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Samantha Hayes ReportingThe USA house is sort of a home away from home for the U.S. Athletes during the Olympics, and that includes a great meal. Samantha Hayes talked to the woman in charge of making sure everything tastes good.
They don't let just anybody do this. Maxine Turner has a lot of experience. Her company is based out of Salt Lake City. She got her first Olympic contract in the 1996 Olympic games and she keeps getting invited back.
When they are off the slopes, the ice, or the track, there's a hot meal waiting at the U.S.A house for the athletes.
Maxine Turner, Pres., Culinary Expressions Intl.: "From the day we opened, it was like they knew we were here. And we have far exceeded, sometimes doubled and tripled the numbers we've been guaranteed. So the chefs are really kept hoping."
Culinary expressions started in Salt Lake City. Now she caters international events all over the world. For these Olympic Games she employs 35 people, including some of thee best chefs from the U.S.
Maxine Turner: "Even though there is this food that is predominate in Italy, people love American cuisine when they are away from home, that's what hits the spot."
The numbers are not in yet from Torino, but in Salt Lake City in 2002, Maxine Turner's company produced 350-thousand meals during game time.
Maxine Turner: "The excitement the adrenaline, it is so exciting to see these athletes and everything they sacrifice. We are here to compliment that effort."
This is Maxine Turner's fourth time catering for the Olympics. You could say she's the woman of the house and knows many of the athletes who come through the doors.
Maxine Turner runs the company with her husband and they are already looking forward to the 2008 Summer Games in Beijing.
