1 Picasso, 100 Euros, Montes Now Open, and More News Bytes
A global fundraising initiative is offering a rare opportunity to win an original Pablo Picasso painting while supporting critical Alzheimer’s research. The campaign, “1 Picasso for 100 Euros,” will raffle off Tête de femme (1941), a portrait of Dora Maar valued at more than $1 million. Organized by French philanthropist Péri Cochin, the initiative has already sold half of its 120,000 tickets worldwide ahead of the live drawing on April 14 at Christie’s in Paris. “Alzheimer’s is something that touches so many people. If we can raise meaningful support for research and at the same time give someone the chance to win a Picasso, that’s pretty incredible,” said Cochin to the MJ.
The artwork reflects Picasso’s iconic Cubist period, with similar works commanding tens of millions at auction. Proceeds from the raffle will directly fund Alzheimer’s research, a cause impacting more than 35 million people globally.
First launched in 2013, the campaign has already produced included a U.S. winner who received a Picasso valued at over $1 million. Will you be the next one?
411: https://1picasso100euros.com
Monte’s Now Open!
Monte’s is officially open on Coast Village Road! This is Endwell Hospitality’s first California restaurant. Designed as a neighborhood gathering place, Monte’s brings a refined yet approachable dining experience centered on hyper-seasonal, ingredient-driven cuisine drawn from the Central Coast.
Led by Executive Chef Daniel Kim, whose background includes Michelin-starred kitchens, the menu balances comfort and creativity with dishes like prawn toast, coal-roasted cabbage, wagyu sirloin, and a signature smash burger. Kim’s approach emphasizes bold flavors and thoughtful simplicity, allowing peak-season ingredients to shine.
The beverage program, overseen by Wine Director Suzanne DeStio, mirrors the kitchen’s philosophy with a curated selection of small producers, seasonal cocktails, and wines designed to complement the menu. A forthcoming happy hour will further position Monte’s as an everyday gathering spot.
With its warm, welcoming atmosphere and focus on quality and seasonality, Monte’s aims to become a staple of Montecito’s evolving dining scene.
GFF Inclusive Arts Clubhouse Anniversary
The Grace Fisher Foundation is marking a major milestone with a community celebration honoring three years of its Inclusive Arts Clubhouse and ten years of free, inclusive arts programming in Santa Barbara. The anniversary event will take place on April 12 from 1-3 pm at the Clubhouse in La Cumbre Plaza, inviting guests of all ages to experience the vibrant, accessible space firsthand.
The afternoon will feature live music, a performance by the Sing Sign & Dance Troupe, hands-on art activities, light bites, and a festive atmosphere designed to reflect the Foundation’s mission of creativity and inclusion. Attendees can tour the Clubhouse, meet founder Grace Fisher and her team, and learn more about programs that empower individuals of all abilities through music, visual arts, and performance.
Founded by Fisher, an artist and advocate, the organization continues to expand opportunities for connection, expression, and belonging throughout the community.
Former Hostage to Speak at UCSB
Omer Shem Tov survived the terror attack of October 7, 2023. Kidnapped from the Nova music festival, he spent 505 days in captivity in Gaza before being released in a hostage deal. He will speak about his experiences on April 13 at UCSB. Registration required.
411: www.omerinsb.com
Olive Crest to “Hope Shines” Fundraiser
Olive Crest will host its upcoming Hope Shines fundraiser on Sunday, April 26, from 1:30 to 3:30 pm at Sunstone Winery in Santa Ynez, bringing the community together to support its Hope Refuge Campus. The program is dedicated to serving local girls who have been victims of sex trafficking – Hope Refuge providing safety, healing, and long-term support.
The afternoon will feature a powerful presentation from Guest Speaker Shantel Ortiz-Cesario, a survivor and advocate who will share her personal story and offer insight into the realities of trafficking and recovery. Guests will also enjoy lunch, desserts, and beverages while learning more about the program’s impact and the ongoing need for community involvement.
Proceeds from the event will directly support Hope Refuge Campus and its specialized services, reinforcing Olive Crest’s broader mission to strengthen families and transform the lives of children in crisis.
411: www.olivecrest.org/hope-shines-2026
Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians Events
– Chumash Earth Day, Saturday, April 18: The theme for this year’s event is “Life Grows Where Water Flows,” a free community celebration.
411: https://syceo.org/earthday
– Santa Ynez Chumash Museum & Cultural Center 1st Anniversary, Friday, May 15, featuring the brand-new guided audio tour and the unveiling of a new temporary exhibit. The evening will be complete with a special lecture by the artist, and an inside look at the creation of this extraordinary new exhibit. Tickets required.
Juneteenth SB Call for Contributors
April 15 deadline for artists, vendors, volunteers to apply for the 2026 “Love for The People” Juneteenth Celebration takes place on Friday, June 19, at Plaza Del Mar in Santa Barbara.
SB Cottage Health’s First Chief Innovation Officer
SB Cottage Health has appointed Ryan Kelly, PhD, as its first chief innovation officer, a newly established role designed to advance innovation across the health system and strengthen strategic partnerships. Kelly is a healthcare and medtech innovation executive with more than 20 years of experience building platforms, teams, and partnerships at the intersection of technology, life sciences, and healthcare delivery.
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