Dolly Celebrates Smokies

Posted by Duane Gordon Sep - 3 - 2009 Comments Off

There were numerous dignitaries on the dais for the 75th anniversary re-dedication of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park on Wednesday on the border of Tennessee and North Carolina, but it was Dolly outshining them all as the anniversary’s international ambassador. Following her performance of “My Mountains, My Home” from her Sha-Kon-O-Hey! musical (the CD from which has raised more than $200,000 for the park, Superintendent Dale Ditmanson announced at the event), Ditmanson noted there are 391 units in the National Park Service and challenged any one of them to “beat that.” Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar opined that Dolly had earned herself the title of permanent ambassador for the park, and many others commented on the perfect fit she brought to the role.
Dolly joked her invitation was not for being present at the FDR dedication herself 69 years ago, but seriously she explained: “Although this year I’m honored to be called the ambassador, I have always been an ambassador for the Smoky Mountains. Because I always will be because I tell everybody how beautiful these mountains are. And no matter where I go if you say something about the Smoky Mountains, even if people have not been here, they just smile because they seem to know about it.” She also commended her uncle Bill Owens for his work to restore the American chestnut tree and noted she would be planting a chestnut tree at Dollywood with him on Friday. After other remarks from additional dignitaries, Dolly closed the ceremony with “Forever Home.” At right, she chats with Acting Director of the National Park Service Dan Welk. Seated next to them are Gov. Phil Bredesen (D-Tenn.) and Gov. Bev Perdue (D-N.C.). At left, she gets tickled at her own joke about talking out of both sides of her mouth like a politician, after correcting herself that she wasn’t talking about any of the politicians there at the event. (Click on the photos for a larger view.) Over coming days, check back here for a video report, audio clips and tons of photos. Footage should soon be available on The Smokies.tv. Check out additional coverage from the Associated Press here, Volunteer TV here, WBIR here, WATE here and The Knoxville News Sentinel here. Images are copyright © 2009 T. Duane Gordon/Dollymania.net. May not be reproduced without prior written consent.