News Archive

The perfect event to ring in the holiday season, featuring ice skating, family fun, scores of local vendors, and activities, is just around the corner in Ottumwa, Iowa. Greater Ottumwa Partners in Progress (GOPIP) is thrilled to promote the first annual Ottumwa WinterFest: Ice, Lights and Local Delights! From Monday...Continue Reading

Staff at the Meet Ottumwa Visitor Center consistently answer a common question from travelers looking to explore their southeast Iowa community: “What’s up with the pig mannequin in the suit and top hat?”Mr. Ham is the pig in question, mascot of the former John Morrell and Co. Meat Packing Plant,...Continue Reading

Economic Development Organizations (EDOs) drive community growth, support businesses, and attract new opportunities. Greater Ottumwa Partners in Progress is at the forefront of these efforts, providing essential business resources and fostering economic expansion in Ottumwa, Iowa. At the heart of GOPIP's initiatives is Diana Dominguez, Office Associate, who ensures local...Continue Reading

Revitalizing Ottumwa’s West End: West End Ignited Fuels Community PrideEnhancing the West End Through Innovation and CollaborationIn Ottumwa, Iowa, the West End is transforming into a vibrant and welcoming gateway to the community, thanks to the West End Ignited initiative. Spearheaded by the Greater Ottumwa Partners in Progress and the Legacy...Continue Reading

The Church Street Beautification Program, led by Greater Ottumwa Partners in Progress, is set to rejuvenate one of the city’s historic but overlooked areas. As Ottumwa’s Main Street has experienced new life with renovated storefronts, Church Street is now poised for a similar transformation, aiming to highlight its unique character...Continue Reading

Honoring Heritage and FamilyOn November 2, 2024, Greater Ottumwa Partners in Progress, in collaboration with our local League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), is hosting its first annual Day of the Dead (or Día de los Muertos) celebration. This vibrant Mexican tradition, rooted in the belief that the spirits...Continue Reading

Workforce Development Month offers the perfect backdrop to highlight the incredible work of organizations like iJAG (Iowa Jobs for America's Graduates), especially in places like Ottumwa, Iowa, where they're making strides in connecting students with their future careers. iJAG is the only statewide organization recognized by the Iowa Department of...Continue Reading

Supporting Veterans Through EmploymentHome Base Iowa significantly impacts Ottumwa by providing veterans with the resources and support they need to transition smoothly into civilian life. This statewide program connects veterans with meaningful job opportunities tailored to their skills and experiences, helping them start new life chapters. Shea Greiner, Director of...Continue Reading

As the days lengthen and the sun warms, Ottumwa bursts into bloom with a vibrant calendar of summer events! From electrifying live music and community gatherings to thrilling rodeos and artistic expressions, there's something for everyone to enjoy in Ottumwa this season. Get ready to soak up the sunshine, connect...Continue Reading

Ottumwa, Iowa, known for its rich history and diverse community, is gearing up for its annual Juneteenth celebration. This significant event commemorates the end of slavery in the United States and honors the cultural contributions of African Americans. Juneteenth, observed on June 19th, marks a day of reflection, education, and...Continue Reading

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEMonday, May 20, 2024For more information, contact:Jason Bolinger Modern Functionality Meets User-Friendly Navigation in Latest Digital UpgradeOTTUMWA, IA—Greater Ottumwa Partners in Progress (GOPIP) is happy to announce the launch of its newly redesigned website, created in collaboration with Golden Shovel Agency. The website, which can be viewed at www.gopip.org,...Continue Reading

The City of Ottumwa, Iowa, is taking a groundbreaking step towards fostering youth leadership and civic participation by establishing a pilot Youth City Council program. This initiative recognizes the importance of empowering young people and giving them a platform to contribute meaningfully to their community.Set to launch in 2024 and...Continue Reading

In Ottumwa, Iowa, agriculture isn't just a sector; it's a way of life. As the heartland of America, Ottumwa thrives on the bounty of its fertile lands and the dedication of its farmers. Each year, the community comes together to celebrate this vital industry on Ag Day, a testament to...Continue Reading

Greater Ottumwa Partners In Progress (GOPIP) is thrilled to announce the 2nd Annual Lean In Conference, a regional event returning to the Bridge View Center in Ottumwa, Iowa, on March 8th, 2024. This year's conference coincides with International Women's Day, making it an even more momentous occasion to celebrate the...Continue Reading

2023 was a momentous year for Ottumwa. The collaboration of numerous groups and individuals on various economic and community development initiatives offered a showcase for what is possible when a community cares for each other and has its sights set on the future. Greater Ottumwa Partners in Progress (GOPIP) is...Continue Reading

Diana Dominguez is a vital figure in the heart of Ottumwa, where economic development converges with cultural diversity. Her role as an Office Associate for Greater Ottumwa Partners in Progress (GOPIP) marks a pivotal point in promoting inclusivity, economic empowerment, and community engagement, particularly within Ottumwa's vibrant Hispanic population.Diana's keen...Continue Reading

Unveiling History One Artifact at a TimeProfessional paper conservator Erin Naylor founded Heron Kross, LLC to save historical documents, artworks on paper, and family heirlooms and to bring new life to old things. Armed with a Master's Degree in Art Conservation from Queen's University in Ontario, Canada, Erin specializes in...Continue Reading

In the heart of Ottumwa, Iowa, the epitome of style and community spirit radiates through My Chic Boutique and Ottumwa Tuxedo Rental, all thanks to the dedication and vision of Terri Baird. Her journey from a corporate manager and programmer to becoming a beloved local business owner is an inspiring...Continue Reading

Jason Bolinger has been newly appointed as a Digital Media Specialist for Greater Ottumwa Partners in Progress (GOPIP). Bolinger's dynamic background, a symphony of artistic endeavors and digital prowess, promises to amplify GOPIP's role in driving economic development and nurturing community growth. “Digital media is a powerful tool for encouraging...Continue Reading

Plastipak, a company with operations in Ottumwa, Iowa, has established itself as a global leader in packaging and recycling since its inception in 1967. Initially providing packaging for a water delivery company, Plastipak has grown exponentially over the past five decades, with over 60 sites across North America, South America,...Continue Reading

A community's housing market plays a crucial role in shaping the quality of life for its residents, attracting newcomers to the area, and supporting local businesses in their efforts to recruit and retain employees. Recognizing the significance of this aspect, the City of Ottumwa, in collaboration with the Legacy Foundation,...Continue Reading

The 1st Annual Lean-In Conference by Greater Ottumwa Partners In Progress was celebrated on International Women’s Day in Ottumwa. The event was hosted at the Bridge View Center on March 8th, 2023.  Lean-In is a diversity, equity, and inclusion event centered around women that seeks to pass on the strength...Continue Reading

To address the challenges of career and technical education,  several strategies are being employed in Ottumwa. One of the primary goals is to create a roadmap that provides clear training pathways for multiple careers to create a talent pipeline for local businesses. The board is adopting sector strategies and career...Continue Reading

As we begin another new year, it is time to lay down a fresh blueprint of goals and aspirations. At this juncture, the usefulness of having a budget in our daily lives cannot be overemphasized. What is a budget? A budget is simply a financial plan that takes into account...Continue Reading