Knoebel's Cleaning up after Flood

Elysburg, Northumberland County--It was anything but fun and games at Knoebels after a nearby creek nearly washed away this amusement park.

Bonnie Scandle, hand stamp manager, says, "It broke my heart when I saw it. It actually made me nauseous.

Raging rivers wiped out games, rides, and booths and left this summertime staple a muddy mess.

Joe Muscato, spokesperson for Knoebels says, "Buildings were moved. We had to tear out electrical lines. It was just devastation. It's difficult to look at."

This pole shows the flood levels from 1972. Officials say the water was just short, but in other parts of the park the water was even higher and the damage much worse. But at Knoebels, the worst situation brings out the best in people.

Matt Lehman, games operator, says, "I'm excited to be here. This place has done a lot for me so I'm happy to help where I can."

And Matt isn't alone. Hundreds of people came out to clean Knoebels, spending hours and even days muddying through dirt and debris.

Steve Kowalchick, recycling, says, "It's my hometown. I'm from Elysburg, it's nice to come out and help."

Scandal adds, "This is home to us. I've been here 30 years. We're a family."     

Knoebels officials say they've been getting a lot of questions and concerns on their Facebook page, one of the biggest about the status of the eagles.

Officials say the eagles are okay, that part of the park was not flooded.

Also, since the park is only open weekends after Labor Day, officials expect to be re-open Saturday Septmeber 17th...possibly not at full operation.