Tom Shafer receives Gene Schultz Community Service Award; Gregg Young Automotive Group named Business of the Year OTTUMWA, Iowa (October 16, 2026) – Greater Ottumwa Partners in Progress (GOPIP) celebrated outstanding community leadership, volunteerism, and business excellence during its Annual Banquet on Thursday, October 15. Among the evening's highlights were the presentation of two prestigious awards recognizing individuals and organizations making a lasting impact on the

OTTUMWA, Iowa, September 28, 2026 – Greater Ottumwa Partners in Progress (GOPIP) is pleased to announce the addition of Emma Paxton as the organization’s new Investor & Events Coordinator. Paxton brings a strong background in relationship building, community engagement, economic development and event planning to the position. Most recently, she served as a Key Account Manager with Alliant Energy, where she worked closely with communities, chambers of commerce and economic dev

OTTUMWA, IA, August 31, 2026 — Greater Ottumwa Partners in Progress (“GOPIP”) is excited to announce that they will be sponsoring candidate debates for the 2026 election cycle for the following offices: Wapello County Supervisors, Iowa Senate District 13, and Iowa House of Representatives Districts 25 and 26. GOPIP will be working in partnership with The Ottumwa Courier and Ottumwa Radio Group, who will act as dual moderators for all debates. Additionally, the Ottumwa Comm

🎬 CALL FOR ENTRIES IS NOW OPEN! 🎥 Filmmakers, it’s your time to shine! The Ottumwa International Film Festival is now accepting submissions, and we’re looking for compelling stories, creative voices, and unforgettable films to bring to the big screen in Ottumwa. Whether you’re an emerging filmmaker or an experienced storyteller, we want to see what you’ve created. Submit your work for the opportunity to be part of a celebration of film, creativity, and storytelling right he

🏆 BUSINESS OF THE YEAR NOMINATIONS ARE OPEN! Do you know a GOPIP investor business that deserves to be recognized for the difference they’re making in our community? The GOPIP Business of the Year Award celebrates a member business that stands out through community leadership, involvement with GOPIP, a strong workplace culture, innovation, growth, and meaningful accomplishments over the past year. Now is your chance to help recognize the businesses that are helping make Ottu

🏆 NOMINATIONS ARE NOW OPEN! Who comes to mind when you think of someone who truly makes a difference in Ottumwa? The Gene Schultz Community Service Award recognizes an individual whose dedication, volunteer service, and commitment to our community reflect the spirit of giving back that Gene Schultz exemplified. Maybe they’re the person who is always willing to lend a hand, works quietly behind the scenes, brings people together, or simply goes above and beyond to make Ottumw