"What's Trending" Newsletter

October 2026 Vol. 1

Jazz at the Columbus Centre Returns

with a Tribute to George Gershwin

Jazz at the Columbus Centre Tribute to George Gershwin

As part of the Jazz at the Columbus Centre series, pianist and composer Anthony D’Alessandro leads a lively celebration of the music of George Gershwin.

 

Known for his signature swing, dazzling technique, and showmanship, D’Alessandro brings Gershwin’s beloved catalogue to life, from jazz standards and musical favourites to celebrated concert works. The evening celebrates a composer whose music continues to shape the sound of American jazz and popular music.

 

Joining D’Alessandro are an outstanding ensemble of Canadian jazz musicians: Kevin Turcotte on trumpet, Paul Novotny on bass, and Daniel Barnes on drums.

 

Experience Gershwin’s timeless melodies with the energy, artistry, and imagination that make Jazz at the Columbus Centre such a special series.

 

Date: Thursday, October 29, 7:30 – 9:00pm

Price: $30 (Adults) / $25 (Students/Seniors)

 
Tribute Thanksgiving Gift Plaque

Villa Charities

History of Italian Folk Instruments

Ontario Culture Days: Explore the History of Italian Folk Instruments

Spaces are still available for tonight’s engaging presentation! Join us at 7:30pm for a fascinating journey through Italy’s rich folk music traditions with musician and educator Roberto Di Placido. Explore the history and cultural significance of traditional instruments through stories, demonstrations, and live music — from Sardinian pipes to southern Italian bagpipes and drums.


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Tentacles and Branches

Where Nature Meets the Digital Age - Exhibition Opening Tomorrow!

Step into a world where nature and technology collide at the opening reception of “Tentacles and Branches: Mystical Intersections of the Wild and Wired” tomorrow, Friday, October 2 at 7:00pm Through richly detailed, baroque paintings, artist Mimmo Baronello explores the fascinating and sometimes uneasy relationship between the natural world and our increasingly digital lives. The exhibition runs through Wednesday, October 28, 2026.


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Experience the Italian Tradition of Grape Pressing

Come out and learn about the winemaking process! On Sunday, October 4 from 11:00am to 1:30pm, celebrate the Italian tradition of grape pressing with a live demonstration. Learn how fresh grapes are pressed into barrels to begin the winemaking process. Plus, enjoy light refreshments, musical entertainment and raffle prizes. Tickets are $10.00.


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Academy of Realist Art

Ontario Culture Days: Academy of Realist Art Studio Gallery Tours

Visit the Academy of Realist Art at the Columbus Centre and enjoy free guided studio gallery tours on Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays until October 10. Students follow a unique step-by-step process to master the skills and disciplines of realist art. Explore the in-studio gallery to see classical works by both students and master instructors.


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An Autumn Serenade

Enjoy an Evening of Autumn Music

On Tuesday, October 20 at 7:30pm, experience the rich, lively sounds of autumn with the Columbus Concert Band, led by Annamaria Mazzaferro, as they launch their 2026/2027 season. Enjoy music by Louis Prima, John Philip Sousa, and George Gershwin, alongside jazz selections performed by the Columbus Jazz Band under Brian Menard. Special guest vocalist and musician David Malcolm joins the ensemble for this memorable performance. Presented in partnership with Columbus Concert Band.


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Ciociara/Canadese

Literature, Poetry and Storytelling with Gianna Patriarca

Celebrate the launch of Gianna Patriarca’s new book, “Ciociara/?/Canadese”, on Wednesday, October 21 at 7:30pm. Through readings, conversation, and reflection, and with an introduction by Professor Bruno Magliocchetti, Patriarca will explore themes of identity, memory, belonging, and Italian and Italian-Canadian experiences, drawing from both her new work and her acclaimed collection “Italian Women and Other Tragedies”.

 

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Leonardo Da Vinci Academy’s Full Day Italian Enriched Toddler Program

Our full-day Enriched Toddler Program, offered in partnership with Leonardo Da Vinci Academy, provides a nurturing Montessori environment for children ages 18 to 36 months. The program supports early development through hands-on activities that encourage independence, confidence, and language, motor, and social skills. Children will also be introduced to Italian language and culture through songs, stories, and daily conversation. Running until June 2027, limited spaces are available.


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Marco DeVuono

Book Your One-on-One Meeting for Friday Chats with Marco 

Book your Friday Chats with Marco! Take the opportunity to speak one-on-one with Marco DeVuono, President and CEO of Villa Charities Inc. to answer any questions or to share your thoughts on our programs and services. Our next meetings will be held tomorrow, October 2, and Friday, November 6.  Appointments are 20 minutes each, at 11:00am, and must be scheduled in advance. Contact us today to schedule your in-person or virtual meeting – call 416-789-7011 or email iusic@villacharities.com.

 

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Villa Charities Foundation

Maranello BMW 2026

Maranello BMW Donation Supports Villa Charities Scholarships

We are incredibly grateful to Maranello BMW for their generous donation of $10,891, raised through the Maranello BMW Golf Tournament held in June 2026. On Tuesday, September 29, Villa Charities President and CEO, Marco DeVuono joined Remo and Susan Ferri-Zampini along with the Maranello BMW team for the cheque presentation at the dealership. In total, Maranello BMW’s donation will support two graduate scholarships. Grazie mille to the entire Maranello BMW team!

An Evening With

Don’t Miss an Extraordinary Evening in Support of Villa Colombo Toronto

Tables and tickets are still available for “An Evening with Raine Maida & Chantal Kreviazuk”, in support of Villa Colombo Toronto, on Thursday, October 15 at Montecassino Hotel & Event Centre. Enjoy an unforgettable evening of music while helping raise critical early-stage funding to support the renovation of Villa Colombo Toronto and ensure it continues to meet the evolving needs of long-term care. Be part of this special evening and help build a stronger future for Villa Colombo Toronto.


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Columbus Centre

DanzArts

There’s Still Time to Join DanzArts Toronto!

It’s not too late to join DanzArts Toronto for the 2026/2027 dance season! With classes for dancers of all ages, experience levels, and interests, DanzArts Toronto offers professional-level training in a welcoming and inspiring environment where dancers can learn, grow, and do what they love. Explore the 2026/2027 Recreational Schedule to find the perfect class for you or your dancer. Don’t miss your chance to dance with us this season!


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Art Programs

Get Creative this Fall with our Art Workshops

Our 10-week Artista Painting Workshop series begins on Tuesday, October 6, led by professional artist and multi-award recipient Sam Paonessa. These classes are ideal for students who want to further develop their oil and acrylic painting skills and techniques. The Less Defined Landscape Painting Workshop begins Wednesday, October 7, encouraging students to explore landscapes through abstract approaches, unconventional techniques and colour palettes, while inspiring creativity and imagination.


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Swimming Lessons

Fall Swimming Registration Now Open – Fall Term begins October 5

Get ready to make a splash this fall! Swimming lessons are available for children and adults of all ages and skill levels, with programs designed to help swimmers build confidence and develop their skills. Looking to take your swimming skills to the next level? Bronze Medallion, Basic First Aid, and Bronze Cross courses are also available. Programs run for 8 weeks, with lessons beginning the week of October 5. Register in person at the Membership Office.

 

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Judo

Discover the Benefits of Judo at the Columbus Centre

Build strength, coordination, confidence, and practical self-defence skills with Judo at the Columbus Centre. Part of our Premium Fitness Classes, Judo is available for children, teens, and adults and focuses on balance, technique, and control in a structured and supportive environment. Classes are currently underway and continue through the week of November 25, with registration still open. Members and Non-Members are welcome to register.


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Keep Moving this Fall with Aquafit at the Columbus Centre!

Aquafit classes at the Columbus Centre Athletic Club offer a great way to build strength, improve mobility, and support cardiovascular fitness — all while being gentle on the joints. Choose from Water Mobility Training, Arthritic Aqua Training, and General Aquafit, with options to suit a variety of fitness levels and mobility needs. Registration is open and there’s still time to join a class and stay active in the water this season!


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Build Strength and Balance with Pilates this Fall!

Improve flexibility, build strength, and enhance balance with low-impact Pilates classes focused on core strength, controlled movement, posture, and mindful breathing. New to Pilates? Sign up for one free Pilates Demo Class, offered every Friday in October and November at 11:00am. This introductory class is a great way to experience Pilates and learn how it can support strength, flexibility, and body awareness. The demo is open to anyone who hasn’t attended a demo this session. Registration is required, spots are limited, and each person may attend one free demo class.


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Villa Colombo Toronto

VCTA Halloween Bingo

Get Ready for Halloween Bingo with Villa Colombo Toronto

Get into the Halloween spirit and join us for a fun evening of Halloween Bingo on Thursday, October 29 at 6:00pm at Villa Colombo – Sala Caboto. Enjoy a delicious buffet dinner and dessert, three bingo games, and use of a bingo dabber. Come enjoy an evening of good food, bingo, and community while celebrating 50 years of continued support for our residents.


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Villa Colombo Vaughan

VCV

Celebrating Community this September at Villa Colombo Vaughan

September was filled with opportunities for Villa Colombo Vaughan residents to celebrate, connect, and make lasting memories together. We welcomed the changing seasons with a festive “Goodbye Summer, Hello Fall” party, featuring refreshing summer drinks and cozy autumn treats. Later in the month, residents enjoyed a wonderful outing to Via Mercanti in Woodbridge, where they shared laughter, stories, and a delicious Italian meal among friends. In October, residents can look forward to a Thanksgiving Social celebrating gratitude, community, and seasonal traditions, followed by a cozy Fall Tea Party featuring warm refreshments, great conversation, and the simple joys of autumn.

Our Mission:

Enriching lives through experiences and services that honour Italian culture and heritage.


Our Vision:

Inspiring people to explore the Italian in all of us.


Villa Charities Inc.
901 Lawrence Ave W, Toronto, ON, M6A 1C3

416-789-7011 • info@villacharities.com • villacharities.com

Villa Charities Foundation Charitable Registration Number: 89337 0767 RR001


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