September Newsletter

Oct

06

2025

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2 minutes

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Dear Friends and Neighbors,

This recess I have had the opportunity spend more time in our district, and I want to provide an update on some our September activities. The Legislature will reconvene on January 5^th, 2026.

4^th North American Real Estate Investment Forum

To start the month, we attended the 4^th North American Real Estate Investment Forum in Costa Mesa. We had the opportunity to connect with developers, investors, and community stakeholders across Southern California. The forum featured panels on emerging trends in real estate, public policy’s impact on development, and strategies for sustainable and equitable growth. It’s always valuable to see how our district’s priorities intersect with broader industry direction and to bring back insights to guide local decision-making.

OC Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast

On Friday, September 12^th, we joined the Orange County community at the 60^th annual Mayor's Prayer Breakfast. This year’s theme emphasized community unity and service. It was wonderful to see local leaders, faith groups, and neighbors gather in prayer and reflection. I was honored to join in and listen to messages of hope, moral leadership, and how we can continue working together for the public good.

Fullerton Flame Broiler Grand Opening

On September 22^nd, the district team had the pleasure of welcoming the Lee Family Franchise’s Flame Broiler to the Fullerton Community. Flame Broiler offers choice Angus beef, naturally selected chicken, organic tofu, and other healthy options in their rice bowls. We’re excited to have them in the community and wish them success in the years ahead.

Meeting with University of California Irvine (UCI) Vice Chancellor and Assistant Vice Chancellor

On September 24^th, I met with UCI Vice Chancellor Sherry Main, Assistant Vice Chancellor Alberto Sandoval, and Director Kristin Vallendi to discuss the university’s long-term vision for growth. Our conversation focused on priorities such as housing, transportation, sustainability, and innovation, including a goal to increase student housing capacity from 48% to 60% through redevelopment of existing land. UCI also shared their intent to expand the student body in the coming years, which would require legislative approval. I appreciated the opportunity to hear directly from UCI leadership about their aspirations and the important role the university plays in our community.

Meeting with City of Irvine City Manager

On September 24^th, I met with Irvine’s Interim City Manager, Sean Crumbly, and Senior Management Analyst Rebecca Moss to discuss the city's ongoing and future priorities. We had a meaningful conversation about Irvine’s history, major developments, the future of the Great Park, and the unique character that continues to define the city.

Serendipity Labs

On September 25^th, my district team joined Serendipity Labs as they celebrated the grand opening of their new location in Costa Mesa. Since 2011, Serendipity Labs has offered a network of cooperative workspaces, including meeting rooms, team suites, private offices, and coworking spaces. Thank you to Serendipity Labs for supporting small businesses and local professionals, and welcome to the community!

Laguna Niguel State of the City

On September 25^th, we joined residents, small business owners, and leaders from across the area at the Laguna Niguel State of the City. The event was an excellent forum for Laguna Niguel’s leadership to highlight recent achievements and outline future goals. Topics included financial stewardship, infrastructure investments, and advancing community projects. It was inspiring to see the city’s vision for growth balanced with preserving quality of life.

Fullerton Fire Station 1 Visit

On September 27^th, I visited Fullerton Fire Department Station 1 and met the dedicated firefighters who work hard every day to keep our community safe. Thank you to Chief Adam Loeser and the entire fire department for your service and dedication to our community.

Israel Trip

I was invited by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the State of Israel and the Consulate General of Israel to the Pacific Southwest, where I participated in a landmark bipartisan delegation of senior state legislators from across the United States.

This historic five-day study tour brought together over 200 legislators from all 50 states, representing both the Democratic and Republican parties, for an in-depth exploration of Israel’s leadership, society, heritage, and spirit of innovation.

This journey offered a rare opportunity for me to deepen understanding, foster dialogue, and strengthen relationships between Israel and the American people.

Senate Fellow Program

Applications for the 2026-27 Cohort of Senate Fellows are now open! Rooted in experiential learning and public service, Senate Fellows spend 11 months as part of a cohort working in the Capitol office of a California State Senator. College seniors and recent graduates are eligible to apply. The deadline to apply is December 8, 2025, at 11:59 PM PST. Start your application here today! For more information, visit the Senate Fellowship webpage or access the digital Senate Fellowship Program Brochure. This program include a $4888/month stipend as well as health, vision, and dental benefits.