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Guest House hosts Cup O’ Joe with
a Pro
[July 11, 2026]
On Thursday morning, coffee and
cookies were served to the small group that gathered at Guest House
to discuss ideas for growing business in Lincoln and Logan County.
Scott McCoy, Director of Tourism for the City of Lincoln, was the
guest speaker in the series sponsored by Lincoln Economic
Advancement and Development (LEAD).
The casual conversation began with Mr. McCoy introducing himself.
Then, Ethan Hoinacki asked the first question regarding the
difference between the Lincoln Department of Tourism and the Logan
County Tourism Bureau. McCoy noted that Logan County is one of the
smallest Convention and Visitors Bureaus (CVBs) in the state, but
also the oldest. In recent years, the state has pushed to combine
and eliminate CVBs. The Department of Tourism for Lincoln came about
as the City of Lincoln was paying for the entire county to have a
CVB. He also noted that Lincoln and Logan County must compete with
larger CVBs like Pontiac and Springfield.
The development of this department helps eliminate some of the
issues involving landmarks around Lincoln. McCoy used the recently
relocated covered wagon as an example. Before moving, the wagon was
situated on private property; now that it has been relocated, it is
under the care of the Department of Tourism. It also provides
clarity for the “welcome park”. Although the move has been met with
questions and doubt. Due to insurance and maintenance issues, the
transition was a priority. The move also places the covered wagon
and the “LINCOLN” letters on the original Route 66.
Annie Coers and McCoy noted that the Logan County Tourism Bureau has
been building momentum, becoming more involved, bringing Logan
County communities together, and helping promote the county. McCoy
has seen that the board of the Logan County Tourism Bureau has been
very involved and dedicated to the bureau's rejuvenation.
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They discussed the
need for many of Lincoln and Logan County’s larger events to be
managed under a single umbrella rather than as separate
entities. Hoinacki also mentioned the need for more transparency
and public discussion. They realized that change is often met
with resistance and hope that the public will begin to
participate and share their thoughts on how Lincoln and Logan
County can improve tourism. There was discussion of the Museum
of Route 66’s ticket and the QR code on it, which could help
connect Route 66 with other businesses in Lincoln and Logan
County. They touched on popular sights and events, like the
watermelon bench and the Third Friday events in Lincoln, and how
those could be expanded and marketed. McCoy plans to focus Route
66 signage on the 26th alignment and is excited for the
installation of the world’s largest penny.
McCoy reminded everyone of the opening of the Museum of Route 66
and is excited to welcome guests on Saturday, July 11.
[Joli Boerma Crane]
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