A Day of Fun, Family and Lasting Memories

Empire Services • August 26, 2026

On Saturday, August 15th, Empire Group employees and their families gathered at Knoebels Amusement Resort in Elysburg, PA, for a day filled with good food, laughter, classic rides, and quality time together. With nearly 100 employees and family members in attendance, this year’s Empire Group Family Fun Day was a wonderful opportunity to step away from the daily routine and enjoy being together.


A Picnic Lunch to Kick Off the Day


Before heading into the park, everyone gathered for a delicious picnic lunch featuring plenty of summertime favorites. A big thank you goes to Russ and Kristi Mountjoy for preparing the meal, providing the food, and manning the grill.


With full plates and plenty of good conversation, it was the perfect way to start the day. Then, it was time to head into the park for roller coasters, train rides, games, and attractions.


Making Memories, One Ride at a Time


Throughout the day, everyone enjoyed all the park had to offer. Some took on the thrills of the rides, while others enjoyed a more leisurely day exploring the park.


Rick and Melissa Dom took a relaxing train ride with their Yorkie-Poo, Ahsoka Tano. Meanwhile, Ellyn Harkin's niece and nephew may have been too small to ride the famous Phoenix wooden coaster, but that didn't stop them from getting in on the fun. They posed for a memorable picture in one of the coaster's cars instead!


This year’s location was especially fitting. Knoebels is celebrating its 100th anniversary. The park traces its roots to 1926, when Henry Knoebel opened a swimming pool, restaurant, and carousel at his farm near Elysburg. Over the past century, Knoebels has grown into a beloved Pennsylvania destination with more than 100 rides and attractions, while maintaining the family-friendly atmosphere that has been part of its story from the beginning.


Celebrating Empire Group's Family Fun Day at a Pennsylvania attraction with a century of family memories behind it was a fitting way to celebrate our own company family, with 70 years of memories and our 10th anniversary at Knoebels.


A Special Thank You


We extend our heartfelt thanks to Todd & Karen O’Neill and Harry & Cathy O’Neill for making this special day possible. Their generosity and thoughtfulness allowed employees and their families to come together and enjoy one another’s company outside of the workplace.


More Than a Day at the Park


This event brought the entire Empire Group together, creating fun memories while enjoying a wonderful lunch, friendship, and a variety of classic rides. It’s just one of the many events the company hosts to celebrate employees and build connections. These moments of joy and community are what make Empire Group feel like a family. We can’t wait until next year’s Family Fun Day!

  • Annual Empire Group Family Fun Day at Knoebels!

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  • Great food and great company!

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  • Having fun (almost) on the Phoenix roller coaster.

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  • Great rides at Knoebels!

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  • A relaxing train ride!

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