Bangs Business Association proudly announces Ben and Nona Carnes as the Grand Marshals of the Bangs Lighted Christmas Parade, which will take place on Saturday, December 13, at 6 P.M.

Ben and Nona have been great business leaders in the Bangs community since 1971. Organizers of the parade are proud to honor them for their untiring service to the city.  Ben Carnes and Nona Rippetoe married in June of 1960. One year to the day from their marriage, they welcomed a beautiful daughter, Carmon, then nine years later a wonderful son, B. J.  The following year, 1971, they purchased Rippetoe Pharmacy from Nona’s parents, Mac and Odessa Rippetoe.  They have owned and operated it since that date.

Ben is a graduate of Howard Payne University with a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry.  He furthered his education, graduating from the University of Texas Austin School of Pharmacy.

Ben and Nona have offered many years of soda fountain fun, a variety of gifts and healing medicine for the Bangs community.  They have volunteered many hours to community service, helping those who needed guidance and direction.  In later years they owned and operated Carnes Camp at Lake Brownwood, offering a retreat for many groups.  The Bangs Business Association thanks Ben and Nona for such sacrifices to help others.

Following the parade, the public is invited to gather at the Bangs City Park to enjoy “Christmas in the Park.”  This event is a joint effort of Bangs Business Association , First Baptist Church and  Bangs MDD, to bring you the best of Christmas in one lovely night in Bangs.  Immediately following the parade, the First Baptist Church will present the “Live Nativity,” and following that, Santa and Mrs. Claus will be in the pavilion to visit with the young and young at heart.  Tony Roberts will be taking pictures that evening with Santa.  Homemade hot cocoa, hot cider and homemade sugar cookies will be offered to all.  This holiday event offered to the public free of charge by these local groups.

For more information or questions, please contact LaFreda by calling 325-998-1567.