Dolly helps flood effort

"So many of the folks from Nashville come to the Smokies to vacation; over the last 25 years, they have helped Dollywood, Dixie Stampede and Dollywood's Splash Country and this entire vacation area grow," Parton added. "That's why it's our turn to help."

Parton will make several special appearances at various theaters and locations throughout Dollywood and at Dixie Stampede to greet guests who visit for the weekend event. "I grew up in the Smokies in east Tennessee, which was my first home. I moved to Nashville 46 years ago, and that is my home now," Parton said. "I have family and friends in both places, and when one place hurts; I think it is just right for the other to help. On May 22 and 23, I'm having my Dollywood and Dixie Stampede companies help me host my Dolly Helps Nashville weekend."

"The net proceeds from the admission of the guests to Dollywood and my Dixie Stampede in Pigeon Forge will go to a special fund to assist Nashville flood victims. We're especially going to concentrate on those folks who lost their homes and personal possessions in this terrible flood."

Davidson and three surrounding counties were declared federal disaster areas after record-breaking rainfall on May 1 and 2 devastated the area and destroyed homes and businesses.

Parton is calling on other east Tennessee businesses and attractions to show their support as well. "I am challenging other businesses in Pigeon Forge, Sevierville and Gatlinburg to make this a destination-wide effort."

Parton also issued a plea to her fans to help the fundraising effort reach its full potential. "I want all of my fans worldwide to come to Dollywood the weekend of May 22 and 23," Parton said. "If you can't be there in person, then I hope you'll donate to flood victims through the Dollywood Foundation online at www.dollyparton.com."