Tourism board approves $1,500 for "Baker Day" farmers and folk market

The Baker County Tourist Development Council voted unanimously to approve a $1,500 request to support a proposed "Baker Day" farmer-and-folk market intended to promote the county's rural character and attract visitors.

Betty Center, presenting for the project and filling in for Shira Callahan, told the board the event has backing from the city, county, sheriff's office and the farm bureau and would be run as a yearly festival with a focus on promotion. "This year's proposal requested $1,500 from the TDC, and the total event budget was $2,500," she said.

The presenter said vendors from five neighboring counties had expressed interest, that heritage buildings would be opened during the event and that promotional materials — including footage provided earlier by Visit Florida — were available for use. Organizers described a plan to avoid vendor fees, give all attendees raffle tickets at entry and livestream the closing raffle to distribute donated prizes.

Board member Roger Langton moved to approve the request; Danny Norton seconded. Chair called for the vote and said, "Motion carried unanimously." The transcript records the motion being made by a "Mister Langford" at the time of the vote; a board member later identified himself as Roger Langton during the meeting record.

The approved funds are designated for promotional signage and advertising to draw attendees; organizers said they will use the money "carefully and intentionally" to bring visitors and build the event into an annual attraction.

The board did not record individual vote names in the transcript. The meeting then moved on to other agenda items.