Bringing amusement park excitement everywhere it stops, the Kona Ice truck blends entertainment and gourmet frozen treats into an experience unlike any other in the area.
Bringing amusement park excitement everywhere it stops, the Kona Ice truck blends entertainment and gourmet frozen treats into an experience unlike any other in the area.
“When our customers get a glimpse of the decked out truck with its tiki hut top and vibrant colors, the looks on their faces say it all,” said Dennis Mayo, a Big Island resident and entrepreneur shifting good times into overdrive in Hilo and the surrounding areas with the launch of his new Kona Ice truck. “At first they’re amazed, then they just can’t stop smiling.”
Kona Ice’s escape from the ordinary begins as the sounds of tropical calypso music fills the air at each event and group gathering. The fun continues as attendees get their overflowing cups of freshly shaved ice and help themselves to any of the 10 tastes on the truck’s Flavorwave interactive dispensing system, or the additional 20-plus flavors and 500 available combinations.
“It’s an opportunity to enjoy a unique, tropical treat,” Mayo said. “Kids go crazy and we see adults getting just as excited as the young ones. … From start to finish, we engage all their senses.”
Equally as appealing about the launch of Kona Ice of Hawaii County is its philanthropic commitment to the communities it serves. Dennis, his wife Marymalane, and son JJ are continuing Kona Ice’s tradition of donating thousands of dollars each year to area school groups, teams and community organizations. Nationwide, Kona Ice has donated more than $17 million to community-based organizations during the past six years.
“Dennis and his family shares our passion for giving back,” said Tony Lamb, founder and president of Kona Ice, who created the concept. “We want to ingrain Kona Ice into the fabric of the towns where we live, work and have families. Returning a portion of what we earn back to the groups helps ensure that they continue to make a positive impact on the lives of our friends, neighbors and family members.”
Beyond fundraisers, popular spots for Kona Ice stops in East Hawaii include festivals, corporate events and birthday parties. The Mayos’ truck also maintains regular weekday and weekend routes. To learn more, email Mayo at dmayo@kona-ice.com or call 781-7885 or 268-5350.