Many may have seen the Tiki-hut style shaved ice truck with the name Kona Ice across the side of it at the Malden High School or at other events throughout the area. But do you know that Kona Ice is about more than just selling tasteful nutritional shaved ice?
Kona Ice owners Steve and Casey Williams of Dexter, decided to become part of the Kona Ice team a few years back once they learned what Kona Ice was all about.
“Kona Ice is dedicated to serving phenomenal shaved ice, providing a unique experience, spreading fun, and creating smiles, all while giving back to our community,” said Williams. “We’re mobile, so we can come to you.”
Mr. Williams, who is employed as a signalman for the railroad, is of course a busy man, serving his community in more ways than one through his professional career. Steve’s wife Casey, a fourth grade teacher at Malden Elementary School is also a very busy individual. As an educator, the work is continuous.
But together the Williams’ decided they wanted to do even more. How? They decided to become part of the Kona Ice Truck team, who’s goal is to find ways to give back to the local communities they serve.
“Kona Ice Trucks are all across America and each one may be a little different or unique in its own way,” Williams said. “But we all serve a greater purpose, and that is by giving back through fundraisers or charitable events.”
According to the Kona Ice franchise, it’s Kona Ice trucks give back to their local communities and together each year, more than one-million dollars have gone back into the communities these trucks serve.
“We bring our shaved ice to you, whether it be at fundraising events, sports leagues, festivals, fairs, corporate events, school events, church events, block parties, daycares and preschools,” said Williams. “Or if you have another idea, just ask. “We can easily accommodate over 500 servings per hour.”
Kona Ice is dairy-free, gluten-free, non-GMO, nut free and they even offer sugar-free and dye-free upon request.
“We use Vita-Blend flavorings, which contain 40% less sugar and Vitamins C and D,” he said. “Our product is both delicious and nutritious.”
This year Kona Ice has added a new commodity to its already cool operation. Color changing cups. A portion of each color changing cup sold will go towards adopting a classroom. “So when you buy a Kona Ice color changing cup, you will support a teacher and see a change, figuratively and literally,” he said. “These cups will change colors before your eyes.”
Kona Ice recently announced its franchises are partnering with Adopt A Classroom. They estimate that every teacher spends approximately $600 on classroom supplies each year. So since Kona Ice partners with schools across the country on a daily basis they felt this was a good way to give back.
Tony Lamb, Kona Ice CEO spoke out about the Williams’ wanting to share some information on owners Steve and Casey, and their mobile shaved ice truck, which is often seen in Malden. “Steve and Casey are cruising for a cause in Dexter and the surrounding area,” said Lamb. “The decked out, mobile shaved ice truck features a tiki hut top, self-serve Flavorwave and wild flavors such as pickle and tigers blood.”
Lamb went on to say how the Williams’ have partnered with local school districts such as Malden, to host “Kona Days.”
“This allows administrators to raise money for underfunded programs and initiatives,” Lamb said. “Up to 30-percent of revenue is given back to the schools. “Steve and Casey have the potential to raise thousands of dollars for local schools, youth sports leagues and families in need.”
But with a new year, comes new surprises. “It’s a new year so we are changing up our menu and adding new flavors,” said Mrs. Williams. “New to our already impressive menu, is the new Bahama Mama, which is a blend of orange, pineapple, and coconut to make the perfect tropical punch.”
Williams said other new flavors include: Buttered Beer, which tastes just like the famous Harry Potter frothy drink; a delicious blend of butterscotch and vanilla with a hint of butter. Another new favorite is the Pineapple Sunrise. This refreshing flavor will wake your senses with the tangy and sweet flavors of pineapple.
And last but not least, is Kona’s new Caramel flavor. This new addition tastes just like the smooth creamy caramel candy and is said to pair great with their green apple flavor, giving it the taste similar to a green apple sucker.
If you are looking for a fun cool and yet tasteful way to spice up an event, Kona Ice just may be your answer. To learn more about Kona Ice and how proceeds go back into the community or to schedule an event, visit their website Kona Ice of Northern Bootheel.