Don’t miss your chance to experience this intimate live concert inspired by the legendary women of jazz in celebration of International Women’s Day. Award-winning jazz vocalist Joanna Majoko takes the stage tomorrow at 7:30pm, joined by guitarist Andrew Marzotto. The evening features a thoughtfully curated program highlighting iconic artists and composers such as Nina Simone, Ella Fitzgerald, and Billie Holiday, as well as others who shaped the jazz tradition, alongside a contemporary repertoire. Tickets are still available!

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Villa Charities, in partnership with Borgo Universo, invites Canadian visual artists between the ages of 18 to 35 to apply for the Aielli Mural Project. One artist will be selected to travel to Aielli, Italy to create a permanent mural within its internationally recognized open-air gallery. Located in the Abruzzo region, Aielli has experienced a cultural renaissance through public art and community engagement. The selected artist will receive a $1,000 CAD stipend, round-trip economy airfare to Rome, accommodation, and materials. The deadline to apply is Friday, March 13 at 5:00pm EDT.

Watch the CityNews Toronto segment here.

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We’re excited to introduce a new lecture series examining the evolution of democracy from Ancient Greece to today’s political world. “Democracy: Origins, Transformations and Global Legacies” runs from March 17 to November 3, 2026, and includes four lectures led by University of Toronto lecturer and researcher Giulio Leghissa. The series begins on Tuesday, March 17 at 6:00pm with “Democracy: The Ancient Origin of a Modern Concept.” In the first lecture, Giulio Leghissa traces its development from Classical Greece through the Renaissance and into the contemporary United States, examining how this influential political idea took shape. Admission is free, but advanced registration is required.

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Introduce your child to the Italian language this spring with our Italian Immersion Toddler Program, presented in partnership with Leonardo Da Vinci Academy. Designed for children aged 1 to 3, this fun-filled program explores Italian language and culture through play, songs, and engaging activities led by a genuine Italian instructor with years of experience. The 12-week session runs from March 30 to June 15, 2026, on Mondays, Wednesdays, and/or Fridays from 9:00 - 10:00am at the Columbus Centre. A parent or guardian must accompany each child.

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Discover personal stories shaped by migration and resettlement within the Julian-Dalmatian immigrant community on Tuesday, April 7 at 7:30pm. The stories are drawn from “The Other Half of the Apple: Conversations with Julian-Dalmatian Immigrants in Canada, the USA, and Italy”, a book by Rosanna Turcinovich Giuricin based on her meetings and discussions with members of the community. The evening will feature a presentation by Professor Konrad Eisenbichler, who translated the book into English, with remarks from Daniela Chiasson, President of the Club Giuliano Dalmato di Toronto. A Q&A will follow, with book copies available for purchase while supplies last. Presented in partnership with the Club Giuliano Dalmato di Toronto.

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Welcome spring with a live concert featuring the Columbus Concert Band, the Columbus Jazz Band, and special guest soprano Taylor Frisina. Under the direction of Annamaria Mazzaferro, this special performance on Tuesday, April 14 at 7:30pm will showcase a lively program of popular band classics, including selections from “West Side Story,” music by The Beatles, and works by Giuseppe Verdi. Experience a delightful and uplifting musical evening perfect for all ages. Presented in partnership with the Columbus Concert Band.

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Ballo Liscio social dancing continues every Wednesday at the Columbus Centre from 6:30 to 8:30pm through April 29. Enjoy an evening rooted in Italian tradition, featuring music by popular DJs and musicians. Whether you come with a partner, friends, or on your own, everyone is welcome on the dance floor.

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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, March 13 and April 3. 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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We are proud to share that LiUNA OPDC is returning as Presenting Sponsor of the 19^th Annual Villa Charities Giro Cycling Fundraiser. Their continued support helps make Giro more than just a ride, it’s a celebration of cycling, community, and Italian culture for participants of all skill levels. Grazie mille, LiUNA OPDC for your ongoing support!

We are also pleased to welcome Clearway Cares as our Route and Sweep Car Sponsor. Their continued support will enhance the event-day experience and help ensure a safe and enjoyable ride for all participants.

Finally, we are thrilled to share that TLN Media Group will be returning as our Exclusive In-Kind Media Partner, helping us amplify the spirit and impact of Giro across the community. We’re also excited to welcome TLN personality Antonio Giorgi back as our event day emcee, bringing his energy and enthusiasm to the event.

With 50% off registration until March 31^st, there has never been a better time to sign up, start fundraising, and be part of this exciting event.

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The Columbus Centre Athletic Club offers Arthritic Aqua Training and Deep End Aquafit, both designed to strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and provide a low-impact aerobic workout in warm, soothing water. Registration opens Monday, March 9 for Members and Non-Members, online through our website or in-person at the Membership Office during office hours. Spring term classes begin the week of April 6, 2026.

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Step into a world of adventure and creativity at Minecraft Redstone Development Camp at the Columbus Centre. Guided by instructors, campers ages 8–12 will take on new challenges, complete themed building projects, and work together to design imaginative worlds. Along the way, they’ll practice problem-solving, collaboration, and critical thinking — all while having an amazing time inside their favourite game. This camp is available the week of August 10–15.

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Take time for yourself this Wellness Month at the Columbus Centre Athletic Club. Prioritize your well-being with programs designed to support self-care, mindfulness, and stress relief. From Yoga and Pilates to Meditation and Massage Therapy, choose classes and services that help you reset, restore energy, and feel your best throughout March.

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Host your next birthday or special celebration at the Columbus Centre Athletic Club. Our indoor pool is available for private rentals and offers a fun and memorable experience for guests of all ages, complete with certified staff on-site to ensure a safe and stress-free event. Visit our website for full pricing and details.

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Family, friends, and fellow residents gathered to honour Savina Zanatta, who recently celebrated her 100^th birthday. Savina has called Casa Abruzzo home since 1996, and her remarkable milestone was marked with a joyful celebration alongside loved ones and staff. Our heartfelt congratulations to Savina on this extraordinary occasion.

February was a month of love, celebration, and sweet moments at Villa Colombo Vaughan. Residents marked World Nutella Day with delicious Nutella bombes shared among staff and friends, celebrating this beloved Italian treat. Thoughtful Valentine’s cards donated by Glamour Girls were personally delivered to residents, spreading warmth and connection throughout the community. A special Couples Valentine’s Day lunch honoured our married residents, followed by live accordion music featuring traditional Italian love songs. Valentine’s festivities continued with a joyful Hearts & Smiles Photo Day, capturing treasured memories. The month also featured a lively musical performance by Dia, who entertained residents and visiting families with Italian classics and popular favourites.

The Kindred Spirits Orchestra, under the direction of Maestro Kristian Alexander, presents “Virtuosity and Revolution” on Saturday, March 21, 2026 at 8:00pm at the Meridian Arts Centre – George Weston Recital Hall. The program opens with Manuel de Falla’s “El Sombrero de tres picos” (The Three-Cornered Hat) suite, inspired by Andalusian folk and flamenco traditions. Acclaimed Italian pianist Antonio Di Cristofano performs Ravel’s “Piano Concerto in G,” and the evening concludes with Shostakovich’s “Symphony No. 12.” The concert will be hosted by Daniel Vnukowski of New Classical 96.3 FM.

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