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The California Walnut Board hired Saarah Kuzay as director of research and technical affairs. Leticia Palamidessi was appointed assistant secretary for communications at the California Natural Resources Agency. David Silva of Buellton was appointed to the California Air Resources Board. The National Council of Agricultural Employers promoted Susan Lester to director of external affairs and operations. David Hinojosa has been named CEO of Heritage Grocers Group.

The California Retailers Association made staff promotions for Sarah Pollo Moo and Ryan Allain. Alexa Fox, who worked for Rep. Jim Costa, D-Calif., for the past nearly 10 years, joined Monument Advocacy as vice president on the food and agriculture team. Kristin Heidelbach is now vice president of government and public affairs at cannabis retail company, Embarc. Jenica Maldonado, a labor and employment attorney in California, rejoined Hanson Bridgett LLP as a partner in the employer services section. Longtime Sierra Club leader Michael Brune launched a climate change-focused investment and philanthropy fund called Clean Break. Audra Weeks, who was deputy chief of staff for policy at the Agriculture Department, departed USDA.

Rob Trice, a champion for modern food, agriculture and technology systems, passed away while traveling overseas.