News and Updates

Outhouses and portable toiltes have been a big part of the American landscape for a long time, and in some places they do far more than we ever imagined.  Well, Mr. John is in the business of portable toilets, but not quite like this. 

In Anchorage, Alaska they eagerly look forward to the "Fur Rondy Outhouse Race" competititon every year.   The competition is sponsored by the Architectural and Enginering Club of the University of Alaska, and it's a big deal.  People plan months in advance and come from many miles away to participate.  The Club estabslishes strict racing requirements for the outhouses,  This includes the size and width of the sleds that the outhouses sit on, how many people can push or pull the sled, height requriements for the outhouses, and much more.  Aerodynamics are critical, and the team for the local Air Force contingent seems to have an advantage there.  The biggest problem, however, is getting the outhouses to race ahead in a straight line.  Many people work long hours to construct elegant and memorable "racing outhouses,"and they have the added satisfaction of knowing that ther good work is raising money for an even better cause:  Habitat for Humanity.  This is the same charity that Mr. John supports so vigorously, and we feel a special kinship to the event.  

Thousands of people travel long distances to be part of the festivities, and winners in the various categories receive a trophy in their honor, a minature outhouse on sleds, of course.  And the race is no simple matter.  By strict convention, one member of each team has to perch on a toilet seat inside the outhouse during the race, and there is always the risk of tipping over.  Having somebody inside the outhouse provides more traction, the Club leadership notes, and it also adds a sense of realism.  There are qualifyiing heats, and the event itself is a double elimination.  You race until you lose twice. 

Each year the event brings great publicity for Alaska, raises money for Habitat for Humanity, and puts a smile on thousands of faces.   Who knew outhouses could contribute in so many ways?