The FBI is interested in Dolly Parton, but it’s for a good reason.
The bureau honored the country music icon for her work helping families affected by 2016’s devastating wildfires in the Great Smoky Mountains.
Just months after the fires were extinguished, Parton made good on her promise to help the residents of Sevier County, Tennessee, her birthplace and where her theme park, Dollywood, is.
» Grand Ole Opry to celebrate Dolly Parton's 50 years of membership with Dolly Week
Parton's My People Fund "issued monthly checks to 921 residents affected by the fire," the Knoxville News-Sentinel reported. The newspaper article went on to say that "people left homeless by the fire can get $1,000 cash per month for six months." The fires killed 14 people, and damaged or destroyed more than 2,400 structures, according to the newspaper.
For her efforts, FBI Director Christopher Wray, who is from Georgia, presented Parton with the 2018 Director's Community Leadership Award, which was accepted on the singer's behalf by David Dotson, the CEO of the Dollywood Foundation, CNN reported.
» Dolly Parton donates $200K to east Tennessee fire departments
» Dolly Parton makes good on her promise to the Tennessee fire victims
Parton recorded a video to thank the FBI, saying it was “an honor for me to be recognized by the FBI, because there’s no higher calling than your mission to protect and serve us. And to my fellow recipients, thank you for all you do for our communities. Your work inspires all of us.”
But the good news doesn’t end there.
The eight-time Grammy Award winner announced on her website she has partnered with IMG to create a lifestyle brand will offer "everything from fashion and jewelry to homeware and accessories."
“I am excited to be working with IMG on a global scale to give my fans products that they will cherish for years to come. You might even see my mug on a mug!” she said.
» Superstar musicians pay tribute to Dolly Parton
» Dolly Parton announces $37M Dollywood expansion to open in 2019
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