Recipes
Eric Altom Honored with Prestigious 2025 Friend of Pet Food Award
2025-01-29

In a remarkable recognition of his contributions to the pet food industry, Eric Altom, Ph.D., has been bestowed with the 2025 Friend of Pet Food Award by the American Feed Industry Association (AFIA). This accolade highlights Dr. Altom's extensive involvement in advancing research and development within the field, as well as his dedication to mentoring future leaders. The award was presented on January 28 at the AFIA Pet Food Conference, which coincided with the International Production and Processing Expo this week. Since its inception in 2019, the award has celebrated individuals who have significantly supported the growth of the pet food sector.

Achievements and Milestones

During the golden days of late January, Charles Starkey, Ph.D., and Jessica Starkey, Ph.D., formally honored Eric Altom, Ph.D., with the distinguished Friend of Pet Food Award at the annual AFIA Pet Food Conference. Held alongside the International Production and Processing Expo, this event marked another milestone in Dr. Altom's illustrious career. As the director of innovation for companion animals and a technical nutritionist at Balchem Animal Nutrition and Health, Dr. Altom has dedicated over two decades to enhancing pet nutrition through groundbreaking research and innovative product development.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Dr. Altom is renowned for his unwavering commitment to nurturing the next generation of professionals. He actively engages in various initiatives aimed at fostering young talent, providing invaluable guidance on research projects, career advice, and networking opportunities. His involvement extends to numerous industry events such as the Pet Food Alliance meetings, Auburn University’s Imaginarium Workshops, and Kansas State University’s Kibblecon. These efforts underscore his dedication to ensuring the long-term prosperity of the pet food industry.

Prior to his current role, Dr. Altom earned degrees from prestigious institutions, including a bachelor’s degree in animal science from Tennessee Technological University, a master’s degree in nutrition from Clemson University, and a doctorate in animal science-nutrition from Auburn University. In addition to the recent Friend of Pet Food Award, he received AFIA’s Member of the Year award in 2022, further cementing his status as a leading figure in the field.

The AFIA Friend of Pet Food Award, established in 2019, recognizes individuals who have made substantial contributions to the growth and advancement of the pet food industry. To date, nine recipients have been honored with this prestigious award, each contributing uniquely to the field's progress.

From a journalist's perspective, Dr. Altom's recognition serves as an inspiring testament to the importance of mentorship and innovation in driving industry growth. His achievements not only highlight the significance of continuous research and development but also emphasize the value of fostering new talent. Dr. Altom's work sets a commendable example for others in the field, encouraging a culture of support and collaboration that will undoubtedly shape the future of the pet food industry.

Student Chefs Showcase Culinary Skills at Highland Grille Food Truck
2025-01-29

In an exciting culinary event, the student chefs from Westerly High School’s Career and Technical Education program have taken to the streets with their very own food truck. This initiative offers a unique opportunity for young culinary enthusiasts to showcase their skills and serve up delectable seasonal dishes. The Highland Grille Food Truck presented a menu featuring squash soup, mulled cider, and other mouthwatering treats. Through this hands-on experience, students gain valuable insights into the food industry while delighting local food lovers. Events like these also highlight the growing popularity of food trucks as a vibrant part of the culinary scene.

The culinary arts program at Westerly High School has been making waves with its innovative approach to education. By introducing students to real-world cooking scenarios, the school aims to prepare them for successful careers in the culinary field. On a recent Friday, the Highland Grille Food Truck rolled out its latest offerings, giving the community a taste of what these budding chefs can create. The day's menu featured a hearty squash soup that perfectly captured the essence of the season, along with a warm and spiced mulled cider that provided comfort on a crisp autumn afternoon. Students worked diligently behind the scenes, mastering the art of preparation and presentation, all while serving satisfied customers.

The Highland Grille Food Truck is more than just a mobile kitchen; it serves as a practical learning tool for aspiring chefs. Each dish prepared by the students reflects their dedication and passion for culinary arts. Beyond the delicious meals, this initiative fosters a sense of pride and accomplishment among the participants. The support from the community has been overwhelming, with many returning for repeat visits to try new creations. As word spreads about the quality of food served by the Highland Grille Food Truck, it has become a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts in the area.

The success of the Highland Grille Food Truck demonstrates the importance of experiential learning in culinary education. It not only provides students with essential skills but also bridges the gap between classroom theory and professional practice. Such initiatives encourage creativity and innovation, allowing students to experiment with flavors and techniques. As the Highland Grille continues to thrive, it sets an inspiring example for other educational programs looking to integrate practical experiences into their curriculum. The future looks bright for these young chefs, who are well on their way to becoming the next generation of culinary stars.

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Florida Car Dealer Faces Serious Allegations Over Unpaid Sales Tax
2025-01-29

In a recent development, a car dealership owner in Palm Beach County has come under scrutiny for allegedly mishandling substantial sums of sales tax. The Florida Department of Revenue has accused Claudio Borgia, the de facto owner of Car Guys Auto Sales LLC, of failing to remit a significant portion of collected sales tax over a multi-year period. According to the department, Borgia collected nearly $93,201 in sales tax from customers between July 2019 and January 2024 but only submitted slightly more than $41,863 to the state, leaving an unaccounted balance of over $51,300. This case highlights the importance of adhering to tax regulations and the potential consequences of non-compliance.

Detailed Report on the Allegations Against Car Dealership Owner

In the heart of Palm Beach County, Florida, an investigation has uncovered serious allegations against Claudio Borgia, the primary contact for Car Guys Auto Sales LLC, a limited liability company registered since May 2019. The Florida Department of Revenue has revealed that Borgia is accused of collecting sales tax from customers without fully remitting it to the state. From July 2019 to January 2024, the dealership amassed a total of $93,201 in sales tax, yet only $41,863 was forwarded to the authorities, leaving a discrepancy of $51,337.

Borgia, who had access to the business's bank accounts and was responsible for electronic filing, was reportedly aware of his tax obligations. Evidence suggests he regularly communicated with revenue specialists and documented the sales tax collected. Despite having sufficient funds in the business account to cover the owed taxes, Borgia allegedly failed to meet his financial responsibilities. Multiple attempts by the Revenue Department to resolve the delinquencies were unsuccessful, leading to further scrutiny.

In conversations with investigators, Borgia admitted to filing some sales tax returns but acknowledged outstanding payments. The charges against him include failing to remit sales tax in excess of $20,000 but less than $100,000, a violation that underscores the severity of the situation.

This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of strict adherence to tax laws and the potential legal ramifications of non-compliance. For businesses, especially those handling large sums of money, transparency and accountability are paramount. It also highlights the need for robust internal controls to prevent such discrepancies from occurring. Readers and business owners alike should take note of this incident as a cautionary tale about the critical nature of fulfilling financial obligations to regulatory bodies.

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