Streetbar is being honored as the Community Grand Marshal for November’s Greater Palm Springs Pride Parade, it was announced Tuesday.
The Pride organization recognizes a Community Grand Marshal each year to symbolically lead the parade. Those chosen are recognized for the positive impact they’ve made in the region. Streetbar is being honored as a community steward for its work supporting organizations and fundraising efforts that span 30 years.
Streetbar, located at 224 E. Arenas Rd., paved the way for the Arenas Road business district, which has long been recognized as the hub of LGBTQ-friendly nightlife and shopping in Palm Springs.
Dick Haskamp and Hank Morgan opened Streetbar In August 1991. Haskamp passed away in March 2018, however his vision of charity work as a core value of Streetbar continues.
“As Streetbar celebrates their 30th Anniversary, Palm Springs is fortunate that Dick’s legacy of philanthropy and community support lives on,” said Ron deHarte, president of Greater Palm Springs Pride. “I think he would be beaming with pride along with a visible teardrop or two, seeing Streetbar today. We are delighted to honor Streetbar for embracing and supporting the local community.”
Streetbar has a longstanding tradition of bringing the community together with unique events. Since its opening, the staff and customers of Streetbar have raised funds for local charities, including the Aids Assistance Program (AAP), The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert (The Center), and the Palm Springs Animal Shelter. For many years, the organizations benefited from Streetbar’s two major fundraising events, the Holiday Wreath Auction and the ArtWall Project.
“Dick always said it was the best staff, a good drink and a friendly atmosphere that garnered Streetbar the loyal customers and its great success,” said David Farnsworth, current co-owner of Streetbar. “Even after a difficult and treacherous past year, what remains clear is the remarkable people that stand behind that bar every day providing a friendly smile and excellent service, as well as the longtime behind-the-scenes support staff that clean, maintain the bar, and keep things moving that have made it possible for Streetbar to prevail and persevere for 30 years.”
The Pride Parade on Sunday, November 7 is a free community event that steps off on North Palm Canyon Drive at East Tachevah Drive at 10 AM.
