MICAH JOHNSON, LMP
ROARK PLUMBING INC.

LONG LAKE, MINN. — I am writing to respond to Michael P. Fitzpatrick Jr.'s letter about being an American tradesman ("Young plumber is unlicensed and proud of it," July, pg. 31). The term tradesman implies membership in a trade. Michael is referring to the plumbing trade when using this term. He is using it incorrectly.

To be a tradesman in plumbing would require a plumbing license; that is the membership requirement of the plumbing trade. He stated that he does not have a license; therefore he is not a tradesman.

Further, the term "unlicensed plumber" is an oxymoron. A plumber is licensed. A quick check of any reputable dictionary will show that the terms "licensed" and "quality" have two different meanings. Maybe he should get a license, it couldn't hurt.