Gourmandistan’s “Best Baguette” award is held in semi-perpetuity by Blue Dog Bakery, and we would love to see this kind of competition fostered across America. Instead of “American Idol,” can we have “American Baguette?”

In receiving the award, Mr. Bodian earned 4,000 euros and the title of “Mr. President’s Baker” — every year, the winner of the annual contest earns the privilege of baking bread for the president of France; starting this month Mr. Bodian’s bread will be served at Nicolas Sarkozy’s residence, the Élysée Palace.

Best Baguette Prize Awarded in Paris – In Transit Blog – NYTimes.com.