Governor Andy Beshear Makes Dolly Parton an Official Kentucky Colonel

One of the highest honors bestowed in the Bluegrass state is the distinction as a Kentucky Colonel. To receive the title, a person must be nominated via application which lists accomplishments including community involvement and service Governor Beshear.

The Honorable Order of the Kentucky Colonels is a non-profit organization that provides support to other non-profits across the state. Local organizations like The Western KY Botanical Garden, Wendell Foster, Opportunity Center, and more received funds this year to continue their good works.

Yesterday, THE Dolly Parton herself met in Lexington with Governor Andy Beshear. Celebrating the fact that her Imagination Library program is now finally available in all 120 counties. She and her huge team of volunteers make sure that all kids signed up for the library are surprised with one free book month from birth to Kindergarten.

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Well, Andy had a very special surprise for her too! He presented her with the top honor and made her an official Kentucky Colonel. Her contributions not just to Kentucky but all over the world definitely make her more than qualified to hold the title.

Dolly was so surprised! She joked that the only Colonel she knew was Colonel Sanders and if she was gonna have to serve in the military it would be like Goldie Hawn in Private Benjamin! She is just the sweetest little thing.

@heraldleader Kentucky has a new colonel! Gov. Andy Beshear bestowed the state’s highest civilian honor to music legend Dolly Parton at a celebration of her Imagination Library. #ky #kentuckycolonel #dollyparton ♬ original sound - HeraldLeader

Governor Beshear also announced that he declared this month Dolly Parton's Imagination Library of Kentucky month. If you are one of those families that receives books, every month is Imagination Library month! If you aren't and want to sign your kiddo up, just click here.

If you want to watch the whole event, here you go!