Welcome to "Catching Up With Cottie" - a weekly update about what I am working on as your representative in the California State Assembly.
In honor of Veterans Day, I had the privilege of hosting my sixth annual Veterans of the Year ceremony at Irvine Valley College, celebrating the outstanding service and sacrifice of Victor Bakkila (Costa Mesa), Martha McDonald (Irvine), and Michael Carter (Tustin). These remarkable individuals have served our nation with courage and continue to make a lasting impact within their communities and among fellow veterans throughout Orange County. This ceremony is one of the highlights of the year, as we gather to honor veterans who have dedicated their lives to protecting our freedoms and strengthening the fabric of our community. Their contributions remind us of the values that unite us and make us stronger. Read more about our honorees 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
Kicking off a busy week, I joined the Orange County Fire Authority, at their wildland firefighter training day. With wildfire season still active in California, it was impressive to see the firefighting equipment up close, including the new FIREHAWKS, and to learn more about the vital work that protects our communities. Thank you for all you do!
With Thanksgiving just around the corner, I am honored to host my first annual Turkey Giveaway to help support our community and celebrate the holidays! This is a free event open to community members in the 73rd Assembly District, from Costa Mesa, Irvine and Tustin. Registration is required. Registrant must be present to pick up turkey and food bag. Limit one per household. Please RSVP, while supplies last -we look forward to seeing you there!
I traveled to Sacramento to join the California Energy Commission for a panel discussion we explored the evolution of California's electric grid to meet climate challenges head-on. We discussed bold, innovative technologies and the efforts underway to build a cleaner, more reliable, and affordable energy future for all Californians!
Speaking of cleaner grid, I enjoyed a productive meeting with Schneider Electric, exploring cutting-edge sustainability and decarbonization technologies. Proud to have forward-thinking companies like this right here in our district, driving a cleaner future!
One of my legislative priorities last session was to address drunk driving. Each and every day, drunk drivers kill 37 people in the United States. That is one life lost every 39 minutes. I had a productive meeting with Mothers Against Drunk Driving, California Safer Roads Coalition, and AAA to discuss my bill AB 2210 and my legislative goals for 2025 to address this epidemic.
Big thanks to Love Irvine for another successful Annual Serve Day! Team Cottie volunteered with Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County harvesting produce alongside the Rancho San Joaquin District Scouts. Thank you to all of you who showed up for our community today and throughout the year!
COMMUNITY RECOGNITION
Afterschool programs play a crucial role in our children's growth and development, and Team Cottie was thrilled to celebrate the incredible work that Think Together does in our community. We're grateful for the lasting, positive impact they have on our kids and their futures!
She's off to the stars! Emily Calandrelli, also known as the incredible "SpaceGal," is officially heading to space with Blue Origin! Team Cottie was beyond thrilled to cheer her on at her send-off party! As a renowned science communicator, advocate, and now a Citizen Astronaut Program (CAP) Ambassador, Emily continues to break barriers and inspire countless young girls to dream big in STEM.
RESOURCES
Your family's health comes first, and Covered California is here to help. With affordable coverage and financial help for nearly 90% of enrollees, it's easier to access the care you need to protect your family. Check to see if you qualify at CoveredCA.com
The Orange County Veterans Service Office will actively pursue the rights of veterans and dependents of the United States Armed Forces to receive Department of Veterans Affairs benefits. We will work collaboratively with nationally chartered veterans organizations, the Department of Veterans Affairs and others to assure that veterans and their dependents receive the entitlements they have earned for their military service.
UPCOMING EVENTS
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. 9 - Tustin Veterans Day Celebration & Car Show
The City of Tustin invites the community to join us in a Veterans Day Celebration and Car Show at Veterans Sports Park. This free inspiring day will include a ceremony to honor Veterans, speeches, live music, food trucks, and a car show.
Nov. 11 - Irvine Veterans Day Ceremony
In honor of veterans and in support of their families, the City of Irvine is hosting a special Veterans Day Ceremony Monday, November 11, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the Formal Garden at Colonel Bill Barber Marine Corps Memorial Park.
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.
Nov. 23 - Turkey Giveaway
Assemblywoman Cottie Petrie-Norris invites you to her 1st Annual Turkey Giveaway! Individuals who register will receive a free frozen turkey and food bag, while supplies last. Free event open to community members in the 73rd Assembly District from Costa Mesa, Irvine and Tustin. Registration is required. Registrant must be present to pick up turkey and food bag. Limit one per household.
