Dolly Parton
is no longer involved in the development of a water/snow park proposed for
construction near the Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center in Nashville. In making the announcement Friday (Sept.
28), she cited Gaylord Entertainment's recent agreement to sell its hotels brand and management to Marriott International
for $210 million. In January, Parton, Gaylord executives and state and local officials announced plans to build the $50 million
amusement park. In a statement regarding her decision to disassociate herself with the project, Parton said, "Gaylord makes
decisions that they feel are good for their company and their stockholders, and I have to make decisions based on what is
best for me and the Dollywood Company. [Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam, Nashville Mayor Karl Dean] and all the folks in government
have been great to work with. I really appreciate their support through this process. ... I think everyone knows I love Nashville,
and I hope the work we've already done will spark more family entertainment in Nashville."
