LA’s Best Cookie Bakers Will Raise Dough to Save Abandoned Pets at National Cookie Month Events in Hollywood, Pacific Palisades and The Valley

LOS ANGELES, Sept. 28, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- L.A.’s best cookie bakers will unite to celebrate National Cookie Month (October) during three BakeCamp LA cookie-tasting festivals at iconic locations across the city:

• Saturday, October 7th at Hollywood 1st Presbyterian Church (1760 N. Gower St.)
• Saturday, October 14th at Pacific Palisades Woman’s Club (901 Haverford Ave.)
• Sunday, October 22nd at Valley Relics Museum (7900 Balboa Blvd.)
  

BakeCamp helps support Paw Works – the nonprofit rescue that works with local shelters and has found permanent homes for more than 15,000 abandoned animals since 2014.

Each BakeCamp event will feature more than 50 local pro and amateur bakers under one roof competing to be crowned “LA’s Favorite Cookie Baker” (as voted on by attendees and a panel of judges -- see list below). The top amateur baker will also win a collaboration with SoCal-based TheCravory.com to create a custom cookie and sell it nationwide.

Attendees will step into a cookie wonderland where they can savor an extraordinary range of flavors – from classics such as Dark Chocolate Chunk and Birthday Cake Funfetti to adventurous combinations like Barbenheimer Macarons. There will be something for everyone, including dog-friendly “bark bites” to take home to canine cookie lovers. While BakeCamp is for humans, each event will include a Paw Works “Barkery” (i.e., puppy pen) with rescue animals to remind cookie lovers that every tasty bite helps save a life.

BakeCamp is produced by Los Angeles-based BakeSpace.com – the Webby-honored food social network and recipe swap launched in 2006.

BakeSpace.com Founder (and BakeCamp Chief Cookie Curator) Babette Pepaj said, “Cookies bring people together and we’re bringing together L.A.’s best cookie bakers to celebrate National Cookie Month while supporting a great cause. With three events spread across town, we’re taking BakeCamp directly to the community.”

Pepaj added that bakers will range from LA’s most prominent artisan cookie makers to home bakers with recipes handed down through generations. “Attendees will meet fellow cookie lovers and be able to compare notes directly with the bakers behind each recipe,” she added.

In keeping with BakeCamp’s mission, all three venues are run by nonprofit organizations devoted to serving the local community. BakeCamp is proud to support their efforts.

Each BakeCamp event will offer two tasting sessions, from 10 AM – 12:30 PM and 1:30 PM – 4 PM. General admission tickets are $45 (includes 15 cookies), while a kids’ Mini Cookie Lover’s Pass is $15 (includes 5 cookies).

More information and tickets for each event are available at BakeCamp.org.

A limited number of spots are also still available for amateur and pro bakers who want to participate. Bakers can sign up at BakeCamp.org.

BakeCamp Judges:

• Neil Saavedra, Host, KFI’s The Fork Report - @forkreporter
• Sarah J. Gim, Founder, The Delicious Life (and Tastespotting) - @TheDelicious
• Kiano Moju, Founder, Jikoni Studios (formerly Buzzfeed Tasty Producer) - @kianomoju
• Steven Chavez, Founder, LatinoFoodie.com - @latinofoodie
• Catherine McCord, Founder, Weelicious.com - @weelicious
  
  

For more information about BakeCamp visit http://bakecamp.org.

About National Cookie Month
National Cookie Month in October is a celebration of one of the most beloved sweet treats. It's a time to come together, share delicious cookies, and embrace the warmth and comfort these treats bring to our lives. #NationalCookieMonth

Contact:
Erik Deutsch

ExcelPR Group

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Cookbook Café - the do-it-yourself cookbook app publishing platform from BakeSpace.com – has earned the 2014 Appy Award in the “Best App for iPad Publishing” category.

Cookbook Café is the first DIY platform that enables anyone (home chef, brand, nonprofit organization, etc.) to create, market and distribute a cookbook as an iPad app and web-based ebook.

There is no cost to publish a cookbook, download the Cookbook Café app or use the cookbook storefront and reader. The storefront and reader employ proprietary indexing technology that enables users to search recipes within cookbooks individually by type, ingredient, author and keyword. This helps ensure that even niche cookbooks by unknown authors have a chance of being discovered in the storefront. Such indexing also makes it uniquely easy for users to find specific recipes across cookbooks once they are downloaded into the Cookbook Café reader.

Cookbook Café is part of BakeSpace.com – which launched in 2006 and has grown to become one of the largest food communities online. Cookbook authors who use the platform can access and leverage the community’s large built-in audience of culinary enthusiasts.

Produced by MediaPost Communications, the Appy Awards (“Appys”) honor creativity and excellence in app design on all platforms: mobile, social and web-based apps. The 2014 Appy Award winners were announced May 21st at a ceremony held in conjunction with Internet Week New York.

In addition to winning the Appy Award, Cookbook Café has earned multiple Webby Award Honors (“Best Mobile & Apps: Social” and “Best Social Tablet App”), and was recognized by the International Association of Culinary Professionals (IACP) for “Outstanding Use of New Technology.”

“Our goal for Cookbook Café is to empower everyone who has ever dreamed of publishing their own cookbook,” said BakeSpace Founder Babette Pepaj. “We share the Appy Award with everyone who has used the platform to publish their cookbooks, and in the process helped make Cookbook Café a success.”

Cookbook Café enables indie authors to create app-based cookbooks without the cost and complexity typically associated with app publishing. They do not need to hire an app developer and designer, and do not have to navigate submitting their app to Apple’s App Store and waiting for it to be approved (or rejected). Cookbook Café manages the entire process.

Cookbook Café authors set their own price. Many give their cookbook away for free as a way to build awareness for their brand, while others set a price between $0.99 and $9.99 per download. Each cookbook is acquired by the end-user as either a free download or in-app purchase on the iPad, or as a free download or online purchase on the web.

The Cookbook Café app is available on iTunes. The companion online cookbook builder and web-based cookbook reader/marketplace are available at http://bakespace.com/Cookbooks.

About BakeSpace, Inc.

Launched in 2006 as the Web's first food social network, BakeSpace has grown to become a diversified online media, app publishing and conference production company for engaging consumers who are passionate about the culinary lifestyle. The core BakeSpace.com community has been described by USA Today as "the closest thing to a Facebook-like food site.” The company's 'Cookbook Cafe' platform is the first publishing tool that enables anyone to create, market and distribute a cookbook as both an iPad app and a web-based eBook. BakeSpace’s offline events include the TECHmunch Food Blogger Conference held in cities across North America.

Contacts

for BakeSpace.com
Erik Deutsch

LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--BakeSpace.com and its Cookbook Café cookbook app publishing platform have once again earned multiple Webby Award honors.

“Our goal is to empower everyone who has ever dreamed of publishing their own cookbook”

For 2014, the company’s food social network and recipe swap was honored in the “Food & Drink Website” category, while its cookbook app publisher was honored for “Mobile & Apps: Social.” Fellow honorees include FoodNetwork.com, Food.com, Saveur.com and Path, Inc.

Since BakeSpace launched in 2006, the company has earned a total of 15 Webby Award honors and nominations, including back-to-back nominations for “Best Social Network.”

In addition, the Cookbook Café App and eBook Publisher has been recognized by the International Association of Culinary Professionals (IACP) for “Outstanding Use of New Technology.” Cookbook Café is the first do-it-yourself publishing tool that enables anyone (home chef, brand, nonprofit, etc.) to create, market and sell a cookbook as an iPad app and web-based eBook. There is no cost to publish a cookbook or use the app.

Download the Cookbook Café app on iTunes at http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/bakespace.coms-cookbook-cafe/id467167455?mt=8 and try the companion online cookbook publishing tool at http://bakespace.com/Cookbooks. For more information visit www.CookbookCafe.com.

“Our goal is to empower everyone who has ever dreamed of publishing their own cookbook,” said BakeSpace Founder Babette Pepaj. “This latest Webby honor is shared with all the authors who have helped make Cookbook Café a success.”

About the Webby Awards

Hailed as the "Internet's highest honor" by The New York Times, the Webby is the leading international award honoring excellence on the Internet. Established in 1996, it is presented by the International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences (IADAS). This year's 18th annual competition included more than 12,000 entries from 60-plus countries.

About BakeSpace, Inc.

Launched in 2006 as the Web's first food social network, BakeSpace has grown to become a diversified online media, app publishing and conference production company for engaging consumers who are passionate about the culinary lifestyle. The core BakeSpace.com community has been described by USA Today as "the closest thing to a Facebook-like food site.” The company's 'Cookbook Cafe' platform is the first publishing tool that enables anyone to create, market and sell a cookbook as both an iPad app and a web-based eBook. BakeSpace’s offline events include the TECHmunch Food Blogger Conference (www.TECHmunchconf.com) held in cities across North America.

Contacts

For BakeSpace
Erik Deutsch

ANAHEIM, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--BakeSpace.com's traveling TECHmunch Food Blogger Conference returns to Southern California January 29-31 at Disneyland's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, with three days of activities at the Disneyland Resort.

This expanded TECHmunch conference includes a session for food bloggers to pitch their cookbook ideas to a panel of brands and compete for a publishing deal. Each winning blogger will be awarded a cash prize and a contract to publish a sponsored cookbook using BakeSpace.com's "Cookbook Cafe" app and ebook publishing platform. In addition, winning bloggers will score a guest appearance on BakeSpace.com's "Kitchen Party" (#kitchenparty) culinary talk show on Google Plus and BakeSpaceTV.com.

Other TECHmunch sessions will address hands-on tools and tactics -- from creating great content and building a loyal audience to leveraging Pinterest and Google Authorship. Like every TECHmunch conference, the focus will be on sharing practical, hands-on knowledge that authors can use to take their blogs to the next level.

The conference at Disneyland Resort represents a homecoming for TECHmunch, which was last held in Southern California in August 2011.

"We're thrilled to be back home and to work with Disney on a very special TECHmunch," said BakeSpace.com Founder and TECHmunch Producer Babette Pepaj. "The conference is about building relationships and giving food bloggers the tools they need to succeed, and this time we'll do it in Disney style."

TECHmunch bloggers will also attend a two-hour "Taste of Disneyland" networking lunch, where Disneyland Resort chefs will be on hand to serve and discuss their favorite recipes.

The full conference agenda and list of speakers is available at http://techmunchla.com.

Other TECHmunch conferences in 2014 are planned Austin, New York City, Atlanta, Chicago, San Francisco and Miami. To learn more about TECHmunch, please visit http://techmunchconf.com and follow #techmunch.

About TECHmunch

TECHmunch is a series of conferences held in cities across North America to help food bloggers gain the hands-on skills they need to make their blogs more personally and professionally rewarding. TECHmunch was created by BakeSpace.com Founder Babette Pepaj, who serves as conference producer. Connect with TECHmunch on Facebook at www.facebook.com/TECHmunch and on Twitter via hashtag #TECHmunch. More information is available at www.TECHmunchconf.com.

About BakeSpace, Inc.

Launched in 2006 as the Web's first food social network, BakeSpace has grown to become a diversified online media, do-it-yourself app publishing and conference production company for engaging consumers who are passionate about cooking and the culinary lifestyle. The core BakeSpace.com online community has been described by USA Today as "the closest thing to a Facebook-like food site," and has earned numerous Webby Award honors including back-to-back nominations for “Best Social Network.” The company's 'Cookbook Cafe' publishing platform is the first digital publishing tool that enables anyone (home cook, brand, nonprofit organization, etc.) to create, market and sell a cookbook as both a native iPad app and a web-based eBook. The company also produces offline events, including the TECHmunch Food Blogger Conference held in cities across North America, as well as live-streaming web series highlighting trends in the culinary world.

Contacts

for BakeSpace.com
Erik Deutsch, 323-851-2300 x112

LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--InvisiblePeople.tv has teamed up with BakeSpace.com and some of the most visible people in social media to create “The Social Cookbook” – a first-of-its-kind app-based fundraising cookbook to raise funds to fight homelessness.

“Fundraising cookbooks have been around for a long time, so our goal for Cookbook Café was to update the publishing process and make it easier, more efficient and more rewarding”

Created with BakeSpace's Cookbook Café digital publishing platform, “The Social Cookbook” is available for download on the iPad via the free Cookbook Café app, as well as online as a web-based e-book. It includes personal recipes from 19 highly respected social media influencers - from Chris Brogan and Liz Strauss to Brian Solis and Beth Kanter.

The cookbook costs $2.99 to download, and all proceeds (after Apple’s App Store fee) go to support InvisiblePeople.tv and its efforts to fight homelessness using the power of social media. The organization is a nationally-recognized 501(c)3 nonprofit founded in 2008 by Mark Horvath (@hardlynormal on Twitter). Its mission is to empower the homeless to tell their stories, build community and connect with support services by helping them get online and have a voice.

To build “The Social Cookbook,” a list of all-star social media influencers contributed their favorite personal recipes including:

• David Armano’s “Popo Mikey’s Famous Stuffing & Mom’s Turkey Gravy” (@armano)
• Chris Brogan’s “Poor Man’s Shepherd's Pie” (@chrisbrogan)
• C.C. Chapman’s “Soggy Saturday Wings” (@cc_chapman)
• Claire Diaz-Ortiz’s “Sugar Cookies” (@Claire)
• Sarah Evans’ “Blueberry Whole Wheat Pancakes with Bananas” (@PRsarahevans)
• Jason Falls’ “Potato and Egg Salad” (@jasonfalls)
• Sean Gardner’s “Lasagna” (@2morrowknight)
• Beth Kanter’s “Kachumber Salad” (@kanter)
• Jason Keath’s “Dirty Greek Eggs” (@jasonkeath)
• Shira Lazar’s “Shira’s Social Sangria” (@shiralazar)
• Stefanie Michaels’ “Eggs ala Salsa” (@adventuregirl)
• Amy Neumann’s “Simple Homemade Pickles” (@CharityIdeas)
• Amber Naslund’s “Chicken Tortilla Soup” (@ambercadabra)
• Lee Odden’s “Philly Cheese Steak Rolls” (@leeodden)
• Jeff Pulver’s “Jeff Pulver’s Jackson Hole Shakshuka” (@jeffpulver)
• Peter Shankman’s “Mom’s Calming Noodles and Cheese” (@petershankman)
• Mari Smith’s “Mom’s Scottish Shortbread” (@marismith)
• Brian Solis’ “Tortilla Espanola” (@briansolis)
• Liz Strauss’ “Grilled Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich” (@lizstrauss)

“I love that this cookbook brings together some of the most visible people in social media to help some of the least visible people in our society,” said InvisiblePeople.tv Founder Mark Horvath. “I’m grateful to everyone who helped create ‘The Social Cookbook,’ as well as everyone who downloads it to help fight homelessness.”

To preview excerpts from the cookbook and learn more, visit http://bit.ly/thesocialcookbook.

“Fundraising cookbooks have been around for a long time, so our goal for Cookbook Café was to update the publishing process and make it easier, more efficient and more rewarding,” said BakeSpace.com Founder Babette Pepaj. “We wanted to come up with a technology that democratizes cookbook publishing and helps nonprofits like InvisiblePeople sweeten their fundraising efforts.”

Cookbook Café enables anyone (individuals, groups, brands, etc.) to publish a cookbook as both a web-based e-book and an iPad app quickly, easily and at no cost.

Once a cookbook is published, the author can give it away for free or sell it to the world for profit or fundraising. Cookbooks are sold online and on the iPad via Cookbook Café’s community-driven marketplace, which makes it easy for shoppers to discover even the most niche cookbooks. “The Social Cookbook” is the first cookbook published using Cookbook Café’s new groups feature, which enables groups of any size to crowdsource recipes and work together to build a cookbook.

Earlier this year, Cookbook Café was recognized by the Webby Awards and the IACP (International Association of Culinary Professionals) in the best social app and use of new technology categories. The do-it-yourself publishing platform includes: 1) The free Cookbook Café iPad app with cookbook storefront and reader, 2) A web-based version of the storefront and reader accessible via any web browser, and 3) A web-based book builder that automatically publishes each cookbook as both an iPad app and web-based e-book. To make an original cookbook, visit BakeSpace.com/cookbooks – it’s free!

About InvsiblePeople.tv

InvisiblePeople.tv is a grassroots 501(c)3 nonprofit founded in 2008 by Mark Horvath (@hardlynormal on Twitter) to fight poverty and homelessness using the power of online social media. The organization launched its sister site - WeAreVisible.com - in September 2010 as a resource to educate homeless people, help them get online and connect with support services. After building a successful career in television syndication, Mark found himself homeless in 1995 following a battle with addiction. He worked hard to clean up his act, and was living comfortably by 2007 with a three-bedroom house and a 780 credit score. But then the recession hit. After several layoffs and a foreclosure, he was once again facing homelessness. That’s when Mark launched InvisiblePeople.tv with just $45 and a budding interest in social media. More information is available at http://InvisiblePeople.tv and http://WeAreVisible.com.

About Cookbook Cafe and BakeSpace.com

Launched in 2006 as the Web’s first food social network, BakeSpace.com has been described by USA Today as “the closest thing to a Facebook-like food site.” It has earned numerous Webby Award honors including back-to-back nominations for “Best Social Network.” The company's ‘Cookbook Café’ publishing platform is the first DIY digital publishing tool that enables anyone to create, market and sell a cookbook as both a native iPad app and a web-based eBook. BakeSpace also produces the TECHmunch Food Blogger Conference, which is held in cities across North America.

Contacts

For BakeSpace
Erik Deutsch

BakeSpace.com Nominated for Webby Award as Best Social Networking Site

Online Food Community Selected as Finalist for 13th Annual "Oscars of the Internet"; Nomination Follows Back-to-Back Webby Award Honors in '07 and '08

LOS ANGELES, CA--(Marketwire - April 15, 2009) - The third time's a charm for BakeSpace.com when it comes to the annual Webby Awards competition. Named a Webby Awards "Official Honoree" in 2007 and 2008, the popular food social network and recipe swap has been selected this year as one of five Nominees vying for the top prize in the ultra-competitive Social Networking category.

Hailed as the "Internet's highest honor" by the New York Times, The Webby Awards recognize excellence on the Internet, including Web sites, interactive advertising, online film/video and mobile content. This year's Nominees were selected from nearly 10,000 entries from all 50 states and more than 60 countries.

"Being nominated for best social networking site is even more delicious and satisfying than my recipe for chocolate ganache cupcakes," said BakeSpace Founder Babette Pepaj. "We're a true grassroots community, so we're thrilled to share this honor with our members."

As a Nominee to win top prize in the Social Networking category, BakeSpace is also eligible to win a Webby People's Voice Award, which is voted online by the global Web community. From now until April 30th, BakeSpace fans can cast their votes for the People's Voice Award at http://pv.webbyawards.com. Winners in all categories will be announced on May 5th, and honored at a ceremony in New York City on June 8th.

"Nominees like BakeSpace are setting the standard for innovation and creativity on the Internet," said David-Michel Davies, executive director of the Webby Awards. "It is an incredible achievement to be selected among the best from the nearly 10,000 entries we received this year."

Launched in August 2006, BakeSpace updates the age-old tradition of gathering in the kitchen to prepare food, share skills and socialize. The site's international membership ranges from teenagers just starting to explore the culinary lifestyle to great grandparents who want to catalogue and preserve their treasured family recipes.

To mark its second anniversary in August 2008, BakeSpace introduced a range of new features including a first-of-its-kind food mentor program that makes it easy for members to connect with and learn from their more experienced peers. The site also expanded its proprietary "Recipe Feed" newsfeed-style system for swapping recipes, which helps members stay up-to-speed on what their friends are preparing in the kitchen.

In addition to building a vibrant grassroots community, BakeSpace has developed a distinctive advertising platform that enables brands to connect with consumers on a peer-to-peer level and add value to the social networking experience.

Over the past two years, the site has hosted promotions for food-related brands such as KitchenAid, Reynolds Parchment Paper, Sara Lee and McCormick, as well as consumer product and entertainment brands including Kodak, ABC, Universal Pictures and FOX Searchlight.

An ongoing example is a campaign for ABC's "Desperate Housewives" that invites BakeSpace members to swap recipes and cooking tips inspired by Bree, Edie, Susan and the show's other lead characters. After each new "Desperate Housewives" episode, recipes are added to the show's BakeSpace profile based on the latest storyline.

About BakeSpace.com

Launched in August 2006, BakeSpace is a grassroots online community where members post, search and swap recipes, create their own "online kitchen," share cooking tips, raid the "virtual pantry"(forums), upload cooking videos and interact with other food enthusiasts from around the world. Membership on the site is free. More information is available at www.BakeSpace.com.

About the 13th Annual Webby Awards

Established in 1996, the Webby Awards program is presented by the International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences (IADAS), a 650-member judging academy whose members include leading Web experts, business figures, luminaries, visionaries and celebrities such as David Bowie, Richard Branson and Matt Groenig. More information is available at www.WebbyAwards.com.

Contact:    Erik Deutsch
ExcelPR Group

KitchenAid and BakeSpace.com Reunite for Appliance-a-Day Giveaway

Calling All Foodies for February's Month-Long Appliance Giveaway; Prizes Include Professional 600TM Series Stand Mixers

LOS ANGELES, CA--(Marketwire - February 3, 2009) - BakeSpace.com -- launched in August 2006 as the Web's first food social network and recipe swap -- is reuniting with KitchenAid for its latest month-long "Appliance-a-Day Giveaway."

The giveaway, which runs February 1-28, marks the second collaboration between BakeSpace and KitchenAid. The companies joined forces for their first "Appliance-a-Day" promotion in July 2007.

This year, they're giving away a premium KitchenAid brand appliance each day throughout February. Appliances up for grabs include KitchenAid slow cookers, food processors, mixers and blenders. In addition, two Professional 600™ Series stand mixers will be awarded as grand prizes on March 1st. Giveaway details and a daily prize calendar are available at http://www.bakespace.com/kitchenaid.

The only exception to the month-long prize-a-day schedule will come on Valentine's Day, when KitchenAid and BakeSpace unleash some extra foodie love by giving away two matching prizes to that day's winner (one for the winner and one for his or her loved one).

"We love teaming up with brands like KitchenAid to reward members and help make their time on the site even more valuable," said BakeSpace Founder (and avid baker) Babette Pepaj. Over the past two years, BakeSpace has also teamed with other top food and consumer brands including Reynolds Parchment Paper, Sara Lee, McCormick, Kodak and ABC (e.g., "Desperate Housewives" Recipes, "Ugly Betty" Recipes and "Gray's Anatomy" Recipes) on a range of unique promotions that engage with members in new and exciting ways.

KitchenAid Senior Manager of Brand Experience Deb O'Connor added, "Being part of the ritual of cooking and sharing meals has always been a great source of pride for KitchenAid. We are thrilled to partner with BakeSpace.com again as KitchenAid celebrates its 90th anniversary."

Each day throughout February, BakeSpace members who upload original recipes or invite friends who join the site will earn online raffle tickets that enter them automatically into that day's giveaway; the more recipes and/or friends, the better the chance of winning. Each day's winner will be selected via a random drawing and announced on BakeSpace at midnight Eastern Time. A running tally of daily giveaway and grand prize leaders will also be published on the site at http://www.bakespace.com/kitchenaid/points. On March 1st, the two members with the highest totals each category (recipes and new members) will each win a grand prize.

The Appliance-a-Day Giveaway is open to all BakeSpace members. Membership is free, and joining the site is as easy as making toast. Visit http://www.bakespace.com/kitchenaid to create your own online kitchen and participate in the giveaway. Also follow BakeSpace on Twitter -- @BakeSpace -- for giveaway updates and bonus Twitter-only giveaways throughout the month.

About BakeSpace.com

Launched in August 2006, BakeSpace is an independent, grassroots online community and recipe swap for people who love to cook, bake and hang out in the kitchen. Members can post, search and swap recipes, create a personalized "online kitchen," find/become a food mentor, get cooking tips, raid the "virtual pantry" (forums), upload cooking videos and share their passion with other foodies from around the world. The site's first-of-its-kind food mentor program makes it easy for foodies to help one another improve their skills in the kitchen, while discovering new friends along the way. Members range from teenagers just starting to explore the culinary lifestyle to great-grandparents who want to share and catalogue their treasured family recipes. The site's unique advertising platform enables brands to engage with consumers and add value to the social networking experience. BakeSpace earned back-to-back (2007 and 2008) Webby Award Honors in the social networking category. More information is available at www.BakeSpace.com.

About KitchenAid

Since the introduction of its legendary stand mixer in 1919 and first dishwasher in 1949, KitchenAid has built on the legacy of these icons to create a complete line of products designed for cooks. Celebrating its 90th anniversary in 2009, the KitchenAid brand now offers virtually every essential for the well-equipped kitchen with a collection that includes everything from countertop appliances to cookware, ranges to refrigerators, and whisks to wine cellars. To learn why chefs choose KitchenAid for their homes more than any other brand*, visit www.KitchenAid.com.

*Based on a September 2007 survey, KitchenAid was found to be the home kitchen appliance brand chosen most often by members of the International Association of Culinary Professionals and the American Culinary Federation when asked about refrigerators, ovens, cooktops, ranges, dishwashers, microwave ovens, electric mixers, blenders, food processors, kitchen gadgets and toasters.

Contact:    Erik Deutsch
ExcelPR Group

BakeSpace Launches Mentor Program for Home Chefs; Creates New Recipe for Food Social Networking

Novice Chefs Now Have a Place to Get Free Help from Fellow Foodies

LOS ANGELES (Business Wire EON/PRWEB ) -- BakeSpace.com – launched in August 2006 as the Web’s first food-centric social network and recipe swap – today introduced a new design and a range of features including a first-of-its-kind food mentor program that makes it easy for cooking and baking enthusiasts to help one another improve their skills in the kitchen. A lot of home chefs want to learn new skills, but don’t know where to turn for help,” said BakeSpace Founder Babette Pepaj. “Our new mentor program makes it easy for them to connect and learn from their more experienced peers, while discovering new friends along the way.”

Those who have knowledge to share can create a mentor profile tagged to specific types of foods and cooking techniques. When people browse BakeSpace’s database of member-submitted recipes and find a tasty recipe, they also find a list of related tips and mentors eager to share advice and encouragement. Members looking for help can also browse the mentor section directly to find mentors based on a variety of search criteria.

“With today’s hectic, high-tech lifestyle, it seems like there’s less time to hang out in the kitchen and learn how to cook the old-fashioned way,” Pepaj added. “The mentor program, like the rest of BakeSpace, preserves the age-old tradition of gathering in the kitchen to prepare food, share skills and socialize. On BakeSpace, great recipes are just the beginning of the journey.”

The mentor program is part of BakeSpace.com’s first head-to-toe makeover since the site, which earned back-to-back Webby Award honors in 2007 and 2008, launched nearly two years ago. In addition to a new homepage design and logo, other features introduced today improve customization, navigation and sponsor integration.

Customization – BakeSpace’s Unique “Recipe Feed” Feature

From day one, BakeSpace has been based on a unique recipe-swap platform that feeds each member’s latest recipes automatically to the online "kitchens” of members in his or her network of BakeSpace friends. Called the "Recipe Feed," this newsfeed-style system for swapping recipes helps members stay up-to-speed on what their friends are preparing in the kitchen.

With today’s redesign, the Recipe Feed has been expanded so members can automatically receive not just their friends’ recipes, but also the latest recipes from the entire BakeSpace community in specific recipe categories. When a member selects a Recipe Feed category, the latest corresponding recipes automatically start to appear in the “My Recipe Feed” box in his or her online kitchen. Selected recipe categories can be changed to accommodate dietary and lifestyle preferences, seasonal traditions, etc. Like the mentor program, BakeSpace’s Recipe Feed enhances utility, social interaction and community building.

"The Recipe Feed does more than just satisfy your craving for great recipes… it personalizes the BakeSpace experience and helps you connect with like-minded peers," added Pepaj. “It’s the online equivalent of having friends stop by your kitchen each day to chat and swap recipes.”

In addition to customizing their private online “kitchen” with friend and category-based Recipe Feeds, members can also tailor their public BakeSpace profile seen by other members and visitors to the site. It’s now easier than ever to add backgrounds, slide shows, videos, music and a range of other personalized elements. BakeSpace is unique among food-themed online communities in enabling members to add elements beyond simple photos.

“Our members are as unique and diverse as the recipes they post on the site, and most want their profiles to reflect their personality,” added Pepaj. “They don’t want anything ‘cookie-cutter’ about their kitchen, whether it’s at home or online.”

Site Navigation

With the addition of the new Mentor program, BakeSpace is now configured into five sections:
  * Recipes
  * Mentors
  * Conversations
  * Members
  * My Kitchen
Integration within and between sections has been improved with additional navigation bars, while recipe browsing and sorting has been enhanced with navigation channels that sort recipes by various categories and themes. The new homepage design introduced today also makes it easier to see at a glance what’s new in the various sections.

Sponsor Integration:

Over the past year, BakeSpace has hosted a series of unique promotions for brands such as KitchenAid, Universal, Sara Lee, FOX Searchlight and McCormick’s. Most recent was a promotion with ABC’s “Desperate Housewives” in which BakeSpace members could swap recipes inspired by the show with Bree, Edie, Susan and the other lead characters. The redesign introduced today makes it easier for sponsors to create organic promotions that engage with members and add value to the BakeSpace community. Pepaj continued, “You could say that we have developed a new ‘recipe’ for brand integration.”

Members on BakeSpace range from teenagers just starting to explore the culinary lifestyle to great-grandparents who want to share and catalogue their treasured family recipes. The common thread is a passion for food and a desire to connect and learn from one another.

Pepaj added, "The features introduced and expanded today preserve BakeSpace’s grassroots feel while helping our members connect in new and exciting ways. The goal is to create an environment where people come for the food, but stay for the conversation.”

Contact:    Erik Deutsch
ExcelPR Group

BakeSpace.com Earns Back-to-Back Webby Award Honors

LOS ANGELES -- BakeSpace.com - the Web's largest food-themed social network and recipe swap - was today named a Webby Award "Official Honoree" for the second year in a row, and was the only food-oriented site recognized in the highly competitive Social Networking Category.

Launched in August 2006, the grassroots online community serves as a virtual kitchen where members gather to post, search and exchange recipes, share culinary tips and build relationships with other foodies from around the world. The site was created to preserve and update the age-old tradition of gathering in the kitchen to cook and socialize.

"We're thrilled to be honored for the second year in a row and to share this recognition with the entire BakeSpace community," said BakeSpace Founder Babette Pepaj. "Thanks to the creativity, passion and diversity of our members, people come to BakeSpace for the food, but stay for the conversation."

Described by the New York Times as the "Oscars of the Internet," the Webby Awards honor excellence in Web sites, online film and video and interactive advertising. They are presented by the 550 members of the International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences for what the Academy deems as "outstanding work that is setting the standards for the Internet." This year's 12th annual competition included nearly 10,000 entries from all 50 states and more than 60 countries.

BakeSpace.com is designed for anyone interested in cooking or baking - whether they rely on the microwave or prepare gourmet meals from scratch. Members come from more than 170 countries, and range from teenagers just starting to explore the culinary lifestyle to great grandparents who want to share and catalogue their treasured family recipes. All share a passion for food and learning from one another.

In addition to attracting foodies from around the world, BakeSpace has partnered with brands such as KitchenAid, McCormick, Sara Lee, Kodak, Universal Studios, Fox Searchlight and ABC to host a range of unique, highly engaging promotions.

About BakeSpace.com
BakeSpace is a free online community where members can post, search and swap recipes, create their own "online kitchen," raid the "virtual pantry" (forums), upload cooking videos, conduct live cooking demonstrations and interact with other food enthusiasts from around the world.

About The Webby Awards
Hailed as the "Oscars of the Internet" by the New York Times, The Webby Awards is the leading international award honoring excellence on the Internet, including Websites, Interactive Advertising, Online Film & Video, and Mobile Websites. Established in 1996, the 12th Annual Webby Awards received nearly 10,000 entries from all 50 states and over 60 countries worldwide. The Webby Awards is presented by The International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences.

About the International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences (IADAS)
The International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences is dedicated to the creative, technical, and professional progress of the internet and interactive media. The Academy is an intellectually diverse organization that includes over 550 members consisting of leading experts in a diverse range of fields, such as musician David Bowie, Virgin Group founder Richard Branson, AKQA Global Creative Director Rei Inamoto, "Simpsons" creator Matt Groening, Real Networks CEO Rob Glaser, The Huffington Post's Arianna Huffington, AKQA Global Creative Director Rei Inamoto and The Weinstein Company's Harvey Weinstein. The Webby Awards and The International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences are registered trademarks of International Data Group.

Contact:    Erik Deutsch
ExcelPR Group

BakeSpace.com Marks One-Year Anniversary as Web's Largest Food-Themed Social Network

LOS ANGELES -- It has been a fast-paced and memorable first year for BakeSpace.com -- the online social network and recipe exchange for people who are passionate about food. Launched on August 22, 2006, BakeSpace has grown to nearly 15,000 members who gather on the site to post, search, and exchange recipes, share culinary tips and build relationships with other food enthusiasts from around the world. Together they have posted more than 22,000 recipes on the BakeSpace Community Cookbook.

"Our goal is to preserve and update the age-old tradition of gathering in the kitchen to cook and socialize," said BakeSpace Founder Babette Pepaj. "Over the past year, BakeSpace members have built a grassroots community where they can share their passion for all things food related."

BakeSpace is designed for anyone interested in cooking or baking, whether they rely on the microwave or like to prepare gourmet meals from scratch. The site's members come from 174 countries, and range from teenagers just starting to explore the culinary lifestyle to great grandparents who want to share and catalogue their treasured family recipes. The common thread among members is their passion for food and learning from one another.

"On BakeSpace, recipes are just the beginning of the journey," explained Pepaj. "People truly come for the food, and stay for the conversation."

In addition to attracting foodies from around the world, BakeSpace has hosted unique and highly engaging promotions for blue chip brands such as KitchenAid, Universal Studios and Fox Searchlight. Among the highlights during the first year was the month-long "Appliance-a-Day" Giveaway, which was KitchenAid's first collaboration with an online social network. Commenting on the Giveaway, Deb O'Connor, KitchenAid's senior manager of brand experience, said, "We're excited to be part of an initiative that truly redefines how culinary enthusiasts interact with each other."

Leading consumer brands will continue to benefit from BakeSpace's safe, targeted and highly engaging marketing platform, which is free from many of the challenges marketers face with general interest social networks.

Brands will also benefit from BakeSpace's growing membership, which achieved a compound monthly growth rate of more than 120% during the first year. During the July KitchenAid Giveaway, BakeSpace traffic exceeded traffic on many of the largest food-related lifestyle sites, including MarthaStewart.com.

BakeSpace has also earned accolades for its functionality, ease of use, and friendly, grassroots style. Competing against a record 8,000 entries, the site was named a 2007 Webby Award Official Honoree, and was the only food-oriented site recognized in the popular "Social Networking" category.

In describing BakeSpace, CNET's Chow.com declared, "Move over Friendster and MySpace -- now there's something tastier! The newest social networking website to hit the scene is geared toward the food obsessed, and it's called BakeSpace." Scripps Howard similarly reported, "The site is easy to use, and full of dishes that everyday cooks might actually want to make. The space may be virtual, but the food is real."

Other reviewers included Bon Appetit, which described the site as, "Charming in its simplicity, country kitchen aesthetic and ease of use, BakeSpace is an open invitation not only to bakers, but to cooks of all kinds." The TechCrunch blog said, "If you like Martha Stewart and watching Oprah while baking cookies, you're probably going to like BakeSpace.com."

Pepaj said of the first year, "It's been a wild ride filled with wonderful new members, amazing recipes and exciting promotions, as well as lots of learning along the way. The BakeSpace community is here to stay, and we're working to make the site even better."

About BakeSpace.com
Launched in August 2006, BakeSpace has grown to become the Web's largest food-themed social network. Members of the free site can post, search and swap recipes in their own "online kitchen," raid the "virtual pantry" (forums), chat in the "Tearoom," upload videos, create blogs and conduct their own live cooking classes.

Contact:    Erik Deutsch
ExcelPR Group

Month-Long Giveaway Marks First Collaboration Between Renowned Kitchen Appliance Brand and an Online Social Network

LOS ANGELES -- BakeSpace.com -- the online social network and recipe exchange for people who are passionate about food - is teaming up with KitchenAid to give away a premium KitchenAid brand appliance each day throughout July. Appliances up for grabs include slow cookers, food processors, mixers and blenders. In addition, two Professional 600 Series stand mixers will be awarded as grand prizes at the end of the month.

"We're thrilled to be teaming up with KitchenAid to give away some truly amazing appliances," said BakeSpace Founder Babette Pepaj. "The Appliance-a-Day Giveaway rewards 'cookers and cakers' who are helping one another build the world's largest food social network." KitchenAid Senior Manager of Brand Experience Deb O'Connor added, "We're excited to be part of an initiative that truly redefines how culinary enthusiasts interact with each other." The BakeSpace Appliance-a-Day Giveaway marks the company's first collaboration with an online social network.

Each day in July, BakeSpace members who upload original recipes or refer new members will earn raffle tickets and be entered automatically into that day's giveaway; the more recipes and/or friends, the better the chance of winning. Each day's winner will be selected via a random drawing, and announced after midnight Eastern Daylight Time. A running tally of each member's daily and month-long point totals will be published on the site. On August 1st, the members who earned the most overall points during the month in each category will each win a grand prize.

The giveaway is open to all BakeSpace members. Membership is free, and joining the site takes just a couple of minutes.

About BakeSpace.com
Since it was launched in August 2006, the BakeSpace community has grown to include more than 10,000 members who use the site to post, search and exchange recipes, share culinary tips and build relationships with other food enthusiasts from around the world. Members can build their own "online kitchen," raid the site's "virtual pantry," upload videos, conduct their own live cooking classes and create blogs. BakeSpace was named a 2007 Webby Award Official Honoree. More information is available at www.BakeSpace.com.

About KitchenAid
Since the introduction of its legendary stand mixer in 1919 and first dishwasher in 1949, KitchenAid has built on the legacy of these icons to create a complete line of products designed for cooks. From countertop appliances to cookware, ranges to refrigerators, and whisks to wine cellars, KitchenAid now offers virtually every essential for the well-equipped kitchen. To learn why chefs choose KitchenAid for their homes more than any other brand*, visit www.KitchenAid.com.

*Based on a September 2005 survey, KitchenAid was found to be the home kitchen appliance brand chosen most often by members of the International Association of Culinary Professionals when asked about refrigerators, ovens, cooktops, ranges, dishwashers, microwave ovens, electronic mixers, blenders, food processors and toasters.

Contact:    Erik Deutsch
ExcelPR Group

Pet Lovers Find, Post and Share Recipes on Food Social Network

LOS ANGELES -- Members of BakeSpace.com -- the online community for people who are passionate about food -- are using the site to post and share recipes for homemade dog and cat treats.

The site's global cookbook includes a rapidly growing "Woof and Meow Treats" section with recipes such as "Snicker Poodles" and "Cat Attack Cookies" submitted by BakeSpace members from around the world. In addition, the site's Pantry forum area includes a section called "Pet Place," where members share related tips and ideas.

BakeSpace member interest in recipes for homemade pet food has grown following reports about contamination in the commercial pet food supply.

While the do-it-yourself recipes may not be intended as a long-term substitute for store bought pet food, they offer a short-term or special occasion alternative that can help create a unique bond between people and their pets.

"Pets are members of the family, and occasionally substituting commercial food with a homemade treat can be a fun way to pamper your four-legged friends," said BakeSpace Founder Babette Pepaj.

Pepaj is quick to point out that some animal care professionals have expressed concern that homemade pet food may not contain the optimal combination of nutrients pets require for long-term health. This echoes a recent statement by The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) urging "pet parents to fully research homemade diets for pets before pulling out the chef's hat." Proponents of homemade pet food counter that it contains less filler and fewer artificial additives, and is therefore a healthy, wholesome alternative.

Widespread concern over the commercial pet food supply began in Mid-March, when it was reported that food sold nationwide was tainted with a chemical called melamine. It was determined that the melamine was present in contaminated wheat gluten used by pet food manufacturers to increase protein content.

About BakeSpace.com
BakeSpace was launched in August 2006 as the first true social networking site for people who are passionate about food, cooking and the culinary lifestyle. Members of the free online community can search and swap recipes, create their own "online kitchen," raid the site's "virtual pantry," share cooking tips, upload videos, create blogs and build relationships with other food enthusiasts from around the world. BakeSpace was named a 2007 Webby Award Official Honoree.

Contact:    Erik Deutsch
ExcelPR Group

BakeSpace.com Earns Webby Award "Official Honoree" Distinction

LOS ANGELES -- BakeSpace.com -- the first true social networking site for people who are passionate about food, cooking and the culinary lifestyle -- has been named a 2007 Webby Award "Official Honoree."

The Webby Awards have been described by the New York Times as the online equivalent of the Oscars. Judged by the International Academy of Digital Arts & Sciences (IADAS), the Awards honor the best Web sites for what the Academy deems "outstanding work that is setting the standard for the Internet."

This year's competition included a record 8,000 entries from more than 60 countries and all 50 U.S. states. BakeSpace was the only food-oriented site recognized in the popular Social Networking category.

"BakeSpace.com's selection as an 'Official Honoree' is a testament to the skill, ingenuity and vision of its creators," said Webby Award Executive Director David-Michel Davies.

Launched in August 2006, BakeSpace is a free, independent online community where members swap recipes, share ideas and build relationships with foodies from around the world.

"We're proud to be honored alongside some of the largest and most popular sites on the Web," said Babette Pepaj, BakeSpace.com's founder. "BakeSpace is a grassroots community created by and for everyone who believes that the kitchen is the most important room in the house."

About BakeSpace.com
BakeSpace.com is a free online community that combines the functionality of traditional online recipe databases with robust social networking. Members can create their own "online kitchen," search and swap recipes, share culinary tips, upload cooking videos, create blogs and chat with other food enthusiasts from around the world. BakeSpace was recently listed along with MySpace, LinkedIn and Classmates.com as one of the most popular social networks to watch by interactive media and marketing site iMediaConnection. More information is available at www.bakespace.com.

About The Webby Awards
Hailed as the "Oscars of the Internet" by the New York Times, The Webby is the leading international award honoring excellence on the Internet, including Websites, Interactive Advertising, Online Film & Video and Mobile Websites. The Webby Award was established in 1996, and is presented by The International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences.

About the International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences (IADAS)
IADAS is dedicated to the creative, technical, and professional progress of the internet and interactive media. The Academy is an intellectually diverse organization that includes more than 500 members consisting of leading experts in a range of fields. The Webby Awards and The International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences are registered trademarks.

Contact:    Erik Deutsch
ExcelPR Group

BakeSpace.com Launched as First True Social Networking Site for Cooking Enthusiasts

Members Can Share Recipes and Connect with Other Food Buffs on Site Created By and For People Who Love to Cook

LOS ANGELES -- BakeSpace.com launched today as the first niche online community for cooking enthusiasts that combines recipe sharing with comprehensive social networking. While many culinary-themed websites offer recipes and message boards, BakeSpace.com is unique in that members can post, search and share recipes, customize their own “online kitchen,” raid the site’s “virtual pantry,” make new friends, create blogs, upload photos and video, download coupons, and communicate in real-time with other members via instant messaging and chat. Today’s launch comes after weeks of beta testing. New members can register in just a couple of minutes, and the site is totally free.

“BakeSpace is designed for just about anyone interested in cooking, whether they rely on the microwave or like to prepare gourmet meals from scratch,” said television producer/director and BakeSpace.com Founder Babette Pepaj. “While the site has many advanced features, it’s as easy to use as making toast.”

BakeSpace is an independent online network with user-generated content. Unlike most niche social networking sites, it is not owned or affiliated with a media/publishing company or marketing arm of a major corporation. BakeSpace was developed with a grassroots sensibility for people who are passionate about cooking.

The popularity of the epicurean lifestyle BakeSpace celebrates is affirmed by the proliferation of specialty food stores and cooking-themed radio/TV shows with celebrity “telechefs.” The site is designed to serve a “niche” that is exceptionally large and diverse. Cooking enthusiasts in the U.S. alone represent a $25 billion market, according to a May 2006 report by research firm Mintel International Group.

People have always gathered in the kitchen to cook, eat and engage in conversation. BakeSpace helps keep this social tradition alive in today’s fast-paced world by enabling them to connect in their virtual kitchen with the click of a mouse.

“For many people, the kitchen is the most important room in their home,” Pepaj added.  “But even the most passionate chef can sometimes forget that cooking should be fun. BakeSpace was created to enable members to share their kitchen with like-minded people from around the globe, and in the process forge new friendships and exercise their passion for one of life’s great pleasures.”

Contact:    Erik Deutsch
ExcelPR Group