Earlier this year, Dolly Parton announced plans to open a water and snow amusement park in Nashville. After much speculation, the iconic entertainer and philanthropist announced today (Sept. 28) that she will no longer be associated with the planned attraction, which was to be in conjunction with the Gaylord Entertainment Co.

"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," said Dolly in a statement. "Governor Haslam, Mayor Dean, and all the folks in government have been great to work with. I really appreciate their support through this process."

Earlier this week, Gaylord Entertainment shareholders agreed to sell the day-to-day operations of the company to Marriott International.

At an August press conference to celebrate the gold-certified live album/DVD, An Evening With Dolly, released by Cracker Barrel Old Country Stores, the singer-songwriter, who will be releasing a new book this fall, called "Dream More," acknowledged that the proposed tourist attraction was "in a holding pattern," adding that she wouldn't put her name on a project "unless it's exactly right for me and everyone else."

Meanwhile, Dollywood, the hugely popular East Tennessee theme park, which also includes the "Splash Country" attraction, Dolly opened 26 years ago, continues to thrive. Next week in Las Vegas, a series of slot machines invoking the names of a couple of the singer's biggest hits will be unveiled. And, now in theatrical release, "Hollywood to Dollywood," the documentary featuring 17 songs by the legendary superstar, will be officially released on DVD Nov. 6.



Dolly Dishes Advice, Talks New DVD

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