Portable Sanitation Association International

ASSOCIATIONINSIGHT Portable Sanitation Association International News BIWEEKLY EDITION MARCH 31, 2021 Page 8 Industry Pioneer: Ed Crafton…continued from page 7 Her experience as an operator was invaluable in her new role as owner of a major manufacturer. Kathy's skills and interests in new technology modernized PolyPortables in terms of customer support, financial controls, and manufacturing efficiencies. According to Steve Finley, "Kathy took the company to the next level as a result of her numerous skills and experience." Her involvement and support of the PSAI was exemplary. She served on the Board of Directors and played a key role during the crucial days of 2012–2013 when the "new PSAI" was born. In January 2013, Kathy sold the company to Jordan- Blanchard Capital and in April 2018, PolyPortables was sold to Satellite Industries. Satellite continues to manufacture several of the PolyPortables models. Final Thoughts This is the third installment in our series of articles profiling industry pioneers. These hard-working mavericks have a common goal—to improve public health through the creation of portable sanitation. These pioneers' contributions were vital to the success of our industry and the PSAI. As we continue to explore the incredible history of our industry and of our Association, we find that these "pioneers" were incredible people of unique vision and of dogged determination. Certainly, Ed Crafton is no exception. His lifelong desire to invent and to explore while maintaining a genuine and authentic commitment to both customers and employees is very commendable. Personal Note and Thank You I had the pleasure of getting to know Ed Crafton at many of our Southeastern Portable Sanitation Association Meetings throughout the years. Unlike the exceptionally large Pumper Shows, these smaller gatherings allowed for more one-on-one time between members. I had the opportunity to see and to experience first-hand his love of people, his love of our industry, and his desire to help others. A special thanks to Cole Publishing and in particular to Jim Kneiszel, for his help in locating the PRO Magazine story (2006) about PolyPortables pets and the story from Pumper Magazine (April 2004) that presented many of the facts about Ed's life. A special thank you to Steve Finley, a great friend as well as a great friend of the PSAI, for his invaluable assistance with this article. v SPECIAL REQUEST: As this series of articles continues in our 50th Anniversary Year and the update of "PSAI Through the Decades" is composed, I (Jeff Wigley) would appreciate any and all: • articles, • photos, • remembrances, or • other information that you could share. Please help the PSAI preserve and publish the amazing history of our industry and our association. To share, please contact me by email or by cell phone at 770-206-0794. THANK YOU! PolyPortable toilets are still manufactured in Dahlonega, Georgia.

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