Welcome to "Catching Up With Cottie" - a weekly update about what I am working on as your representative in the California State Assembly.
Our second annual IgniteHER Summit, in partnership with Girls Inc. of Orange County, was a fantastic success—an inspiring and energizing afternoon that brought together more than 200 7th-11th Grade girls from across the district to focus on confidence, leadership, and possibility.
A special thank you to our keynote speaker, Joone Kim-Lopez, whose powerful message set the tone for the day with energy, authenticity, and insight. I am also grateful to Irvine Valley College for generously opening its doors to host the summit, as well as to the many partners, volunteers, and supporters who helped make this event a reality.
It was an honor to welcome remarkable leaders who shared their expertise and encouragement, including Sybil Crum, Vice President of Marketing and Commercial Strategy at The Walt Disney Company; Jameeka Green Aaron, CISSP and Chief Information Security Officer at Headspace; Dr. Martha A. McDonald, Ed.D., Vice President for Student Services at Irvine Valley College; and Sona Shah, CEO and Founder of My Private Professor. Their involvement truly enriched the experience for everyone.
It became clear to me watching these bright young participants engage in conversations, connect with mentors, and explore their potential: the future is in strong, capable hands. The next generation of change makers is already here—and they are just getting started.
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
I was proud to join a press conference in support of AB 571, which advances the development of the Gypsum Canyon Veterans Cemetery. As a coauthor of the bill, I'm committed to helping ensure Orange County's more than 90,000 veterans—brave men and women who have made profound sacrifices for our country—have a dignified final resting place here at home.
Thank you to Assemblywoman Sharon Quirk-Silva for her leadership and continued dedication to making this long awaited project a reality.
Together, we are working to provide veterans and their families the respect and honor they deserve.
Watch more here.
This past week, I presented my bill package, and am proud to share that the following will be advancing through the Senate—AB 334, AB 366, AB 420, AB 451, AB 550, AB 825, AB 881, AB 915, AB 963, and AB 1385. These pieces of legislation collectively tackle a variety of challenges, including improving transportation systems, enhancing public safety, reducing project delays, supporting clean energy development, addressing rising utility costs, and promoting affordable housing near disaster-affected areas.
By streamlining processes, strengthening enforcement, and updating outdated regulations, this legislation aims to create safer, more efficient, and more sustainable communities for all Californians.
I'm excited to share a new video highlighting our inaugural Young Legislators Program, where 29 passionate high school students from Costa Mesa, Irvine, and Tustin explored California's legislative process and public policy.
These young leaders learned directly from officials and community experts, and toured places like the Orange County Fire Authority and UCI's Nursing Simulation Lab. Their dedication culminated in a visit to Sacramento, where they presented their own bill proposals.
Thanks to our amazing partners, this program gave students a unique chance to engage with government and public service. I'm already looking forward to welcoming the next cohort—applications open this fall!
We're so grateful to have had Jade on our team this summer! Her focus, initiative, and positive attitude made a real impact in our office. Thank you, Jade, for all you've contributed — we're excited to see what you do next and wish you all the best in your journey ahead.
COMMUNITY RECOGNITION
After 37 years of tireless service at Second Harvest Food Bank, Joyce Foley is officially retiring. Driven by her passion and commitment to giving back to the community, Joyce served in a variety of roles throughout her career, including her current position as Chief Financial Officer. We are so grateful for your leadership and dedication to feeding families in Orange County. Wishing you a wonderful retirement filled with joy and new experiences!
This week, Team Cottie joined Pure Barre in celebrating their 10-year anniversary! For the past decade, Pure Barre has supported the Tustin community by providing dynamic, effective full-body workouts that transform both mind and body. Wishing you many more years of continued success!
Big congratulations on the completion of a brand-new basketball and pickle ball court at Balearic Park in Costa Mesa! These exciting additions provide more space for residents of all ages to get outside and enjoy some fun. Whether you are spending time with family and friends, hosting a tournament, or playing a quick scrimmage—the courts are ready for you!
RESOURCES
Diaper & Infant Items Drive-Thru Distribution
On August 1st, Community Action Partnership of Orange County and the OC Diaper Bank are hosting a special distribution event offering free diapers and infant essentials—including strollers, cribs, and more—recently donated to the food bank. This drive-thru event is a great opportunity for expecting mothers and families with infants to stock up on much-needed supplies.
When: August 1, 2025 | 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Where: 11870 Monarch St, Garden Grove, CA 92841
GO-Biz is now accepting applications for the California Competes Tax Credit—a key incentive for businesses looking to grow and create jobs in California. For the 2025-2026 fiscal year, applications will be accepted during the following windows:
- July 21 – August 11, 2025
- January 5 – January 26, 2026
- March 2 – March 16, 2026
To help businesses navigate the application process, GO-Biz will host live informational webinars before each round. These sessions will include a program overview, evaluation criteria, and step-by-step guidance.
Upcoming Webinars:
Businesses of all sizes are encouraged to attend. A recorded webinar is also available online.
The Orange County Power Authority is giving away FREE Energy Efficiency Kits to local residential customers in Buena Park, Fullerton, and Irvine!
Each kit includes 2 LED lightbulbs, a 7-outlet smart power strip, a Wi-Fi plug, and rubber weather-stripping—simple tools to help you save energy and reduce your carbon footprint.
This is a limited-time offer, so don't wait! Learn more and request your kit here: https://www.ocpower.org/energy-efficiency-kit/
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.
California youth ages 13 to 25 have free, 24/7 access to mental health support with Soluna—a mobile app built to support you anytime, anywhere. Whether you're dealing with stress, anxiety, or just need to talk, Soluna offers trained professionals, safe peer communities, and practical tools to help you feel more connected and in control. Get started at solunaapp.com!
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.
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.
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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
Join me and Rising Above Disabilities (RAD) Camp to help close out an unforgettable week of camp with joy, gratitude, and celebration!
RAD Camp is California's largest residential summer camp for children and adults with developmental disabilities. Each summer, the camp brings together campers, caregivers, and volunteers in a vibrant, inclusive space filled with connection, laughter, and lifelong memories.
Volunteer at the RAD Camp Closing Ceremony and help make the final day just as meaningful as the first. You will support with…
- Running fun activity stations
- Handing out prizes and snacks
- Assisting campers with packing
- Helping with general setup
- Bringing energy and encouragement as we send off this amazing community
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
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
