Anyone who knows the kinds of community organizations I helped establish in Philadelphia in the 1700s will realize I have a very strong interest in volunteering and doing things for the common good.
So it should come as no surprise that I have learned of an individual here in the 21st century whom I feel deserves some sort of recognition for her work to make America a better place.
It also helps that this woman comes from a part of the country that once tried to name itself “Franklin” (after which Founding Father, I suppose?) and become one of the United States back around 1784. Unfortunately, their plan did not succeed and they eventually became part of Tennessee — which is now known as “the volunteer state.” (That’s two points in her favor.)
The woman of whom I speak is a famous troubador and songwriter, Dolly Parton. And just recently, Ms. Parton traveled to England (my third favorite country, so give her another point) to perform at a very well-attended concert there, in Glastonbury. As many of you do know, she became so well known as the result of her “country” songs, many of which told stories of life around Pigeon Forge, Tennessee (her hometown) and the Smoky Mountains.
Dolly the humanitarian
But, as many do not know, Dolly Parton has also been extremely active through the years, devoting a large part of her earnings to bettering the lives of poor children both in the U.S. and abroad, (another point for Ms. Parton!) much as I did, when I contributed to many philanthropic causes in Philadelphia of the 1700s.
So it should come as no surprise that I have learned of an individual here in the 21st century whom I feel deserves some sort of recognition for her work to make America a better place.
It also helps that this woman comes from a part of the country that once tried to name itself “Franklin” (after which Founding Father, I suppose?) and become one of the United States back around 1784. Unfortunately, their plan did not succeed and they eventually became part of Tennessee — which is now known as “the volunteer state.” (That’s two points in her favor.)
The woman of whom I speak is a famous troubador and songwriter, Dolly Parton. And just recently, Ms. Parton traveled to England (my third favorite country, so give her another point) to perform at a very well-attended concert there, in Glastonbury. As many of you do know, she became so well known as the result of her “country” songs, many of which told stories of life around Pigeon Forge, Tennessee (her hometown) and the Smoky Mountains.
Dolly the humanitarian
But, as many do not know, Dolly Parton has also been extremely active through the years, devoting a large part of her earnings to bettering the lives of poor children both in the U.S. and abroad, (another point for Ms. Parton!) much as I did, when I contributed to many philanthropic causes in Philadelphia of the 1700s.
And the way Dolly Parton does this is through an organization she founded, the Imagination Library of the Dollywood Foundation, whose mission is to foster a love of reading among preschool children by making high quality, age appropriate books available to them, regardless of income. There are branches of her organization all around the country, and beneficiaries of its work in schools and neighborhoods everywhere, wherever there are poor children who need help obtaining books to read.
So, score another point for Ms. Parton, for books and libraries are one of the causes very near and dear to my own heart. I can recall establishing the very first subscription “lending library” in the colonies in the 18th century — the predecessor of today’s public libraries.
The sixth point for Ms. Parton is the fact that her work is responsible for planting the seeds that will improve the chance of success for children in our educational system. Once they have the tools and the teachers who help them learn to read, and a love of books nurtured by these early experiences, it is, in my opinion, a ninety-nine percent probability of their taking these resources with them on a rewarding, fulfilling journey through life.
So, score another point for Ms. Parton, for books and libraries are one of the causes very near and dear to my own heart. I can recall establishing the very first subscription “lending library” in the colonies in the 18th century — the predecessor of today’s public libraries.
The sixth point for Ms. Parton is the fact that her work is responsible for planting the seeds that will improve the chance of success for children in our educational system. Once they have the tools and the teachers who help them learn to read, and a love of books nurtured by these early experiences, it is, in my opinion, a ninety-nine percent probability of their taking these resources with them on a rewarding, fulfilling journey through life.
In addition to her work for children, Dolly has done a lot of good in Tennessee, helping to create jobs for the people in her hometown area, improve the regional economy, and spur investment and development by others. One recent example is her announcement of a major expansion to her “Dollywood” park, which will be devoted to offering a family-friendly place for people to stay and take their vacations. (Seven points!) See the accompanying picture of her and the governor of Tennessee making the announcement last summer, thanks to the photography of a good friend of mine.
And finally, from what I have observed, Dolly also has an incredible sense of humor, which I really appreciate, as one who very much enjoys witticisms and jesting. (Eight points!)
So, for all of these reasons, I feel very strongly that Ms. Dolly Parton deserves to be lifted up as one of the praiseworthy women in this country who has made a significant and positive difference in our world.
Your humble servant,
B.Franklin
And finally, from what I have observed, Dolly also has an incredible sense of humor, which I really appreciate, as one who very much enjoys witticisms and jesting. (Eight points!)
So, for all of these reasons, I feel very strongly that Ms. Dolly Parton deserves to be lifted up as one of the praiseworthy women in this country who has made a significant and positive difference in our world.
Your humble servant,
B.Franklin