www.parkworld-online.com
Park Hoppin’ In association with Park Hoppin’with Susan Storey L
ast month I wrote about Dick Knoebel
and the incredible, lasting legacy he built with his family at their 100-year- old park, Knoebels Amusement Resort.
throughout our industry for quite some time. Then, a little more than a month later, we
learned Dolly Parton had passed away. Around the world, tributes began pouring in to celebrate her remarkable careers in music, film, television production, and philanthropy. While Dolly was known and beloved for all of those things, we also knew her as one of us: a passionate member of the theme park industry. When Dolly announced she was partnering
with the Herschend family to introduce Dollywood to the world, our industry changed forever. The that title fit perfectly. She brought her brand, her reputation, her imagination, and her heart to every corner. Dollywood is something special. It is a generational theme park featuring thrill rides, family rides, live music, entertainment, and delicious Southern-style food. And, of course, we is at the heart of the experience, hotels, dinner shows, a water park, and more complete the many-colored destination story. In mid-August, Dollywood debuted one of the
most ambitious projects in its history. The more than $60 million NightFlight Expedition is the 11th roller coaster. Located in Wildwood Grove, the indoor, one-of-a-kind experience celebrates Although Dolly was not at the grand opening,
adventure that lets you see the mountains the way I always remember them, full of wonder and happens in the mountains after the sun goes The storytelling and theming of the ride
passion for her home state of Tennessee. Along with its rides and experiences,
Dollywood is consistently recognized for its culture and support of its team. The park has park multiple times and has earned the National
Theme Park Award every year since 2022. Earlier this year, Newsweek also named Dollywood Workplace for Entry-Level Employees. Working in this industry can be challenging,
and for a theme park to earn honors like these says a great deal. It shows that the park carrying employees alike. Throughout my career, I have been lucky
times. She spoke at IAAPA, hosted the Golden Ticket Awards, and fully embraced being part of this community. Three years ago, I received the incredible gift of meeting and interviewing her personally. She also graciously signed my book and posed for a photo. When I excitedly called my mom to say I had
As much as I loved every second of those
few moments with her, the first time I saw Dolly remains a pivotal memory. In 2000, she spoke Luncheon. The ticket was a hot commodity, and IAAPA was strict with admission.
manager of Shipwreck Island in Florida, had brought one of his young lifeguard employees, whose dream was to work for Dolly to the IAAPA Expo. When he could not get her a ticket to the luncheon, he gave her his own so she could be in the room with her idol. She sat through asked whether anyone had questions. The young woman immediately raised her hand and declared that her goal was to one day work for Dolly. With barely a pause, Dolly laughed and said,
how quickly the young woman leapt out of her
SEPTEMBER 2026 IAAPA EUROPE ISSUE
seat and confidently walked to the front of the room to hand Dolly her resume. Dolly graciously accepted it and publicly promised to share it with her team.
heartfelt and hopeful.
whether anything had come from that brief, brave exchange. Something had. Dolly had passed the resume to her team, and the lifeguard auditioned to work at the park. She earned a spot performing the following summer. Surrounded by industry leaders and
professionals, Dolly took a few moments to listen to achieving it. She did not hand her the role; the young woman still had to earn it. Dolly helped clear her path and praised her for boldly finding her way in the room in pursuit of her goal. the kindest and strongest examples of servant leadership I have ever encountered.
generations, and they will continue to do so.
of Dollywood Parks & Resorts, told guests: can make memories that last a lifetime, just like she would have wanted. We will carry her dreams forward by continuing to grow, welcoming even more guests, and sharing the warmth and hospitality of which Thank you, Dolly,
for bringing your heart and ideas to our industry. We will always love you.
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