9 to 5

By Patti Parish-Kaminski, Publisher

Celebrating 9 to 5 doing Dolly – and gearing up for a Dolly Christmas to boot!

I did it, and I did it loud and proud, just as she would have done it.  September 25, or 9 to 5 as it will forever more be referred to, was a tribute day to the one and only, the original, the iconic Dolly Parton.  And I jumped on that train quicker than a hobo trying to get out of town.

I donned my “What Would Dolly Do” t-shirt with pink jeans and all of the coat of many colors rhinestones I could pile on without toppling over.  Of course, I did not have the extra pounds of frontal flesh that Ms. Dolly did, but I represented, nonetheless.

I personally think as God-fearing, Dolly-loving Americans that we should declare on a national basis September 25 as “9 to 5 Dolly Parton Day.”  I mean we have some obscure holidays.  Why not honor an American treasure with her own holiday?

Honestly porch sitters, September 19 is “Talk Like a Pirate Day.”  Arrr and all that.

January 27 has been designated “Bubble Wrap Appreciation Day.”  Does an inanimate object really need to be appreciated?  Is it because popping it is so satisfying?

February 11 is “Extraterrestrial Culture Day.”  I, for one, didn’t realize ET had his own culture.

“National No Housework Day” is April 9.  I believe I could get behind that.

July 29 is “National Lipstick Day.”  Really?  Every day in my world is “National Lipstick Day.”  Only the shades differ.

“Woody Woodpecker Day” is April 27, celebrating the zany, animated bird known for his distinctive laugh and silly antics. Okay, if Woody has a day, Dolly should be an easy ask.

I did a deep dive into exactly what has to happen in order for a national holiday to be declared.  Turns out, it’s not that difficult.

Only Congress has the authority to declare a federal holiday.  Dolly’s deeds were nationwide helping people, especially children all across these United States, so I’m thinking federal fits.  Check that off.

A member of Congress then introduces a bill specifying the date, name, and purpose of the holiday.  Nine-Two-Five Dolly Parton Appreciation Day in recognition of the American icon and role model’s selfless giving to those in need and to children’s literary education.  Y’all remember her giving to folks who had lost everything in fires, to employing hundreds of Tennesseans at Dollywood and assisting with their educational expenses, and then there’s Dolly’s Imagination Library. Done and done.

Next there’s a committee review and then a vote on the floor.  Now who is going to vote “no” to Dolly Day?  Someone who does not want to get re-elected.

After passing the House and Senate, the President signs off on the bill making it a law.  Now I know many folks feel a certain kinda way about President Trump, but can you honestly imagine him not honoring a blonde bombshell?  Just sayin’.

Believe I’ll be calling my congressman this week to try to get this ball rollin’ for next year.  I suggest y’all do the same.  And I’m decking the halls for a Dolly Christmas keeping the love and light shining bright!  Y’all know it will be pink.  See y’all next week – on the porch!


Patti Parish-Kaminski

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