Welcome to "Catching Up With Cottie" - a weekly update about what I am working on as your representative in the California State Assembly.
I hope everyone had a fun and festive Fourth of July!
I kicked off the holiday at the Costa Mesa Independence Day Celebration, where I spent the evening sharing local and state resources, enjoying live entertainment, and taking in a spectacular fireworks show.
The next morning, I had the pleasure of participating in the 57th Annual Tustin Meadows Fourth of July Parade—another joyful tradition surrounded by an energetic and welcoming community.
As we honor our nation's 249th anniversary of independence, let us remember how much stronger we are when we support one another, whether it is lending a hand, sharing opportunities, or just showing up.
I am grateful for the opportunity to serve, and I am committed to addressing the issues that are important to you. As always, if there is anything that my team or I can do to assist you with a local or state issue, if you have questions or concerns about what I am working on, or anything in between, please contact my office. My team and I are here to help!
Yours faithfully,
Cottie Petrie-Norris
California State Assemblywoman
Join us for the 2nd Annual IgniteHer Girls Summit — an inspiring day of workshops, speakers, and empowering conversations designed to help incoming 7th-11th grade girls lead with confidence and spark change in your community. You will connect with visionary leaders, hear from an incredible keynote speaker, and leave with the tools and support to turn your ideas into action. Don't miss this chance to ignite your future!
I am partnering with the California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation (DFPI) for a free, informative webinar on how to protect yourself from identity theft. You will learn how to spot the warning signs of cybercrime, bank fraud, phishing scams, and more — plus get practical tips to keep your personal information safe. Don't miss this opportunity to stay informed and take control of your financial security!
Last week, I presented my bill, AB 1385, to the Senate Judiciary Committee. In times of crisis, Californians deserve a swift and effective response — not just in emergency services, but in rebuilding our communities. AB 1385 removes unnecessary barriers that delay construction near disaster areas, allowing new housing to move forward more quickly. This bill ensures that those displaced have access to safe, timely housing when it's needed most.
As we continue to face the devastating effects of wildfires and other natural disasters, Californians are feeling the impact—not just on their homes, but also in the rising cost and limited availability of insurance. The Assembly Insurance Committee held a substantive discussion on the path forward, emphasizing the need for regulatory reform and the role of the California Department of Insurance in protecting consumers while creating conditions that encourage insurers to remain in the state.
COMMUNITY RECOGNITION
Spa Food House has long been a community favorite — a place where many can enjoy a variety of authentic Korean dishes while unwinding, recharging, and taking care of their well-being. Team Cottie was glad to recognize the positive impact they continue to have in the District. Wishing them continued success in the years to come!
Sharkey's Cuts for Kids have been making the hair-trimming experience for toddlers, tweens, and early teens a fun experience to looking forward to for years in Orange County. Team Cottie was happy to visit Sharkey's unique and entertaining salon in Irvine to recognize their ongoing commitment to the children of the 73rd district. We wish them all the best!
RESOURCES
Are you a restaurant owner? Join the Orange County/Inland Empire Small Business Development Center for a free webinar on Wednesday, July 23, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., to optimize your business operations and boost profitability.
July is Parks and Recreation Month! Here in District 73, we're fortunate to have countless opportunities to explore and enjoy the outdoors in Costa Mesa, Irvine, and Tustin. Whether you're taking a stroll, playing sports, or simply soaking in nature, there's a park for everyone.
Check out the local park lists below to plan your next visit:
Starting this summer, you can buy more food for your child with California SUN Bucks, also called Summer-EBT. SUN Bucks works just like CalFresh, but for the summer. Children who qualify for free or reduced-price school meals through a school meal application or an Alternative Income Form, or get CalFresh, CalWORKs, or Medi-Cal, are automatically enrolled. You don't need to do anything to sign up. SUN Bucks provides $40 per month for food for June, July and August 2025 ($120 total).
Tustin Unified School District is offering free, nutritious meals to children ages 1–18 through its Summer Meal Program, running from June 2 to August 1. The program aims to ensure continued access to healthy food while school is out of session. No enrollment, paperwork, or income verification is required.
Meals are available Monday through Friday at two locations: the Boys and Girls Club (580 W. Sixth St.) offers breakfast from 7:30–8:30 a.m. and lunch from 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m., while the Tustin Public Library (345 E. Main St.) offers lunch from 12–1 p.m. Sites will be closed on June 19 and July 4 in observance of holidays. Per federal guidelines, all meals must be consumed on site.
Need Help with a State Agency?
Our office can assist with issues involving California state agencies like the Employment Development Department (EDD), Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), Franchise Tax Board (FTB), and Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA). Whether you are dealing with delayed benefits, licensing issues, or tax concerns, we are here to help navigate the process.
Beat the heat and bring the fun indoors at Sweet Shade in Irvine! From solving puzzles at Game Night to stretching it out in Adaptive Yoga, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Looking to connect with others? Don't miss their free Parent Workshops, hosted by Renee Carleson, creator of A Sensory Bee. These supportive sessions offer practical tools and resources for families of children under 18, with all ages welcome.
🗓 Tuesdays, July 1 & 15
🕚 11 a.m. – Noon
📍 Sweet Shade
👉 https://tinyurl.com/3vd26amh
It's a great way to try something new, meet new people, and keep cool all summer long. Browse the full lineup of Disability Services programs at yourirvine.org, or call 949-724-6637 with any questions.
Struggling with a broken car A/C? The Cool Air Rebate (CAR) Program may be able to help. This state-funded program covers 90% of the cost to fix a specific refrigerant leak (R-134a) in vehicles made between 1993 and 2019. Eligible low-income Californians—including those enrolled in Medi-Cal, CalFresh, CalWorks, or Healthy Families—can apply online and, if approved, receive repairs for just a fraction of the usual cost.
On average, customers pay just $110 out of pocket for a $1,100 repair. The program is available in over 110 cities, with nearly 230 participating shops in Southern California alone. Free leak testing is also available at approved locations.
To learn more, check eligibility, or find a local repair shop, visit CoolAirRebate.org or call 888-534-4728.
Español | 한국인 | Tiếng Việt | فارسي
2-1-1 Orange County (2110C) is a FREE service that connects you to thousands of local health and human services resources to help with:
- Domestic Violence
- Food/Cal Fresh
- Healthcare
- Housing
- Income & Financial Support
- Job Resources
- Mental Health
- Senior Care
- Substance Use
- Veteran/Military Support
Staffed by caring trained specialists, help is available 24/7 in more than 200 languages. All calls are free and confidential. Access the 2110C partner network to streamline multiservice needs and coordinate care.
Extreme heat can be dangerous for anyone—especially during prolonged heatwaves. High temperatures can lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion, or even heat stroke.
Stay safe by visiting a nearby cooling center when the weather heats up: OC Cooling Centers
Find more ways to stay cool and prepared: HeatReadyCA.com.
UPCOMING EVENTS
July 9 - Protect Yourself From ID Theft Webinar
Assemblywoman Cottie Petrie-Norris and the California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation (DFPI) are hosting a free webinar to help you learn how to protect yourself from identity theft. Topics will include cybercrime, bank fraud, online scams, and phishing attacks.
July 18 - IgniteHER Girls Summit
Assemblywoman Cottie Petrie-Norris and Girls Inc. of Orange County invite 7th-11th Grade girls to participate in a FREE IgniteHER Girls Summit on Friday, July 18, from 10:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. at Irvine Valley College.
Imagine being surrounded by amazing visionaries, thought leaders, and trailblazers, all there to inspire you. With engaging workshops and discussions focused on fueling your success, you'll leave with all the tools, knowledge, and support to spark change in your community and beyond!
Students will also have the opportunity to hear from a keynote speaker and panelists sharing their experiences in fueling their futures.
A new certified farmers market is coming to Old Town Tustin! Kicking off Saturday, July 12, it will take place every Saturday from 8 AM to noon, year-round.
You will find it at the corner of El Camino Real and 3rd Street, featuring popular local farmers, food vendors, and a few new additions.
For more information, visit www.ocfarmbureau.org.
Nominate a Tustin Superhero!
The 17th annual Superheroes of Tustin Awards Celebration is set for Monday, August 11, 2025, from 4:00 to 6:00 PM at the Community Center at the Market Place.
This Oscars-style event honors the everyday volunteers who make Tustin stronger—from youth coaches and tutors to food drive organizers and nonprofit leaders. Each honoree will receive a gift bag and the signature red cape.
Do you know someone who goes above and beyond to support the Tustin community? Nominate them by July 31!
Location: 2961 El Camino Real, Tustin, CA
Nominate today!
Movies on the Lawn:
Hicks Canyon Community Park | Food trucks at 6 p.m. | Movies begin after sunset
Watch family-favorite films under the stars on a giant outdoor screen. Guests are invited to bring low-back chairs, blankets, and picnic meals, or enjoy gourmet options from food trucks on-site. Movies begin after sunset and are weather permitting.
- Friday, July 18— Mufasa: The Lion King (PG)
- Friday, July 25— Sonic the Hedgehog 3 (PG)
- Friday, August 8— Inside Out 2 (PG)
Summer Concerts:
Mike Ward Community Park — Woodbridge | Concerts begin at 5:30 p.m.
Enjoy live performances that bring a range of musical styles to the park, from soulful blues to classic rock and '90s throwbacks. Guests can bring their own snacks or purchase food from gourmet trucks available at each event.
- Saturday, July 19— Family Style Blues and Soul
- Saturday, July 26— 1969 The Tribute '60s Rock and Roll
- Saturday, August 2— Your Mom '90s and more
- Saturday, August 9— DW3 R&B, Soul, Old School Funk
