Welcome to "Catching Up With Cottie" - a weekly update about what I am working on as your representative in the California State Assembly.
A heartfelt thank you to all our incredible volunteers who showed up for our Hunger Action Month events in partnership with Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County! Your dedication and hard work have made a tangible difference in the lives of thousands.
It's staggering to think that nearly 330,000 people in Orange County face food insecurity. But thanks to your generosity, compassion, and your valuable time, we're able to fight back. Over 100 volunteers processed 4,564 lbs. of food and harvested 1,200 lbs. of green beans, providing nourishing meals to families in need across the county.
Together, our ongoing volunteer efforts have now resulted in an amazing 46,200 pounds of produce gathered—a remarkable achievement that underscores the power of community and collaboration. Thank you for being a vital part of this effort to bring hope and sustenance to so many.
We couldn't do this without you!
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
We had an incredible turnout at our Senior Scam Stopper Seminar in Tustin! A huge thank you to our outstanding partner agencies, including the California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation, Contractors State License Board, California Department of Insurance, Alzheimer's Orange County, and the Council on Aging - Southern California. Your expertise and support were invaluable in helping to equip our Senior community with vital information on how to protect themselves against scams, fraud, and identity theft.
Empowering our Seniors with the knowledge and tools to stay safe is key to safeguarding their financial well-being and peace of mind. I'm excited to bring this important seminar to more communities and look forward to hosting upcoming events in Irvine and Costa Mesa.
It was a pleasure to participate in the Solar Energy Industries Association roundtable, where we had the opportunity to dive deep into the exciting opportunities and pressing challenges facing the solar industry. It was also wonderful to tour the expo and see the innovation that is driving us toward a cleaner, more sustainable future.
I had the pleasure of joining California Natural Resources Secretary Wade Crowfoot for a memorable visit to the Randall Preserve during California Biodiversity Week, celebrating the release of the 30x30 Annual Report. Hosted by the California Natural Resources Agency, the Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority, The Trust for Public Land, Power in Nature, and the Coastal Corridor Alliance, the event brought together key conservation partners. We engaged in a thoughtful roundtable discussion on the progress at the preserve and the future of California's ambitious biodiversity and conservation goals, which include conserving 30 percent of California's lands and coastal waters by 2030.
Happy 35th anniversary to Centennial Farm located at the OC Fair! For decades, this local treasure has been teaching hands-on farming, gardening, and sustainability to over 1.3 million students and visitors. Huge shoutout to the incredible staff and volunteers for keeping our agricultural roots alive and thriving!
Team Cottie was happy to take part in the Tustin Area Senior Center Resource Fair to connect with our Senior community, ensuring they are informed about available state resources, including the Department of Financial Protection and Innovation (DFPI), and the Bureau of Medi-Cal Fraud and Elder Abuse, as well as exploring how my office can best support them. Also, a big thank you to UCI Delta Delta Sigma for partnering with my office to provide free dental care - including exams and cleanings for our constituents.
COMMUNITY RECOGNITION
We owe a profound debt of gratitude to the brave men and women who have answered the call of a nation to serve in the U.S. Armed Forces. They have all demonstrated great valor and commitment to protecting our nation. They continue their life of service by working with veterans, neighbors and organizations to make a positive impact in our communities. Help us honor our American heroes! Please submit your nomination for Veteran of the Year by September 30, 2024. The nominees must reside or work in Costa Mesa, Irvine and Tustin, served on active duty in the military, and have been discharged under honorable conditions.
Congratulations to the incredible emergency personnel being honored at the Orange County Business Council's 2024 First Responders Dinner! Every day, our first responders perform heroic acts—from talking someone down from self-harm to saving lives in accidents and emergencies. Thank you for your unwavering dedication and for making our community a safer place. Your outstanding public service to the residents of Orange County is truly appreciated. Read more about the incredible honorees and their stories.
RESOURCES
During National Suicide Prevention Month, let's remind each other that no one has to go through tough times alone. Reach out, listen, and offer support. If you or someone you know is struggling, help is always available: 988.
September is National Emergency Preparedness Month. Wildfires are a growing concern in California, they can spread rapidly, threatening homes, communities, and lives. Staying informed is fundamental to prepare for the next steps.
Get ready for wildfire by:
- Maintaining adequate defensible space
- Hardening your home
- Incorporating fire smart landscaping
- Reviewing seasonal actions you can take to reduce your wildfire risk.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Sep. 19 - Irvine Senior Scam Stopper Seminar
Come learn how to protect yourself from common scams related to home improvement, auto repair, insurance, telemarketing, real estate and more. A panel of experts will provide information to seniors and caregivers about scams and how they can protect themselves from becoming victims of fraud. Attendees will get their questions answered and obtain assistance if they have been scammed. Resource agencies and organizations will also provide helpful information about various programs and services.
Sep. 22 - OCAICC Mehregan Celebration 2024
Join the Orange County Iranian American Chamber of Commerce for a day filled with joy and festivities to celebrate the ancient Persian festival of Mehregan. The event will take place on Sun, Sep 22, 2024 at The Irvine Mariott, 18000 Von Karman Ave. Get ready to enjoy traditional music, delicious food, dance performances, and more. This is a great opportunity to connect with the community and learn about Persian culture and traditions. For more information click here.
Sep. 23 - Car Seat Safety Check-Up
In partnership with the California Highway Patrol, Costa Mesa Police Department and City of Costa Mesa, we are hosting FREE car seat safety check-up event on Monday, September 23 from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Costa Mesa City Hall.
Sep. 26 - Costa Mesa Small Business Clinic
The Orange County/Inland Empire Small Business Development Center (SBDC) is excited to host the SBDC Small Business Clinic, a program offered in collaboration with Assemblywoman Cottie Petrie-Norris, the City of Costa Mesa, and the Costa Mesa Chamber of Commerce for Costa Mesa-based businesses with the goal of bringing into the community business assistance and support to small business owners.
Sep. 27 - Hands Only CPR
Join me, American Red Cross and the Tustin Community Foundation for a session to learn how to perform life-saving chest compressions to respond during a cardiac emergency.
Oct. 1 - Costa Mesa Senior Scam Stopper Seminar
Come learn how to protect yourself from common scams related to home improvement, auto repair, insurance, telemarketing, real estate and more. A panel of experts will provide information to seniors and caregivers about scams and how they can protect themselves from becoming victims of fraud. Attendees will get their questions answered and obtain assistance if they have been scammed. Resource agencies and organizations will also provide helpful information about various programs and services.
