Welcome to "Catching Up With Cottie" - a weekly update about what I am working on as your representative in the California State Assembly.
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 their communities and organizations to advocate for their brothers and sisters in arms. In honor of Veterans Day, I invite you to join me at my annual Veterans of the Year ceremony at Irvine Valley College, recognizing three veterans for their outstanding service and contributions to fellow veterans and to the community at large. Kindly RSVP in advance to attend the ceremony.
This year's honorees are:
- Victor Bakkila, U.S. Army Reserve (Costa Mesa)
- Martha McDonald, U.S. Marine Corps (Irvine)
- Michael Carter, U.S. Marine Corps (Tustin)
To watch last year's event click 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
I had a wonderful Halloween celebration with the community at Power of One Foundation's Trunk or Treat event! From creative costumes to candy-filled trunks, the festive spirit was in full swing, bringing joy and Halloween magic to everyone. It was a thrill to see so many families come together for an evening of fun, laughter, and treats!
It was a pleasure to join a panel discussion at Sustain SoCal's 15th Annual Energy Conference at UC Irvine, where we explored the current landscape of decarbonization solutions across the industrial, commercial, and government sectors.
This is a pivotal time for California, as we work toward our ambitious climate goals, to cut emissions and build a reliable, sustainable, and affordable economy. As Chair of the Energy and Utilities Committee, I am committed to prioritizing legislation that will limit future rate hikes, lower current electricity costs, and accelerate the development of essential infrastructure.
Just last month, I introduced legislation to increase in-state gasoline production by modifying fuel standards, by taking the first step toward authorizing the use of E15 gasoline in California. E15 gasoline is less expensive for refiners to produce and is considered a cleaner alternative to traditional gasoline - providing real potential to increase supply and drive down costs at the pump. Though my bill, ABX2-9, passed out of the Assembly almost unanimously, it stalled in the Senate - but my proposal wasn't off the table for long!
Just last week, Governor Newsom directed the California Air Resources Board to accelerate its regulatory review of the E15 blend of gasoline, effectively implementing the very proposal that I introduced. This cleaner, greener fuel blend has the potential to bring significant savings to California consumers, and I appreciate the Governor's support!
I had a wonderful meeting with Dr. Lamia Gabal, a board member of the Physician Association of California (PAC) and manager of a physician practice in Tustin. PAC plays a vital role in advocating for California's small group and independent physicians. We discussed PAC's legislative priorities, which aim to strengthen healthcare delivery for their practices and enhance patient care across the state.
Team Cottie was honored to join City of Irvine officials and the Irvine Police for the Human Options' walking vigil to commemorate Domestic Violence Awareness Month. This important event brought together community members to raise awareness, support survivors, and advocate for an end to domestic violence. Together, we stand united in our commitment to fostering a safer, more supportive environment for all.
Did you know that Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is celebrated by more than a billion individuals around the world? The five days mark the triumph of good over evil - light over darkness. This year, my team had the pleasure of joining the Ektaa Center at its 10th annual Diwali Festival. We had a fantastic time taking part in the lamp-lighting ceremony and enjoyed the festivities. Wishing all those celebrating a joyous and radiant Festival of Lights!
COMMUNITY RECOGNITION
Huge congratulations to Broken Yolk Cafe on your grand opening in Irvine! Wishing you great success and many more sunny days ahead!
My team had the pleasure of attending the ribbon-cutting ceremony for Gameday Men's Health in Tustin! Thank you for prioritizing the wellness of our community. We are proud to support Veteran-owned businesses!
RESOURCES
Nearly 40 vote centers across Orange County are now open for in-person voting! A Vote Center is more than a traditional polling place - it's a full-service voting experience. Cast your ballot at any location, stop by on the weekend, and even register to vote. Explore all of the benefits of Vote Center voting, all designed to improve the voter experience.
The State of California is trying to return approximately $13 billion to its rightful owners. Is some of it yours? California's unclaimed property laws require "holders," such as corporations, business associations, financial institutions, insurance companies, and others, to annually deliver and report to the State Controller's Office after there has been no customer contact for over three years. Often the owner forgets that the account exists, moves and does not leave a forwarding address, or the forwarding address expires. To find potential money, visit the State Controller's Office and search the Database of Unclaimed Properties for money that the state may owe you.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Nov. 1 - Veterans of the Year Ceremony
You're invited to Assemblywoman Cottie Petrie-Norris' Veterans of the Year Ceremony on Friday, November 1 at Irvine Valley College. During the event, we will honor three distinguished veterans from Costa Mesa, Irvine and Tustin for their valor and unwavering commitment to our nation. To watch highlights from last year's ceremony, click here.
Nov. 2 - Love Irvine Citywide Serve Day
You're invited to volunteer at the 4th Annual Love Irvine Citywide Serve Day Saturday, November 2, from 7:30 a.m. to noon. There are more than 25 projects available, and many ways for residents to make a meaningful impact. The entire community is encouraged to come together and serve, creating a lasting difference in the City and beyond. A kickoff event will begin at 7:30 a.m. at Heritage Community Park, and afterward, volunteers will report to their respective volunteer locations.
Nov. 5 - Veterans Resource Fair
Join Irvine Valley College and Team Cottie for an exclusive opportunity to connect with veteran support organizations, access invaluable resources, and pay tribute to those who have bravely served our country. The resource fair will take place on Tuesday, November 5, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Irvine Valley College Quad outside the Student Services Building. Free eye exams (and prescription glasses if needed) by Lestonnac Free Clinic and free dental check-ups by UCI Delta Delta Sigma Dental Clinic will also be available.
Nov. 7 - Small Business Growth Summit
Empower your business with the education, resources, and information to grow at the 2024 Small Business Growth Summit on Thursday, November 7, from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Irvine Marriott. Network with business owners, meet with local legislators, understand what it takes to access capital, and learn tactical tools to drive your business' revenue. Free registration.
Nov. 14 - Theft Webinar
Join AAA for a free interactive workshop designed to provide education on identity theft, fraud prevention tips, and the Dark Web. This workshop is good for all ages and anyone who wants to become more knowledgeable on identity theft prevention. Learn from Experian® experts about the steps you can take to protect your identity.
