Catching Up With Cottie - 08/21

Welcome to "Catching Up With Cottie" - a weekly update about what I am working on as your representative in the California State Assembly.

Great news! The California Department of Housing and Community Development has awarded a $29 million Homekey grant to convert the Wyndham Orange County Airport/Costa Mesa Travelodge, into affordable housing units for our most vulnerable residents.

This project represents a strong commitment by the State of California, County of Orange and cities of Costa Mesa and Newport Beach to provide housing and supportive services for individuals and families experiencing, or at risk of, homelessness. I'm proud to have advocated for these state funds and partner with American Family Housing to advance this much needed project to create a safe and nurturing environment for those unable to find stable housing in our community. Read more about this announcement here.

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

Did you know companies in California are creating everything from skateboards to makeup out of algae? This week's Select Committee on Biotechnology and Green Innovation highlighted the incredible potential for California to lead the way in climate-friendly innovations for a variety of everyday products and services. I'm excited to continue the conversation and see how we can drive the next wave of sustainable growth!

Big thanks to Pat Fong Kushida, President and CEO of the California Asian Pacific Chamber of Commerce, for the invitation to join her on the "Space at the Table" podcast! We had a great conversation about California's shift away from carbon dependency and the impact that this shift will have on our economy, especially our small businesses.

I was proud to honor Dr. Kathleen Chen, who took part of the 2024 California Council of Science and Technology Fellow Program. Assigned to the Assembly Utilities and Energy Committee, Dr. Chen was an amazing addition to the team, providing a confidence and thoroughness in understanding of a variety of energy issues facing Californians. She analyzed 27 bills for the Committee, more than any of the Committee's past fellows, and took the lead on tough issues ranging from transportation electrification, data center and artificial intelligence demand, and electric utility wildfire safety. During her fellowship, her grace, intellect, and steadfastness to bring about better policy outcomes for the people of California was extremely refreshing and greatly appreciated. Thanks you, Dr. Chen!

Team CPN had the exciting opportunity to meet Spot, a cutting-edge warehouse logistics robot developed by Boston Dynamics. From detecting hazardous emissions at refinery sites to assisting in emergency rescues, these robots can perform a variety of tasks in environments that are dangerous, remote, or inaccessible to humans, contributing to our safety, efficiency, and quality of life. And they're pretty cool, too!

In the district, the team enjoyed soaking in the lively atmosphere at Sunset Market in Tustin, connecting with the community, and engaging in meaningful conversations!

Team Cottie was also thrilled to join the Greater Irvine Chamber of Commerce for the ribbon-cutting ceremony of Umpqua Bank. Congratulations on your new location in the heart of Irvine's business hub! Here's to continued success and growth!

COMMUNITY RECOGNITION

Baby, oh baby!!! Team Cottie helped welcome the Baby Shoppe to the City of Tustin. If you're looking for adorable baby clothing, baby gifts, or state-of-the-art baby gear, they have an amazing selection that ensures that you'll find something you love. Welcome to the district!

Team Cottie also stopped by to welcome Happy Lemon to the city of Tustin! For over seventeen years, Happy Lemon is nationally known for its high-quality teas and fresh, delicious drinks! It's a great place to meet up with friends for great tasting drinks, a clean & cozy environment, and fast friendly service. Check them out!

RESOURCES

Are you looking to replace your lawn with a more water efficient landscape? Check out the Irvine Ranch Water District Turf Replacement program. Help California save water by replacing your grass with water-efficient landscape. Say goodbye to the hassle, maintenance, and expense of lawns - and say hello to a beautiful outdoor living space!

Learn More

As part of its ongoing sustainability efforts, Costa Mesa Sanitary District (CMSD) is implementing a residential three-cart curbside collection program! This new system is customer friendly, increases diversion from landfills, promotes source separation and will meet State regulatory requirements. Starting on October 7, 2024, there will be some changes in how customers sort their waste and in how CMSD's waste hauler, CR&R, collects and processes organic and recyclable materials.

Learn More

UPCOMING EVENTS

Aug. 21 - Scam Chat Wednesdays with AARP: Investment & Payment Method Scams

Join AARP California, the California Department of Financial Protection & Innovation, and guest speakers throughout the month of August for Scam Chat Wednesdays - weekly virtual presentations that cover the latest scams and offer guidance on keeping your personal and financial information secure and protected. This presentation will focus on cryptocurrency-related imposter scams and how they work.

Aug. 28 - Scam Chat Wednesdays with AARP: Social Media Scams

Join AARP California, the California Department of Financial Protection & Innovation, and guest speakers throughout the month of August for Scam Chat Wednesdays - weekly virtual presentations that cover the latest scams and offer guidance on keeping your personal and financial information secure and protected. This presentation will focus on how to avoid falling for common social media scams that originate with social media ads, posts or messages.

Sep. 4 - Estate Planning Webinar

Join the California Department of Financial Innovation & Protection for this FREE Estate Planning Webinar on September 4, from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m., and gain the knowledge and confidence to plan, protect, and leave a legacy for your loved ones and the causes that you support.

Sep. 6 - Be Red Cross Ready Emergency Preparedness

Join me and Tustin Community Foundation for a FREE emergency preparedness workshops to your community during National Emergency Preparedness Month! Join us at the Tustin Public Library for a series of presentations to learn how to prepare yourself and your household for emergencies and local hazards.

Sep. 7 - Tustin Police Department Open House