Mancini’s Char House, Cossetta’s Italian Restaurant, and Mahler Music Center Join Forces for a Good Cause -

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The West 7th community is buzzing with excitement as three local businesses have come together to perform at a breast cancer benefit event. This unexpected collaboration showcases Pat Mancini from Mancini’s Char House, Dave Cossetta from Cossetta’s Italian Restaurant, and Ken Mahler from Mahler Music Center, accompanied by their fellow bandmates known as the Goombas.

Band members Ken Mahler, Dave Cossetta, Soby Meza, Dan Vruno and Mike Brennen started their friendships while attending kindergarten at Jefferson Elementary. Dave, Pat, and Ken born and raised in the West 7th area all grew up together. Over the years, these three men developed strong bonds.

In later years, Pat, Soby and Ken faced personal loss of loved ones and battling cancer. Despite the many challenges of building his business, Dave decided to form a band, aptly named the “Goombas,” to help others heal through music.

Since its inception, the band has grown in size and talent, with the addition of two female singers, Brienne LaHay and Katie Jensen, as well as other talented musicians such as Tony Guscetti and Mark Arnason. The chemistry between the band members is evident in their energetic and entertaining performances.

But what makes this event even more special is the involvement of Rick Svoboda Jr., the father of their breast cancer champion and nephew of Ken Mahler. Rick, a polished performer in his own right, had put his drumming days behind him to focus on his career and family. To honor his daughter, Rick has dusted off his drums to join the band. This family connection adds a personal touch to the event and shows the true spirit of the community coming together to support one of their own.

The breast cancer champion is Alisha (Svoboda) Bauer, also the beloved granddaughter of Richard and Geraldine Svoboda, long-time members of the West 7th community. Alisha has dedicated her career to helping others by working as a crisis hotline counselor and providing healthcare services to seniors and those with Alzheimer’s. Now, she needs the community’s support; despite having limited insurance, she will be facing a full mastectomy, follow-up care and better living conditions.

On Sunday, October 13th from ll:00 am – 3:00 pm, the community will have the chance to come together and support Alisha at a benefit event held at Mancini’s Char House. The event will feature live music from the Goombas, Tony Garry Band (Solo), Ken Mahler Trio (revival) and The Vallee de Croix Choir. Attendees will also enjoy delicious food from Cossetta’s Italian Restaurant (from 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm), participate in various activities, a Halloween costume contest and chances to win prizes.

This is not only a chance to support local businesses and enjoy great music, but it’s an opportunity to show Alisha that she is not alone in this battle. The community’s support and love will undoubtedly provide her with the strength needed to fight this disease.

We are grateful to Pat Mancini, Dave Cossetta and Ken Mahler, along with all of the band members, and choir performers, for their involvement in this event and for using their talents to make a difference in the community. So mark your calendars, get your tickets and let’s make this event a success. Together, we can show Alisha and her family that they have a strong and supportive community behind them.

Pre-sale tickets can be purchased from Mancini’s Char House (after 2 pm) or Mahler Music Center (Monday-Saturday from 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.) or online until October 11th. Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to come together, have fun and make a positive difference in Alisha’s life.

Breast Cancer Benefit Featuring the Goombas

Sunday, October 13th. 11:00 am – 3 p.m. Mancini’s Char House

Food from 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm
Get your tickets early, a sell-out is expected. Ticket price: $25.00 pre-sale, $30.00 at the door. Bring your best to win the costume contest.

Can’t make it, but would like to donate to our cause, please visit: Alisha (Svoboda) Bauer Benefit Fund

Prayers and well wishes are also greatly appreciated!

Thank you!

Family of Alisha (Svoboda) Bauer