Khalia-Ann Phlaum was inspired by elements of Baker County when she drew a design for a contest sponsored by the Baker County Chamber of Commerce in spring 2023.

Her image features mountains, a wagon and flowers.

“Sunflowers are my favorite, and lavender,” Phlaum said.

The 16-year-old’s design was chosen as the winner for the contest, which means her drawing is now featured on a stack of T-shirts in the chamber’s gift shop at 490 Campbell St.

“It took me forever because I wanted to get it right,” she said.

Devon Colton, executive director of the chamber, launched the contest in March. The goal was to get submissions from all corners of Baker County.

When the contest ended April 28, there were only two entries.

Phlaum’s design was chosen for the shirt, and Zoey Papenfuss’ drawing — a black-and-white design that can be colored — now graces postcards in the chamber’s gift shop.

Colton plans to hold another contest for T-shirt designs.

“It’s something I want to roll out yearly,” she said.

In addition to Phlaum’s T-shirt, the shop also stocks shirts from Richland — “Have a Crappie Day” — as well as Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort and two new designs created by Elkhorn Custom Apparel. New hats also grace the space with the slogan “Living the Dream.”

“It’s definitely brightened up in here,” Colton said.

She encourages locals and visitors to check out the gift shop, which is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

In addition to local items, the chamber stocks many brochures for attractions both in Baker County and around the state and beyond.

Chamber seeking artists

Colton wants the chamber’s gift shop to be an outlet for local art, as well as food products, jewelry and other items created around the county.

Sellers will earn 70% of the sales, and the visitor’s bureau will keep 30% to support community events.

Those interested can pick up an application at the chamber, 490 Campbell St. For more information, send an email to info@visitbaker.com or call 541-523-5855.

Colton said work will be rotated on a quarterly basis.