Nishna Productions again operating shaved ice booth

RED OAK — Once again, individuals with disabilities have accepted the challenge of again running a business in Red Oak.

Nishna Productions, Inc. reopened their shaved ice stand, “Shaved Ice Paradise” on June 15. The stand will be in Legion Park, close to Red Oak’s swimming pool.

The stand will offer 30 different flavors of icy treats from now until late August. Hours will be 1-8 p.m. except for extended hours for special events.

On July 4 and for the week of July 14-19, the stand will be open from 10 a.m. — 10 p.m. July 14-19 is the week of Montgomery County Fair and Ragbrai.

In the fall of 2007, Michelle and Bill Billings donated the business to Nishna Productions, Inc. The couple hoped individuals with disabilities would be given a chance to learn a new vocational skill, earn a wage and have increased involvement with others of the community.

Their hopes were realized last year during the successful operation of the shaved ice stand. Fourteen individuals with disabilities and two staff rotated shifts to keep the stand operating.

Dianne Fritz, Red Oak vocational Coordinator for Nishna Productions, Inc., stated that the stand is available for special events and parties. One special flavor is called “Birthday Cake” and for Red Oak sports fans, there’s “Tiger Blood.”

To book the stand, contact Fritz at the Red Oak Work Center, 623-4362.

Nishna Productions, Inc. is a non-profit community rehabilitation agency providing vocational and residential services to people with disabilities in Montgomery and surrounding counties.