Local Scout Leads Flag Drive — And Other News Bytes

Leo Brownstein, a Life Scout with Montecito’s Troop 33, is leading a community flag drive as part of his Eagle Scout project in collaboration with American Legion Post 49 and the Montecito Association. The drive will run from July 4 to July 18, with a flag collection box located at the Montecito Community Hall. Troop 33 will also host an information table at the Village 4th Manning Park celebration. The initiative offers residents a respectful way to retire worn American flags while supporting civic engagement and local scouting leadership.

Rotary Club of Montecito Awards Scholarships

The Rotary Club of Montecito honored 11 Santa Barbara City College students with Career Technical and Vocational Scholarships during a ceremony on April 15. The event, featuring remarks from Rotary and SBCC leaders, celebrated student excellence across diverse fields including nursing, journalism, drafting, cosmetology, and construction technology.

For over 25 years, the Rotary Club has partnered with SBCC to support students pursuing technical and vocational careers, awarding nearly $200,000 in scholarships to date. This year’s recipients were nominated by SBCC faculty from more than 60 Career Technical Education programs, evaluated on academic merit, leadership, and community involvement.

Grace Fisher Foundation Achieves Nonprofit Status 

The Grace Fisher Foundation (GFF), a Santa Barbara nonprofit known for its inclusive arts programs, has officially become an independent nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization. Formerly under a fiscal sponsor, this milestone transition empowers GFF to expand its impact and grow its community-centered initiatives. Founder Grace Fisher called the move “a dream come true,” signaling new opportunities to enhance free programs for individuals of all abilities.

Adding momentum, GFF has received a $50,000 matching grant from a local family foundation. The summer-long challenge aims to double community donations, with new gifts matched dollar-for-dollar and increased donations from returning supporters also matched.

If fully met, the campaign could raise $100,000 – critical funding to keep all programs free. The foundation is also unveiling the GFF Hidden Haven, Santa Barbara’s first Sensory Room, created in partnership with Embrace Autism.

411: To donate or learn more, www.gracefisherfoundation.org

Eat for a Cause with Panda Express!

On June 28 from 10:30 am to 10 pm, Panda Express will donate a portion of their online orders to Healing Justice SB. A portion of all online orders will go directly to HJSB programming.

411: Order online at pandaexpress.com or its app. Use Fundraiser Code: 3841138 at checkout

The California Wine Festival Santa Barbara 

The California Wine fest circles back to SB for a luxe weekend of wine and food pairings.

Friday, July 18, from 6:30-9 pm: Sunset Rare & Reserve Tasting at the Plaza del Sol, Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort

Saturday, July 19, from 1-4 pm. (VIP Entry at 12 pm): Main event at Chase Palm Park.

The event will have a “Best Tri-Tip in the 805” contest, live music and interactive stations with BMW’s latest vehicles. Event for 21 and over only, ticketed. Full listings of wineries, caterers and events, see 411.

411:www.californiawinefestival.com