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"What's Trending" Newsletter
February 2026 Vol. 1
| | Celebrate the Beautiful Sounds of Italian Folk Music | | |
Hear the beautiful sounds of Italy as the Italian-Canadian musicians of Festa Popolare perform folk music from across the Italian peninsula and islands.
Blending centuries-old and modern instruments, the concert showcases the iconic sounds of the mandolin and violin alongside the guitar, mandola, chitarra battente, and more. From the charmingly simple to the stunning and virtuosic, enjoy a program that moves between familiar favourites and surprising styles seldom heard outside Italy.
Join us as this talented ensemble brings the country’s rich musical heritage to the Columbus Centre for one unforgettable night.
Date: Friday, February 27, 7:00-9:00pm
Price: $25.00 (Adults) / $20.00 (Seniors/Students)
Location: Joseph D. Carrier Art Gallery, Columbus Centre
| | | | Mary Pompili Named a 2026 CIBPA Women in Leadership Champion | |
Congratulations to Mary Pompili, Vice President, Marketing and Communications, on being named one of the 2026 Women in Leadership Champions by the Canadian Italian Business and Professional Association of Toronto (CIBPA). This well-deserved recognition honours women who drive change, shape strategy, and open doors for the next generation. Mary will be recognized at CIBPA’s Women in Leadership event on Thursday, March 5, 2026, in celebration of International Women’s Day.
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| | | | Voices of Julian-Dalmatian Writers and Artists in Canada | |
Explore the overlooked experiences of the Julian-Dalmatian exodus, and the impact these Italian immigrants have had on Canadian society. Join us on Tuesday, February 17 at 7:30pm for a presentation by Professor Konrad Eisenbichler, drawing from “Forgotten Italians: Julian-Dalmatian Writers and Artists in Canada”, a collection of essays examining the cultural and literary legacy of this community. The evening will include a Q&A, with book copies available for purchase while supplies last. Light refreshments will be served. Presented in partnership with the Club Giuliano Dalmato di Toronto.
Buy Tickets
| | | | Discover Works by Emerging Artists at “Figures in Flux” | |
Experience "Figures in Flux" at the Joseph D. Carrier Art Gallery from now until Friday, March 13. This exhibition examines the future of the fine artist within a creative landscape increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence. Featuring works by over 15 emerging artists, "Figures in Flux" highlights originality and creative freedom at a time when spontaneity and inspiration risk being replaced by the certainty of machine-generated imagery.
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| | | | Wednesday Nights are for Ballo Liscio | |
The Italian tradition of Ballo Liscio continues every Wednesday at the Columbus Centre from 6:30 to 8:30pm through April 29. Enjoy an evening of lively social dancing with music by popular Italian DJs and musicians. Everyone is welcome to join the fun, whether you bring a partner, friends, or come solo!
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| | | | Book Your One-on-One Meeting for 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 on Friday, February 6 and March 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.
Book Your Meeting
| | Villa Charities Foundation | | | | Register by February 22 for Giro and Save $100 | |
The Villa Charities Giro Cycling Fundraiser returns on Sunday, May 24, 2026, for a memorable day of cycling, community, and Italian spirit at the Veneto Centre. With route options for riders of all levels and rest stops featuring Italian-inspired treats, Giro 2026 offers something for everyone. Plus, register before February 22, 2026, to enjoy FREE registration—a $100 savings—just for signing up early.
Register Now
| | | | Build Skills and Confidence at Basketball Camp | |
Take your game to the next level at Basketball Camp at the Columbus Centre. Designed for children ages 8–12, this new summer camp focuses on developing strong basketball fundamentals, including dribbling, shooting, passing, and defence, while also building teamwork and sportsmanship. Campers will take part in skill-building drills, small group games, and full-court scrimmages in a positive and encouraging environment. Camps run from June 29 to August 28.
Register Now
| | | | Just Added! Learn to Play Banjo | |
The Columbus Centre School of Music is now offering banjo lessons as part of our string instruments, in addition to guitar, ukelele, and violin. One-on-one private lessons are open to students of all ages and experience levels. Whether you’re picking up an instrument for the first time or continuing your studies, our experienced instructors tailor lessons to individual interests and goals.
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| | | | Limited Spaces Left for Less Defined Landscape Painting | |
Don’t wait - only a few spots remain in the Less Defined Landscape painting workshop led by award-winning artist Sam Paonessa. Integrating both landscape and abstract techniques, this oil or acrylic workshop encourages students to interpret, simplify, and edit photo references using less traditional methods and colour palettes, while fostering creativity and imagination.
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| | | | Give the Gift of Relaxation this Valentine’s Day | |
Treat yourself or a loved one to the benefits of Wellness services at the Columbus Centre Athletic Club. Choose from Massage Therapy, Hot Stone Therapy, or Modern Cupping, each offering stress relief and relaxation. Book your session today or surprise someone special with a thoughtful gift certificate, perfect for Valentine’s Day!
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| | | | Last Chance for New Members to Save 50%* | |
You’re in luck! Due to popular demand, the Columbus Centre Athletic Club has extended its special offer for new members for a limited time only. Join by February 15 and enjoy zero enrollment fees and 50% off your first two months*. Members enjoy access to an 11,000 sq. ft. main gym, state-of-the-art strength training equipment, squash and racquetball courts, a large indoor pool, an indoor running track, and a wide range of group fitness classes — all under one roof.
*Conditions apply. See website for full details.
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| | | | Upgrade Your Workouts with Premium Fitness Programs | |
Take your workouts further this winter with one of our Premium Fitness Programs at the Columbus Centre Athletic Club. Choose from a variety of options Non-Contact Boxing, TRX®, Judo, Squash, and more. Led by certified instructors, these classes focus on proper technique and form while creating a supportive and engaging experience. Open to both Members and Non-Members, these specialized programs go beyond our general fitness classes and offer the chance to explore new disciplines.
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| | | | Turn Your Next Celebration into a Pool Party! | |
Host your next birthday or special celebration at the Columbus Centre Athletic Club! Our indoor pool rentals offer a fun and memorable experience for guests of all ages, complete with certified staff on-site to ensure a safe and stress-free celebration. Visit our website for full pricing and details.
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| | | | Villa Colombo Vaughan: January Highlights | January at Villa Colombo Vaughan began with meaningful moments that brought our community together. We welcomed 2026 by travelling from Casa to Casa on New Year’s Day with non-alcoholic cider, ensuring everyone had the opportunity to ring in the new year with cheer, connection, and a shared toast. On January 6, the community celebrated La Befana, a cherished Italian tradition marking the Epiphany. One of our staff members brought the folkloric figure to life while the team visited residents with music, laughter, and tangerines, creating a joyful and memorable cultural celebration. | | |
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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