July Newsletter, 2026

Jul 1
3 min read

What is the definition of rich? Butch told me one time, “I’m not rich but I know someone who is." He worked hard and we worked hard together. The man never quit! We had an incredible celebration of his life at the Open House and In-water Boat show on June 20th. It was his favorite event of the year. When it was time to put on a show he turned into “Boat Show Butch” (if you know you know). He was hard to keep up with! Rudy and I giggled about our trips to the Miami Boat Show. Yes, it sounds exotic, but there was no fun to be had until all the work was done. We had meetings, networking, and were always looking for new, great things to bring back to Okoboji. It’s one of the many reasons he was so successful. And hunger be damned, you can starve, we’ve got work to do! He is so missed! And hey Butch – we sold some boats at the boat show! (High five honey!)

Speaking of meetings, Cobalt has been an incredible partner for us. Their production is limited and we are already booking build slots for next year. I encourage you to reserve your slot. Some of the big ones take 100 days to build! The technology in boats nowadays is hard to believe. They are easier to drive with joystick steering and the biminis can fold down for added shade at the touch of a button. How about an automated swim step? I shake my head at all the options. The Cobalt owners party will be Friday, July 31st. It’s going to be “Willie” fun… we’re talking a redneck tribute to America and a Willie Nelson tribute performance. He was one of Butch’s favorites. We’ll be “On the Boat Again!”

The Barletta Pontoon reps visited us in June and were impressed with our operation. We’re so lucky to be partnered with these great companies. Crownline continues to be a staple in our line, too! Boats are selling and new stuff is getting a little slim to pick from. Previously owned ones are also selling quickly. Now is the time to buy. Shoot us an email to sales@parksmarina.com, we can put a “hold on anything” so you’ve got your boat for the July 4th fireworks!'

Stop by the Barefoot or Snappers, both are GREAT spots to hang out in the

summer. Johnny Holm is back for the Full Moon Party in July. Public cruises are

going great. We’ve got boats going out every day. These fill up fast this time of year – if you want to hop on board you’ll find tickets at www.cruiseokoboji.com. Private cruises are always an option! Book the family on one of our excursion boats while the dates are still available. How about a cruise with a full bar and bartender for a Saturday night fireworks show? We will pick you up anywhere on the water. Reach out to cruises@parksmarina.com. We have a private event space with unbelievable views above Snappers restaurant. If you bought a boat here, we will give you a deal on a rental. Reach out to our team at events@parksmarina.com.