Local dive bar asks for support during financial difficulties

PALM DESERT, Calif. (KESQ) - The Hood Bar and Pizza, known for its drag bingo nights, karaoke, and live music, has been a staple in Palm Desert for years. But Brad Guth, owner, says personal health struggles have placed the bar in a difficult position.

Despite his health concerns, Guth continues to work long hours to keep the doors open, often taking on additional responsibilities after cutting back to reduce expenses.

“When you are in a situation where you are working 12-14 hours a day, it does take its toll on you... At a venue that really does cater to local clientele, if you loose that local clientele it’s very difficult in many cases to get them to return.”

Brad Guth, The Hood Bar & Pizza Owner

Helping keep the bar running is Lady Sham, a local drag queen and host of drag bingo at The Hood. She says inflation and increased costs for food and liquor have made running the business even more challenging.

“It’s the pinch that everyone’s feeling. Rising costs, we all are having problems making ends meet. Can you imagine running a business like this where you have to find food, liquor? You have to buy all these things that are marked up and way more expensive.”

Sham Ibrahim, Drag Queen

Seeing Guth struggle, Lady Sham decided to step in. She created a GoFundMe campaign aimed at helping him stabilize the business and take time to focus on his health.

While the future of The Hood Bar and Pizza remains uncertain, Guth says he’s hopeful the community that has supported the bar for years will rally once again.

“I’m still digging myself out of that hole and everyday I’m digging and working towards it.”

Brad Guth, The Hood Bar & Pizza Owner

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