Disney4me Posted September 3, 2025 Report Posted September 3, 2025 Singer Dolly Parton and a former Universal Orlando executive will be among the new entrants to the IAAPA Hall of Fame, the Orlando-based global attractions association announced Wednesday. Parton was already an international country music star and actress when she bought an interest in the Silver Dollar City attraction in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, in 1986. As part of the deal, the park was renamed Dollywood. “Her vision, investment and heart for her community have helped Dollywood grow into a world-class destination that has inspired other operators around the world, creating joy for millions of guests each year,” IAAPA President and CEO Jakob Wahl said in a video announcing the honorees. Keith James, who had executive roles in the late ’80s and early ’90s at Universal Studios Florida, also will be recognized by IAAPA. At one point, he was the resort’s senior vice president for planning and development in 1990. He subsequently managed production work for Jack Rouse Associates/RWS Global for 30 years. “His creativity, leadership and committment have inspired countless projects and professionsal worldwide,” Wahl said. Inductee Keith James' resume includes RWS Global, Universal Studios Florida experiences. (IAAPA) Other inductees for 2025 are: • Gerardo Arteaga Oehninger, who established Fantasilandia in Chile and expanded Happyland into Peru, Mexico and Colombia. He was one of the first three IAAPA members in Latin America. He died last month at age 81. • Gary S. Wachs, who oversaw the opening of Kings Island, Kings Dominion, and Canada’s Wonderland. • Su Zhigang, founder and chairman of Chimelong Group, an influential developer of Asian attractions. Disney World ready to repaint Cinderella Castle Inductees are selected by a committee of five past global chairmen and the four current regional chairmen for IAAPA, an acronym for the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions. The new honorees will be formally inducted during the IAAPA Legends: A Hall of Fame Celebratory Affair on Nov. 17, ahead of the annual IAAPA Expo at Orange County Convention Center. For tickets and more information, go to IAAPA.org. 100 days of Epic Universe: Rave reviews, long waits, speculation dbevil@orlandosentinel.com View the full article Quote
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