Henrietta Crew
Lisa C
A born and bred New Yorker, Lisa learned the business through her many experiences as a former bartender at the original Cubby Hole, which occupied the space prior to Henrietta Hudson. Due to popular demand from her customers, Lisa decided to purchase the empty space left by the Cubby Hole and through the help of some friends including co-owner Minnie Rivera, brought it back to life. Wanting to choose a name that remained timeless, she decided to feminize the river which is three blocks away and call the bar Henrietta Hudson. Now, as the premier owner of the hottest lesbian bar in New York, Lisa extends her expertise in recognizing the value of having a staff that draws in the crowd.
“Social responsibility is what it’s all about” if you ask Lisa C. who has become quite the philanthropist and community activist. Lisa Cannistraci feels true passion “lies in community activism, grass roots politics and providing a safe and happy environment for the LGBT community.” She is a Member of her local Community Board which allows her to develop and improve the quality of life to LGBT youth in her neighborhood and utilize her “green thumb” to advise on park & recreation renovation projects. She defines her philanthropic activities as being deeply rooted and connected to a community of people who historically had to fight and conquer for their rights as human beings – which is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year – and had “to fashion a life out of nothing”, giving each other support with “good grace” and encouragement. Social responsibility has become a lifestyle for Lisa, an integral part of how she views, loves and appreciates the world.
Minnie
Minnie is one of the original partners for Henrietta Hudson and a prominent figure in the lesbian scene since the early 1980′s. Back then, Minnie had started a lesbian tour company called Women On The Move and soon after, she opened up her first lesbian bar called Network on 16th street and 6th Ave. “There was no place for women to go back then,” describes Minnie. Then, in the early 90′s, she hooked up with Lisa C., while she was still a bartender at the Cubby Hole. After a few good conversations and an inexplicable intuition, they went into business together and decided to open up Henrietta Hudson in 1991. She attributes much of the Henrietta success to Lisa C. and her dedication to the bar. “I am so pleased with the crowd,” explains Minnie. “Over the years, you see so many changes that it is wonderful to be a part of what has come together. I still think we are limitless in what we can achieve.”
Desiree
Although she lives “out on the island” now with her lady and extended furry family, desiree will always be a Brooklyn girl at heart. Grab a spot at Desiree’s bar during her famous Friday happy hour (if you can find one that is) and you’ll be sure to leave with a handful of goldfish, a strong drink, and even stronger advice. With the best buns in the business, she’s been there thru all of Henrietta’s transformations and has seen it all – so, don’t mess with Des unless youre looking for some serious words of wisdom and a reality check. Outside of the bar, though, Desiree lends her strong spirit towards helping stray animals by placing them in her care and nurturing them to full health. Des seeks happy homes when placing them back up for adoption. To find out more about how you can become involved in desiree’s animal rescue efforts or if you are interested in becoming an adoptee, you can reach des by email at des541@yahoo.comor stop by Friday afternoon or Saturday evening.
Lisa G aka dj GEE
MIX MASTER GEE!
[MIX]– The drinks .. & the Music!
[MASTER]– Well.. she is the boss.. and does the annual fetish party ring a bell?? lol
Lisa kicked off her lesbian fame as her photo was published in New York Magazine’s 1993 “lesbian chic” issue that featured KD Lang on the cover. From corporate America over to the lesbian bar culture, Lisa transitioned as she covered all job positions @ Henrietta’s from a $30 bar back to an owner and operator. Lisa is responsible for creating mostly all of the advertisements, photography and marketing for NYC’s #1 lesbian bar. Lisa is a proud manager of the ongoing incredible Henrietta staff and personal winner of many GO Magazine Reader’s Choice Awards most notably, Best Bartender and Saturday Night DJ.
Lisa believes and instills in “creating memories” at Henrietta’s. Lisa is also a clear role model and example of self-pride, confidence and leadership. Lisa says whole heartily, “self-love and acceptance are critical to one’s own growth as a person and therefore one’s contribution to the world”. “We are our own worst enemy when it comes to accepting being gay and coming out of the closet. Once that process is underway and self-love begins, there is no stopping anyone from anything they want to accomplish and share”.
A big fan of continued education, Lisa is back in college again, this time for Holistic Healthcare. After a recent and complete change in her own lifestyle, Lisa shares all of her nutrition knowledge with staff and patrons alike, leading a newfound Henrietta health movement. Lisa has a 90% non-smoking staff and creates direction towards a positive movement in responsible drinking behavior. In other words, if you go too far pass the tipsy mark, don’t be surprised when you get cut off by one of NYC’s favorite bartenders!
Dot
“Where’s Dot?” Alright, so she’s not the most punctual lesbian in the new gay world, but she always makes it up with her loving charm, bright smiles and beaming blond mohawk. If you’re really lucky, she may even cook for you! It’s never a real party until Dot rolls up! Known for her front door greeting, decorating direction & jello shot skills, you’ll find her working the front door on Friday night, bartending Wednesday night and transforming Henrietta’s right before every major holiday. Veteran of the scene, many of you know her from Crazy Nanny’s and LoverGirl NYC. “What? $40 dollas ??!!!” Well, thats just another great trademark you’ll have to come in to find out about.
Kim aka dj KIM DAZY
Resident DJ Kim Dazy is nationally known for her hot house and hip hop beats. She’s won BEST HOUSE DJ year after year and co-hosts the award winning house party REVOLUTION bi-monthly. This DJ rarely takes requests so don’t try asking for any La India, but you’ll definitely stand a better chance with some Lady Gaga. Kim also bartends Tuesday Karaoke, Thursday afternoons and Saturday nights with Des. You may have heard her spin her skills at past Gay Disney’s, P-TOWN Memorial Wknd, and every Gay PRIDE PIER PRESSURE party. After a few heinekens and cherry bombs, you’ll be in tummy-aching giggles with her silly jokes and infectious laughter.
Sharon
If you want a drink, you better order it right the first time when you patron this feisty Colombian’s bar. Catch her in the right song at the right time though, and she might challenge you to a vogue off. Decipher through the accent and learn to speak the Sharito language of affectionate name-calling and overly aggressive hugs and opinions, and you just might find yourself a great new friend. You can find Sharon shaking it up every Friday and Saturday night. “I’m the best, I know. You love it, am I right?”
Lina
This Colombian cutie really knows how to put a little heat into the Henrietta household. She started as a cocktail waitress after her “legalizing” birthday in June – yes a Gemini. Do not be intimidated by her ultra feminine looks, although it is those femmie looking butches that you have to watch out for. Proceed with caution though, as this is Lisa G & Sharon’s little sister!!!!
Jacaria
School teacher by day Henrietta girl by night, Jacaria is always working when she should be drinking AND drinking when she should be working. She’ll never turn down a chilled shot of DON JULIO! Jacaria usually is seen in one of her cute baby t’s and if you’re lucky you’ll catch her giving away free shots on the bar. Confirmed shopaholic and flirt, you can always catch her talking about her latest collection of t-shirts, dvds, and girls’ phone numbers.
Liz
Yet another Henrietta Colombiana, this luscious lady oozes sexy sass no matter what she’s doing- pouring shots on the bar, waitressing through the crowd, or dancing with friends and patrons. It’s easy to be intimidated by her sizzling beauty and charismatic energy, but this humble soul is one of the friendliest chicas on staff and is always down for a shot, dance or conversation.
Majik
A true southerner from North Carolina, bringing her southern charm and hospitality to Henrietta’s. Known as net by day and Majik by night, you can catch her southern swagger in action working the front door on Saturday nights greeting and welcoming women with a smile that can light up a room. She’ll make you feel at home before you even step foot into Henrietta’s. Newly engaged, you will often find Majik enjoying the Henrietta spirit & spirits w/ fiance Dawn. They love their jager bombs, cherry bombs & car bombs- if Captain Morgan only had a bomb! These two also tag team the Henrietta myspace community with all the latest info, gossip & photos!
Tameka
“Oh, E(at) honey E(at)” is Tameka’s notorious supporting advice for all you girls out there looking to hook-up. Handy woman by day and Henrietta’s bartender & barback by night, you can catch her sweeping every spot of the floor and street within site and making delicious mojitos every Saturday afternoon. If you make it til 4am with Tameka, you will be lucky enough to listen in to one of her wake up MOM calls- absolutely hysterical in the wee early morning hours! Don’t forget to make your mark in her infamous book in the making: What I Want In A Girl – a Collection of Lists.
Maria
I’ve never done this before” Yeah, that’s what she said a little over a year ago. Once upon a time, Maria was a shy and timid straight girl. You can now find her ripping it up by the DJ booth in a breasty Hens beater and a pair of converse with her watiress tray tossed aside. Single and always ready to mingle, make sure you cum correct – with a vodka and tonic in hand that is! Don’t get it twisted though, you don’t have to hit on her to get to know her. Maria is one of the friendliest new staff members and can add a little extra sunshine to anyone’s day with just a smile. Paralegal by day and waitress by night, she believes that ” when you realize your destiny, the whole universe conspires to help you achieve it.” Yes, that applies to both law and girls.
Shawn
Shawn, a 33yr old Manhattan-ite, has worked in the entertainment industry for quite some time. With a security background from the legendary “KRASH” in Queens & Manhattan, Shawn
has seen the drama from everywhere & back. During the day she is a “Program Coordinator”, dealing with all types of personalities– great experience for working the Henrietta door which greets many personality types from all over the world. Shawn has an
interesting way of telling you to keep it down when you are too loud in the pit (we r in a wonderful residential neighborhood- ya know!) Don’t let her intimidation frighten you too much – teddy bear undercover!
Shawn says: “I do my best to keep you safe & quiet when I’m on duty yet ensuring that you have a good time. You
can leave the drama at the door, or actually….. take it inside where it belongs.. @ the bar “DRAMA NIGHT” is FRIDAY fyi.. girl drama that is!!!!”
Noelle
Detention officer by day, boi toi by night! Is Jersey in da house??? Veteran customer turned staff as often happens at the HEN HOUSE! This Sagittarius makes for one slammin barback…… plus bartender on demand when needed! Favorite drinks between ice runs… lol… a Cherry bomb quickie!
Kara
Born and raised in the Midwest, Kara moved here 7 years ago on a basketball scholarship and graduated with a degree in Physiology/Biology. Kara is a former division one athlete and coach’s college basketball for a career. Under the fitted’s she loves to wear (not at Hens’s though), she sports that beauty that got her a signed modeling gig here in NY where she does commercial print. Kara loves to travel, having hit 47 of the states and has driven across the country over 12 times. Kara loves to work out, play basketball, and volunteer for animal care in her free time.
Mercedes
New to the Hen’s family is the lightest skin Dominican you’ll ever find. This genuine Jersey girl comes from across the Hudson with her inquisitive eyes and welcoming smile. If you are a Friday happy hour “regular”, than you already know she’s a total sweetie pie, unless she has to butch it up for a security moment but not likely!
