FUN
in Ottumwa
ANNUAL GOLF CLASSIC
The end of July means golf, networking and fun at GOPIP. The Annual Greater Ottumwa Partners in Progress Golf Classic brings all of that and has become a tradition for investors.
This year was GOPIP’ s most successful outing since before the pandemic, with 31 teams competing at The Club, most of them being members.
“ We had a record year this year as far as attendance goes looking back since COVID,” said GOPIP Executive Director Marc Roe.“ It’ s probably the premier networking event that we have from our investors’ standpoint, and its just a really good day of fun that everybody kind of gets to shake the business off for the day and just go out and have a good time and play a round of golf.”
GREATER OTTUMWA RODEO
The Fourth of July weekend has become synonymous with the Greater Ottumwa Partners in Progress Rodeo. The first event in 2017 drew about 500 people, but has since grown to an event that spans the weekend, bringing 600-700 people per day.
As a part of their push for inclusivity, the GOPIP Rodeo has incorporated Hispanic acts into the event, which has boosted attendance greatly.
“ The rodeo went from a one-day event to a threeday event over the last three years,” Roe said.“ So I think that’ s a testament to the good work that our staff has done and the buy-in from that community that we’ ve received from putting on a quality production.”
OTTUMWA WINTERFEST
Ottumwa WinterFest will debut Dec. 15-21 with a mix of new attractions and traditional holiday activities.
The festival’ s centerpiece is an outdoor ice rink open to skaters of all ages. Inside the Southeast Iowa JBS Sports Center, a vendor market will feature local makers, gifts and seasonal treats. Santa Claus and his 4-H helpers will host a children’ s craft workshop, while families can also enjoy lighted carriage rides.
The Iowa Heartlanders hockey team will participate, and food trucks will serve a variety of dishes. Organizers call it“ Ice, Lights, and Local Delights.”
22 GOPIP Investor Directory 2025-26