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The Machine Shed Restaurant Wins National Turkey Federation's

Midwest Chain Menus Eight Different Turkey Options

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LONG BEACH, CALIF., February 1, 2005 -

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT:
Sherrie Rosenblatt, National Turkey Federation
202-898-0100 ext. 227, srosenblatt@turkeyfed.org
or Maryanne Keeney, Devine & Pearson
617-472-2700 ext. 137 mkeeney@devine-pearson.com

At its annual convention today, the National Turkey Federation (NTF) presented The Machine Shed Restaurant the 2004 Turkey on the Menu (T.O.M) award. The award, which was presented before an audience of 600 turkey industry representatives, recognizes this multi-unit restaurant for its menu innovation and market success with turkey menu applications. Machine Shed has seven locations in the Midwest, offers eight turkey items, including its bestseller, Roast Turkey and Sage Dressing with Pan Gravy and is launching an on-line and catalog sales distribution channel that will feature turkey.

"The National Turkey Federation is proud to honor The Machine Shed for its depth of unique turkey applications and versatility. It meets all the requirements fore creating enthusiasm and market success," comments Sherrie Rosenblatt, NTF’s senior director of marketing and communications. "It’s inventive array of turkey entrees both please and appeal to children and adults."

Restaurant chains eligible for the T.O.M. award were nominated by the NTF membership, which represents nearly 100 percent of the turkey produced in the United States. Members submitted a summary describing the chain’s turkey items, its consumer appeal, marketing and promotion and how these efforts position turkey as a profitable option for other foodservice operations. Each year a jury of experienced foodservice professionals rate each entry on how the turkey application addresses versatility, taste, convenience and consumer appeal. Additionally, judges awarded points for how the chain’s turkey menu item met consumer needs for visual appeal, portion size, versatility, taste and value.

"Sara Lee and Iowa Turkey Federation are delighted that our nomination, The Machine Shed, won this prestigious title," said Gretta Irwin, executive director of the Iowa Turkey Federation. "Machine Shed has a true appreciation of the flexibility and menu options that are available with turkey."

First started 27 years ago in a 100-seat coffee shop in Davenport, Iowa, The Machine Shed serves quality poultry, meats and vegetables representing the Midwest. Today, the restaurant boasts 500 seats per location and menus turkey in a multiple ways. Some signature items include Smoked Turkey Reuben and Turkey Filet Mignon.

"The Machine Shed is honored to accept this award. Turkey is a favorite item among our customers and we enjoy menuing it in unique ways," said Jeff Grunder, Chief Operating Executive, The Machine Shed. "Turkey’s exceptional nutritional values and versatility makes it a perfect ingredient for family dining."

About The National Turkey Federation The National Turkey Federation (NTF) is the national advocate for all segments of the turkey industry, providing services and conducting activities that increase demand for its members' products by protecting and enhancing their ability to profitably provide wholesome, high-quality, nutritious products. Its award-winning web site, www.EatTurkey.com, offers consumers, food professionals and the media an extensive library of information including healthy eating and restaurant trends, turkey cuts and purchasing tips, turkey nutrition and cooking techniques, and turkey facts and trivia. Additionally, the site presents a searchable database of more than 700 recipes, offers a recipe E-mail program and provides special seasonal and holiday ideas. The National Turkey Federation is headquartered in Washington, D.C.