Welcome to "Catching Up With Cottie" - a weekly update about what I am working on as your representative in the California State Assembly.
It was such an honor to join the Tustin Tiller Days Parade this year! Since 1957, this beloved tradition has brought the community together to celebrate Tustin's rich agricultural heritage and the farming roots that helped shape Orange County. Today, it continues to be a wonderful reminder of our history and a joyful way to celebrate the spirit of community that makes Tustin so special.
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
Last week in Chicago with the Bay Area Council, we explored how clean energy and innovation can power the next era of technology. From artifical intelligence to quantum computing, we discussed ways to meet rising energy demands through smart policy, strategic investment, and breakthrough solutions—ensuring California continues to lead the world in sustainable innovation.
There's still time to RSVP for our final Senior Scam Stopper Seminar of the year on Thursday, October 9 at the Tustin Area Senior Center! Don't miss this chance to learn how to protect yourself from fraud and scams. Click here to RSVP or call my office at (949) 251-0074 for assistance.
Advancing clean tech is a top priority in California—it lowers emissions, reduces pollution, boosts energy efficiency, and cuts costs for businesses. I had a great tour of the Los Angeles Cleantech Incubator, where startups are accelerating the commercialization of clean technologies and transforming industries through collaboration with policymakers, innovators, and leaders in zero-emission transportation, clean energy, and sustainable cities. I was especially inspired by their commitment to uplifting communities through workforce development, pilot projects, and other innovative programs.
Diwali is a time to celebrate light, hope, and new beginnings. With more than a billion people around the world observing this Festival of Lights, it was an honor for my team to join the Ektaa Center's 11th Annual Diwali Festival. From the lamp-lighting ceremony to the joyous cultural traditions, we were grateful to be part of the celebration. Wishing all who celebrate a bright and joyful Diwali!
We are always grateful to stand with Human Options at their annual Shine the Light Vigil, honoring the lives lost to domestic violence and reaffirming our commitment to ending this crisis. This year, we joined Costa Mesa city officials and police in solidarity, shining a light on the importance of safety, healing, and hope for survivors in our community.
The City of Irvine hosted a Healthy Living Expo to showcase the many wellness resources available to our community! My team was glad to join in, connect with residents, and share information about valuable state resources and upcoming events—including our Community Dental Clinic in Tustin and Harvest Solutions Farm Volunteer event for Love Irvine Day.
One of the things that makes Irvine so special is its amazing diversity! Thank you to St. Marina Coptic Orthodox Church for inviting us to your annual International Festival, a joyful celebration of culture, community, and delicious food shared in such a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Team Cottie joined Orange County United Way to receive a CalMoneySmart grant from the California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation. The grant funds will support OC United Way's Sparkpoint OC program, which helps households create step-by-step personal financial plans to tackle their specific needs – from getting out of debt, increasing income, or learning how to budget. This program has helped hundreds of residents achieve their financial goals and build a more secure future for themselves and their families.
COMMUNITY RECOGNITION
CureDuchenne and CHOC have teamed up to open the CureDuchenne Clinic — expanding neuromuscular care and access to advanced treatments. Thanks to nearly $1.5M in support, more kids and families will get the care they deserve. So proud to celebrate the grand opening and ribbon-cutting of this incredible new clinic!
Costa Mesa pet parents now have a new 24/7 emergency room for pets! VEG ER is here for unexpected emergencies to urgent care, their team is here around the clock to make sure your furry family members get the care they need.
RESOURCES
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Financial abuse is the most common form of domestic abuse—impacting nearly 99% of survivors. It's a tactic of control that limits access to money and resources, often trapping victims in abusive relationships and leaving lasting barriers to housing, healthcare, and employment. If you or someone you know needs help, resources are available through the Department of Financial Protection and Innovation.
Join TRIPS for a free shuttle service to the Irvine Global Village Festival Saturday, October 11.
This event is a vibrant celebration of diverse cultures with delicious cuisine, electric entertainment, a global marketplace, and cultural exhibits. Immerse yourself in a world of traditions and experiences from around the globe.
This service is available to community members ages 50 and older.
Space is limited and early registration is encouraged. For reservations, call 949-724-7433 beginning October 6.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Oct. 8 - Irvine Senior Scam Stopper
Oct. 11 - Irvine Global Village Festival
Make plans to attend the City of Irvine's signature festival on Saturday, October 11, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. at Great Park in Irvine. The 2025 Irvine Global Village Festival will celebrate 24 years of community fun. Attendees of all ages will enjoy local and global cuisine, a global marketplace, entertainment, art, and cultural exhibits highlighting traditions from all around the world.
Oct. 16 - Costa Mesa Small Business Clinic
The Orange County Inland Empire Small Business Development Center Network (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 with the goal of bringing into the community business assistance and support to small business owners.
During the program, business owners will get the opportunity to meet with an SBDC consultant at no cost for a 30-minute one-on-one session to answer their immediate needs pertaining to marketing, operations, or financial assessment. All participants will also be aligned with a primary consultant for follow-up assistance to receive continuous, no-cost support in an effort to help them grow and expand their business.
Oct. 25 - Tustin Dental Clinic
Join us at Aldersgate United Methodist Church in Tustin to receive free dental care for all ages from the UCI Delta Delta Sigma Dental Clinic. Services provided include dental exams, cleanings, and the opportunity to schedule treatment follow-up with the same team.
