During this two-minute adrenaline rush, riders speed through 4,000 feet of track at 76 miles per hour. We are America's largest free-admission amusement park and offer free parking, free daily entertainment and free picnic facilities. 50 or $13. First off, BUZZBARS! These restraints are unfortunately a rarity now but they allow for much more movement than individual lap bars. Knoebels will also have new safety additions, including more than 150 hand sanitizing stations throughout the park, newly installed sneeze guards at several locations frequented by guests, and. Debit and credit cards have become two of the most popular payment methods. Cost for children ages 2 to 11 is $5. In addition to no admission charge, there is no parking fee. Knoebels Amusement Resort. Knoebels Amusement Resort is America’s largest free-admission amusement park and offers free parking, entertainment and picnic facilities. Obviously Knoebels wins lots of awards for food, so you might know this, but it wasn’t just that it was good, it was unique! The pierogis were delicious,but there were lots of other atypical theme parks foods too. Make it simple and buy general or premium parking by following the Cashless payment instructions on lot signage. Here are three Pennsylvania amusement parks that would be worth the drive for a day of fun with family and friends — just remember to check with venues before you go for the most. Knoebels is the best family park in the world. By Michelle Faverio. Facebook Twitter Email. Buses depart from Pittsburgh Intermodal Station every 4 hours and go to Harrisburg Bus Station; the. It is and has been America’s largest free-admission park for 91 years of operation. With less than two months until opening day, employees. Henry Hartman Knoebel bought it in 1829 for $931. We also bought a couple agate rocks for $4. Knoebels Amusement Park is absolutely free to enter. Employees at Knoebels Amusement Resort stay with the company for 4. Opponents of cashless stores say they discriminate against low-income, homeless and undocumented people. 64 trillion COB in November represents the lowest in 12 months since October 2021. About 90 minutes and absolutely worth it. The park may be closed during the week, but it is open on. Knoebels is known for some unique rides and the Cosmotron is definitely one of those. More Recent Options For Cashless And Contactless Payments. Knoebels opens this Saturday for its 97th season. 333 reviews of Knoebels Amusement Resort "Hands down, the best amusement park ever. For a transaction of $10 or more, the available tipping options are: No Tip, 15%, 20%. Open today: Closed. Phoenix’s response: “can’t slip out of seatbelts if there aren’t any!”. 5 people answered. A trip to Knoebels Amusement Resort would be incomplete without a stop at the fudge and nut shop, Stony Gables. Businesses that fail to comply could face fines of up to $1,000 for a first violation and $1,500. Longwood Gardens. The food really is good. Knoebels’ Haunted Mansion opened in 1973, and has since become the holy grail of dark rides — amusement park rides that are indoors. 2023 Season Dates: Mon 7/10, Tue 7/11, Thu 7/13, Fri 7/14. A customary donation is a One Night Stay at the Hotel. In a cashless society, you can’t spend or save paper dollars, because they aren’t accepted as payment. Knoebels has complimentary Wi-Fi available virtually everywhere in the park. Directions to Knoebels via I-80 West: Exit on one of the three off-ramps, 232, 236, or 241, pass over the bridge, and head south onto PA 487 for 6 miles. 56% of Knoebels Amusement Resort employees are women, while 44% are men. 3. Last year, Knoebels had just over 1,500 employees, which was 300 short of what it needed to staff the park. 391 Knoebels Blvd, Elysburg, PA 17824-7127. 07%), and Senegal (40. "We look forward to it every year. 99 - more than 60% off - until midnight tonight, Sunday, Nov. It is and has been America's largest free-admission park for 90 years of operation. The Bayern Kurve will be coming to the park sometime during the 2023 season, the pa… Works weekends in the pre- and post-season and 5 days a week over the summer. 95 for all ages until May 31, with ages 3 and under still able to enter the park for free. Several destinations just a short drive from Northeast Pennsylvania are boosting spirits and kicking off the warmer weather with events, activities and amusements for the whole family. The lake and stream are lovely. This meant that the cabin had a kitchen, bathroom, livingroom area with two sets of bunk beds, small loft that slept two, and a bedroom with double bed. The park has large roller coasters, smaller rides, entertainment, and other attractions that you have to pay for. Five in six payments now involve no notes or coins, compared with half of all transactions a decade ago. There is also no fee to convert cash onto a card. Knoebels is home to perhaps the most well-known wooden coaster relocation of all-time with Phoenix. It is not illegal to refuse cash as a form of payment in most states and cities in the U.S., and going cashless helps these businesses eliminate the costs of handling and transporting cash. But do these savings come at the cost of. The PowerSurge has been. If it’s a really empty day, then I might go for the wrist band. Tappit signed £ 20 million worth of new deals in the last two months, more than in any other period. The park is also home to the Knoebels Museum of Oddities. Purchase your tickets or season passes now! Admission to the park – it’s free! An early entrance to Knoebels, which opened in 1926. . After May 31, one-day regular admission tickets go up to $76. Cash hardly needs an introduction, as it’s been with us for decades and even centuries. Knoebels’ Giant Crystal Pool is open 11 a. In a 2021 survey, 85% of sellers who accept cash and use the online payment processing service Square said they never plan to stop taking cash, according to Shelle Santana, an assistant professor at Harvard Business School who has been analyzing Square transaction data. $350 for a. . businesses have found ways — some more helpful than others — around the cash question, and it's still unclear if they'll have to change their policies. The pool area includes watersides, diving boards and a play area for young children. 25% OFF Rides. Posted by Knoebels Amusement Resort on Wednesday, July 25, 2018. S. Knoebels EMS 391 Knoebels Blvd. The history of the mining industry and the difficult lives the workers had to endure, it was an enlightening exploration into another era. • You must provide your own tablecloths, paper products, serving utensils, etc. None of this (except maybe the occasional but manageable line) is the case at Knoebels. Businesses are trying to find ways to attract and retain workers as the pandemic winds down. However, i do feel they should look more into the employees they hire. If you’re unable to use the ride-all-day pass during our new Scout Days, you can. Sweden’s largest trade union, Kommunal, says it is still pushing for all public buses to operate cash free to reduce threats faced by drivers. Wednesday, August 29, 2007 10:02 AM. If you're with a group, consider combining your purchase. 7. This wooden coaster was built in 1947 for an amusement park in Texas and brought to Pennsylvania. The food really is good. The All-Tackle record for largemouth bass is the most sought after game fish record in the world. Any Day Admission Ticket for Ages 3+. Guests headed to Knoebels Amusement Resort this fall may be able to enjoy a spin on a new ride to the park. 95. Team K Discounts. Our focus areas are children and families, education, conservation and the environment. G. 2,514 Reviews. 2. Cashless coffee shops, restaurants, and convenience stores have popped up across the country. !) After seeing a program on the Travel Channel ("The Ten Best Amusement Parks in the U. Some people are complaining on a news article about Hershey going cashless. New York’s cash mandate seeded an epic battle between city regulators and Van Leeuwen, a chain of ice cream shops known for $6. It’s always a tradition to ride the Phoenix, which is consistently ranked one of the best wooden roller coasters. I have been in contact with park management who will be investigating and retraining employees to prevent unnecessary tragedies. Faust had conducted annual performance evaluations of Mr. Jon Prior. This set of corporate parks is the largest in the world and with attractions that feature beloved films, it's no surprise that kids and adults alike are excited for. Request a Donation! The Cartoon Network Hotel takes pride in our support of local nonprofit organizations and schools. Join us as we head to the second park of our 2023 USA Road Trip, Knoebels Amusement Resort located in Pennsylvania! This historic amusement park is home to 6. The Glass House is one of the bigger ones and ended up being just over $1200 for the week. George Perry has held this prestigious title for nearly 83 years, since he pulled his massive 22-pound, 4-ounce fish from Montgomery Lake, Georgia on June 2, 1932. The park is celebrating the attraction’s 50th birthday this year. S. Join Us for A Chris-Mouse Carol. Among other famous attractions, Lake Compounce is home to Boulder Dash, which has. m. Yes! Knoebels is America’s largest free-admission amusement park and also offers free parking, free daily entertainment and free picnic facilities. Knoebels Grove campground is a place of solace and simplicity, a respite from the complexities of modern life. Free Picnic Facilities. Christmastime in Pennsylvania just might be the most magical, awe-inspiring time of the year. There was flooding in some spots, along with downed trees and power lines. Phoenix, as it's now known, routinely ranks among. Contactless payment refers to an electronic payment, covering everything from credit and debit card payments (not requiring a PIN or signature) to digital wallets, virtual cards, mobile payment apps, and IC card payments. Personal finance correspondent, BBC News. Knoebels Amusement Resort is a family-owned and operated amusement park, picnic grove, and campground in Elysburg, Pennsylvania. ELYSBURG, NORTHUMBERLAND COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — Knoebels Amusement Resort has announced its opening date for 2022. On Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from October 11 – 27, the park opens its doors to witches, ghosts and goblins of all shapes. #1 of 7 things to do in Elysburg. Take note, while the park usually opens at noon, some weekdays, it opens at 10 a. m. Opened in 1926, it is United. The. Knoebels will also have new safety additions, including more than 150 hand sanitizing stations throughout the park, newly installed sneeze guards at several locations frequented by guests, and. These houses are located about 300 ft behind the park (Knoebels has no fence). While at the park, you can take a dip in its 900,000 gallon Crystal Pool filled with refreshing mountain stream water. Spent a day there with my 2 children, ages 3 & 9. , Milton, Pa 17847; Mount Carmel Area Rescue Squad QRS PO Box 372 Mount Carmel, Pa 17851. EXTRA $560. 879°N 76. Knoebels Amusement Resort in Elysburg, Pennsylvania, is the largest admission-free amusement park in the country. Show more. Family-friendly. Henry Knoebel, Dick’s grandfather, officially opened Knoebels on July 4, 1926. In a timespan between 1980 and 2000, the Hard Luck Bears have been. New York City will also join other cities in requiring businesses to accept cash starting Nov. We take pride in being not only a place the whole family can enjoy, but also a place for families with any budget! Knoebels drive through Christmas light experience! Over 2 miles of holiday cheer takes you down a winding path dazzled with twinkling lights, 500 illuminated pieces and several custom Knoebels-themed displays. The park straddles two counties: Northumberland, and Columbia Counties. Failing to make a toll payments after getting in invoice. Visit for the day, a special event, family dining, or a whole season of fun. !) After seeing a program on the Travel Channel ("The Ten Best Amusement Parks in the U. Yes, Knoebels Amusement Resort is free. The PowerSurge has been temporarily removed from its spot in the park while Knoebels works with the manufacturer to build a new version. Yet it’s unclear how many U. ) Mr. Most rides do not permit loose articles. Rides and attractions may close due to refurbishing, capacity, weather or special events. It straddles the borders of Northumberland and Columbia counties near the town of Ashland. Snap photos with Santa, indulge in seasonal goodies, and explore this Christmas village, one of the best Christmas light displays in Pennsylvania. Pool. Elysburg is a census-designated place (CDP) in Ralpho Township, Northumberland County, Pennsylvania, United States. QRS 1325 Boyles Run Road Sunbury, Pa 17801; Milton Fire Dept. 12 lucky winners will receive a behind-the-scenes tour of Knoebels Haunted Mansion on Sunday, April 30, 2023, at 10:30AM. This park still has Free Parking & Free Admission to the park, but charges a reasonable fee to enter the pool area. One major advantage of going cashless is a significant reduction in crime. Here is the 2023 calendar for Knoebels Amusement Resort in Elysburg. Knoebels, no question. • You may bring your own food. Opening weekend at the resort is April 29. It is a smooth ride, so much fun. The trees provide a natural canopy, shielding campers from the. Love it! Date of experience: May 2015. The showers are always hot, the bathrooms are clean. Knoebels Amusement Resort in Elysburg, Pennsylvania, is held in high esteem by ride geeks for its dedication to rescuing great attractions once thought lost. Parts of Northumberland County had almost 8 inches of rain. • Grilling of any kind is not permitted but there are outlets and counter space for crockpots. m. Good any day Holiday Lights tickets are only $14. If you want a great view of the park take a rider on the Skyway, it is a chair lift ride. The 105-year-old Grand Carousel was purchased by the park in 1941, and has received the top award every year since its inception. The recent weather has also forced Hersheypark to close twice this week. Warmer weather means a return to outdoor activities - including the all-ages fun of attractions, games, and rides at amusement parks. Phoenix is an excellent coaster by itself but what elevates it into a candidate for best wooden coaster is Knoebels itself and how they present it. The UK has been moving towards a cashless economy for some time, with ATM usage declining at about 6% to 10% a year. What does Knobel mean? Information and translations of Knobel in the most comprehensive dictionary. Request a form from the Park Office. Your final ride charge can look different from the estimated cost any time you: Delay requesting the ride (I. While at the park, enjoy over 60 rides, award-winning food, swimming at Crystal Pool, challenging games, gift shops, and Knoebels Three Ponds Golf Club, then stay overnight at one of two campgrounds. Minutes from I-84, exit 31 two miles north on Route 229 and follow the signs. The park and its rides have won awards from organizations such as. For those that do enjoy rides (and if you’re reading this, you probably do), there are a ton of great Knoebels’ rides you’re sure to enjoy. It doesn’t mean mostly cashless and you can still use a ‘wee bit of cash here & there,’” reads a Facebook post made July 5 by user Kevin Monroe. A cashless society is one where all physical money (cash and coins) is totally replaced by a digital currency. He ended up collapsing, even after other employees told management about it. 1 Thank debdaley . Admission and parking are free. Knoebels is a family-owned amusement park in Pennsylvania that has been operating since 1926. When smart tip is turned on, transactions of less than $10 offer four tipping options: No Tip, $1, $2 or $3. The Knoebels folks like to tackle projects in-house and designed and built the Haunted Mansion, a classic dark ride that opened to great acclaim in 1973 (and not to be confused with Disney’s Haunted. Pick out one of the stunning hand-carved horses and try to catch the brass ring!The Crystal Pool at Knoebels is a massive swimming pool that is perfect for beating the summer heat. amusement parks and has won the title 18 other times. When people hear the word theme park one of the first images and associations that comes up is Disneyland. Other attractions include a swimming pool, an arcade, and a variety of food stands. There is no parking charge at Knoebels. Ten million people would struggle to cope in a cashless society even though only 17% of payments are now made with notes and coins, a report has found. ") that included Knoebels as one of the featured "Top Ten", the family was itching to go. However, cashless health insurance can be availed only at. The main roller coasters are the Phoenix (which is the best wooden roller coaster in the world in my opinion) which has lots of airtime and is such fun, when you get off all you want to do is get on again and is such a clasic coaster it must be ridden and often. This not only saves money, but saves time as you pull in and park – no delay waiting for each car to fork over some cash. Pretty good change of pace steel coaster! And a cool “dark” coaster. Water & Amusement Parks, Theme Parks. Several destinations just a short drive from Northeast Pennsylvania are boosting spirits and kicking off the warmer weather with events, activities and amusements for the. Knoebels Amusement Resort. On our recent trip through Pennsylvania, it became a. Dutch Wonderland, PA theme park tickets are a great way to experience royal fun for a day or all year long. Some people do like working there, but as my tennager can attest to that is not the case Severely dehydrated and asking for a break to rehydrate he was denied. Bay Beach Amusement Park: Open ( 2022 operating calendar) Beech Bend Amusement Park: Open ( 2022 operating calendar) Belmont Park: Open ( 2022 operating calendar) Blue Bayou & Dixie Landin’: Water park opens May 29, 2022 ( 2022 operating calendar) Busch Gardens Tampa: Open ( 2022 operating calendar) Busch Gardens. Knoebels is the reigning "best food" winner from 2022 for all U. Ages can find something to do- from sitting in the shade to riding thrill rides. Everything at Knoebels is of high quality and is an enjoyable experience. The area's biggest attraction is Knoebels Amusement Resort, which is known for having three wooden roller coasters and free admission. Knoebels is expected to open its new ride, Bayern Kurve later this season. $49. the cabin was nice, and had a clean bathroom. Answered September 13, 2023 - Ride Operator - Elysburg, PA. At first. 5. General admission is $7. C. First of all, the people who do not want to ride anything can come in for , the people who just want to. — The fun, food, and fantasy at Knoebels Amusement Resort were cut short last year because of the pandemic. The resort offers a variety of activities for families to enjoy, including an amusement park with over 50 rides, the Crystal Pool with four slides and a kiddie play area, an 18-hole golf course, and more. We are America's largest free-admission amusement park and offer free parking, free daily entertainment and free picnic facilities. On the plus side the price is great and it seems like you can take in a cooler. ELYSBURG, Pa. Compete for the highest score featuring blasters in this haunted house. Knoebels Amusement Resort is a family-owned and operated amusement park, picnic grove, and campground in Elysburg, Pennsylvania. Knoebels Amusement Resort is big on family and easy on the wallet. Opening weekend at the resort is April 29. In 2007, cash was being used in 69 per cent of transactions. This is Knoebels Amusement Resort. Knoebels Campground offers some sites with wooden platforms for tents. The main portion of the light display is located within Knoebel’s campground, which is accessed by driving across the incredibly. Employee Reviews. All 800 campsites are booked. incentives. Knoebels Amusement Resort is a 45-acre, dog-friendly amusement park. Free Parking. The park says. Credit card rewards can be a great way to earn bonuses from shopping. We also special events, amusement park classics, live shows and not-your-average-theme-park dining. The staff are uniformly friendly and helpful. BRIAN FULTON/STAFF PHOTO Knoebels Amusement Resort launched “Joy Through the Grove,” a drive-thru Christmas light experience. As a Knoebels Team Member, you are eligible to enjoy extra privileges around the resort by showing your Knoebels ID Badge. Our focus areas are children and families, education, conservation and the environment. " These are both correct ways to say it, but the first one is more common. Take the form to your supervisor for approval. Knoebels Amusement Resort is a family-owned and operated amusement park, picnic grove, and campground in Elysburg, Pennsylvania. We drove through Minersville, a town of 4,000 or so. With roughly 6% of the country’s GDP being e-commerce spending and more than 100 transactions on average per card every year, South Korea is well on its way to remaining a top-three cashless country by 2022. Buy NowKnoebels has more than 60 rides including bumper cars, roller coasters, antique cars, the galleon, giant flume, giant wheel, grand carousel, haunted mansion, impulse and the Italian trapeze. In partnership with Knoebels Amusement Resort, the Dark Attraction and Funhouse Enthusiasts is conducting this online raffle benefitting Give Kids the World. 15 years ago. Knoebels adding a new ride to its list, ‘The Tornado. Working at Knoebels in the Alamo is a fun and productive place to work. 2021 Earnings: $7560. Under Dick’s leadership, the park introduced rides like the Phoenix, the Skloosh, the Twister and the Flying Turns. ") that included Knoebels as one of the featured "Top Ten", the family was itching to go. Go early because it tends to get crowded later on. Knoebels’ Phoenix is the world’s second best wooden roller coaster. Questions or concerns about the accessibility of our website or need any assistance accessing any of the information you would expect to find on our site, please contact us at (610) 395-3724. We do this because it's cheaper and much cooler during that time. Headquartered at Merry-Go-Round picnic grove. Opened in 1926, it is. Guests 2 and Under are Free. The new global payments ecosystem, including both physical cash as well as mobile wallets, is the result of the convergence of three large and powerful industries: telecommunications, banking. #1 of 7 things to do in Elysburg. Learn More about Dutch Winter Wonderland. 879784; -76. “Our team is dedicated to meticulously maintaining every inch of Phoenix’s 3,200. Tips. This is Knoebels Amusement Resort. ) While newer, more high-tech rides are being added (can’t wait to see what the bobsled-like Flying. Knoebels Amusement Resort (/kəˈnoʊbəlz/) is a family-owned and operated amusement park, picnic grove, and campground in Elysburg, Pennsylvania. Riders under 46" must ride with a responsible person. Check out these yellow wristbands. 800-487-4386. ECV’s may be reserved in advance by calling the Rental Center at 1-800-487-4386. The first part of the display features lit rides and buildings. Many modern amusement parks charge hundreds of dollars a ticket for the privilege of walking through the gate, but Knoebels is different. Fun, Food, and Fantasy. 5. It grew out of a Knoebel program of kindness started decades ago, an "employee appreciation day" during which the POP sessions were actually split apart by an hour's pause, when all rides. The most common way is to say it like "kuh-nuh-buhls. It started as a swimming hole and picnic area, and gradually added rides and attractions over the years. Driving there for the first time, it wouldn’t be. Further reflecting the impact of the CBN. The population was 2,194 at the 2010 census. The park features over 60 rides, three wooden roller coasters, one steel coaster, a 1913 carousel, and a merry-go-round. Adventure. Knoebels is home to the world’s only wooden bobsled coaster. 5. 74 votes, 20 comments. Pros. Opened in 1926, it is Americ. com discount codes. 96%). Armed with ghost blasters, guests travel by buggy through an elaborate eight-room estate and are given the opportunity to compete with others in the vehicle by targeting unwanted spirits. . The average employee at. 9. (WHTM) — A fan-favorite Pennsylvania amusement park is getting ready to open on Saturday, April 29. The first is a mining museum that pairs well with both central. We booked a cabin that was an "Eagle's Roost" cabin. The amusement resort also will give employees and new hir…A spokesperson for Knoebels Amusement Resort says Memorial Day Weekend is one of the park's busiest weekends. After 40 years Cesari’s Pizza is turning off its ovens for good at the park, which is introducing a new pizza recipe in time for. 60 - $2. It is and has been America's largest free-admission park for 90 years of operation. In order to provide a safe, appropriate and fun experience for all, we've implemented a few rules and regulations regarding behavior, dress, safety, photography, solicitation and more. 9% of Knoebels Amusement Resort employees are Black or African American. Black Friday/Cyber Monday Special on All-Day Fun Passes - Get Four (4) 2024 All-Day Fun Passes for just $120 (Available Online Only). (PTC) double out and back. The new global payments ecosystem, including both physical cash as well as mobile wallets, is the result of the convergence of three large and powerful industries: telecommunications, banking. Experience the twists and turns of. Knoebels is a great place to make family memories. Knoebels Amusement Park is absolutely free to enter. to 10 p. The Bayern Kurve will be coming to the park sometime during the 2023 season, the pa…ELYSBURG, Pa. One of my favorite rides is the wooden coaster- The Phoenix. Its history goes back a century, to a time when locals used to swim in the natural pool where a creek ran through Henry Knoebel’s sawmill and charcoal business. In this video, we explain the history of the park, as well as its iconic and retro. Hours. S. Knoebels Amusement Resort, also known as Knoebels Grove or just plain Knoebels, is located outside of the tiny town of Elysburg, Pennsylvania. Other countries that are less than keen on going cashless include Belgium (47. Posted by Knoebels Amusement Resort on Wednesday, July 25, 2018. Davis in the years 2002, 2003, 2005, 2006, and 2007. Purchase your tickets or season passes now!According to the latest annual Global Payments Report by fintech company FIS, Australia will be mostly cashless within a few years, with the research projecting only around 2 per cent of. When renting, a drivers license is required as a security deposit. Knoebels is the largest free admission amusement park in the United States and it's one of my favorite amusement parks in the world. Open today: Closed. Cars lined up for hours to experience the event, and the park now feels it is here to stay. Free admission, free parking, freedom to bring your own food. 4. They are rented weekends in April, May and September. As we walked back to our vehicle and commenced our two-hour-plus drive, we realized we wanted more. Opened in 1926, it is America's largest free-admission park. Knoebels 2023! We are here at Knoebels Amusement Park in Elysburg, Pennsylvania for the VERY FIRST TIME. Haha sick days thats funny. Directions. Hutt introduced a motion last week to ban cashless retail businesses in Los Angeles. 5 hours northwest of Philadelphia. . Knoebels opens. . 7 miles from Knoebels Amusement Resort) Knights Inn Paxinos Elysburg is located in Paxinos, 4. “Sixteen cars lined up front to back hold two passengers each,” Yutko. 3. Look closely and you'll find portraits of several Knoebel family members. 61 Salaries (for 37 job titles) • Updated Oct 29, 2023. The pool area includes. 9 people answered. Back in December 2008, we (collectively) withdrew more than $13. Other attractions include a swimming pool, an arcade, and a variety of food stands. To ensure donation items are mailed in time for the event, we ask that all requests be made 60 days or more before your event date. — Here is the 2023 calendar for Knoebels Amusement Resort in Elysburg. Knoebels anticipates it will have 2,023 staff members this year. (WHTM) — Knoebels Amusement Resort announced that their famous wooden roller coaster, Phoenix, was named “Best Wooden Roller Coaster” for a fourth time by Amusement. It is and has been America's largest free-admission park for 90 years of operation. ago. A place the whole family can enjoy with over 60 rides, award winning food, swimming, games, and gift shops. Knoebels’ Phoenix was named the #1 wooden roller coaster in the world for the fourth consecutive year.