OTTUMWA, IOWA -- Residents gathered for the Partners in Progress Annual Banquet Thursday night to celebrate Ottumwa.

During the evening, guests listened to an overview of many of Ottumwa’s business accomplishments in 2008.

In fact, four special companies were designated as outstanding businesses, including Dr. Pepper Snapple Group, George Boitnott Enterprises, Inc., John Deere Ottumwa Works and the Photo Shop/Colormaster.

President of the Ottumwa Area Chamber of Commerce, John Burgett, told KTVO that he hopes people walk away with an enthusiastic view of Ottumwa.

"Ottumwa is a great place to live, it's a great place to have a business and it's just a great place to be in general," Burgett said.

Patsy Seals received the Gene Schultz Community Award.

The achievement recognizes Seals for all of her community service and her giving attitude.