NY Senate Salute to Pride

On Thursday, October 11, I was invited to attend a special reception held by The New York State Senate Democratic Conference to honor our State's LGBT Community and to coincide with National Coming Out Day. The gala was held in a ballroom in New York City Hall and hosted by NY State Senate Democratic Leader Malcolm A. Smith and Out NY State Senator Tom Duane. I am on the Broad of two Democratic organizations (Stonewall Democrats and Jim Owles Liberal Democrats) where I provide an inclusive Transgender viewpoint. I'm always pushing boundaries and hope to make being Transgender and alternative Gender expression a more acceptable way of being. The Senate honored a dear friend and Tony Award winning actress (Grey Gardens) Christine Ebersole; the world renowned Oscar and Tony Award winning actress Vanessa Redgrave; Platinum Recording artist Deborah Cox; Emmy nominee and Creator of the hit tv show, The Closer, James Duff; Grammy Award winning musician Janis Ian; Director, writer and producer Lee Rose and others. I was wonderful to meet Ms. Redgrave. She spoke about her famous father, Sir Michael Redgrave being a Bisexual. She also spoke of her performance as a Lesbian grieving the loss of her long-time partner in the HBO series If These Walls Could Talk. I had a great time meeting up with NYC Council Members Rosie Mendez and Bill De Blasio, Jim Owles Liberal Democrats President Alan Roskoff, columnist Jimmy Brezlin, Andy Humm from Gay USA tv series, Dirk McCall, Michael Collossi, Scott Talbolt, Howie V, Yetta Kurland and others. After the reception at City Hall was over, we headed to the after-party at Splash Bar nightclub in Chelsea were we met up with promoter Beto Suter, Splash owner and manager Greg Jones and Drag Performer Shequida.

Come OUT and Swim in Philly

On October 6, I went to one of my favorite cities, Philadelphia, to attend the Come OUT and Swim International Swim Meet. The event was hosted by the Philadelphia Fins, Philly's GLBT master swim team, providing social and recreation activities with organized and coached swimming events, providing a sense of Pride and Community. I went on my trip with Tony Sawicki and Stephanie Butler to produce a segment for our TV series, Under the Pink Carpet. We want to show how Sports and recreational events are also part of Queer Culture. We had a fantastic time meeting all the guys and gals who came for all over the country to compete in the meet. They gave us wonderful interviews and looked great in their swim-wear. The event was held at the beautiful Olympic sized swimming pools at Suburban Swim Center, located just outside of Philly. The Swim Meet was held in conjunction with Philly Pride's Outfest Celebration during the National Coming Out Day festivities, including a street fair. I always love seeing the Liberty Bell and having cheese steaks and cream cheese when I visit the City of Brotherly Love. But now I'll always remember seeing hundreds of wet and adorable men in Philly. Congratulations to the Philadelphia Fins for hosting and producing such a awesome and remarkable event!

Pictured are Bradly and Brad from TNYA (Team New York Aquatics), Ryan and Corey from the Philadelphia Fins (the cute couple in matching pink speedos).

Clover at Caroline's on Broadway

On Sunday, September 30, I had my first performance at the premiere Comedy Club, Caroline's on Broadway, a venue for stand-up comedy located in Times Square/Broadway Theater District in New York City on Broadway between 49th and 50th Streets. Caroline's is one of the most established, famous and recognized stand-up comedy clubs in the USA. Many of the top comedy headliners have performed at Caroline's, including Pee Wee Herman, Jerry Seinfeld, Jay Leno, Andrew Dive Clay, Gilbert Gottfried, Andy Borowits, Colin Quinn, Mitch Hedberg and many others. I'm so thrilled that I was able to entertain and get some laughs on the same stage that so many other talented comedy professionals have been on.

I studied stand up comedy with Linda Smith, a two time Emmy nominee, comedian and comedy writer. Others who have learned the art of creating laughter with me also performed in the comedy showcase. Many of my friends showed up to support my debut Caroline's performance, including my genetic sister who came in with a friend from NJ. Having good friends and family to cheer you on, really makes a big difference when you are a performer. My (genetic/bio) sister, Karen Meola and friends Terry Ulrich, Alica Pettie Pie, Howie V, Stephanie Butler, Rita Petite, Madelyn Madelaine, Mark Levine, Walter, Paul Simpton, Mike Cabon, Jim, David, Tommy, Brandon, Barry, Chris, Steve, Alex Howelle, and others came to give me support.

The show was hosted by Jimmy Failla and the others doing stand-up comedy included: Chris Jammal, April Roberts, Michael Reese, Gina Wright, Nick Vale, Brian Masefield, Sarah Spigelman, Anthony Cauiglia, Carla Milo and Dion Forest.






















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Clover Honey is FRONT PAGE NEWS!!

Extra! Extra! Read all about it!!! I made front page of a newspaper again!!! My photograph and name appeared on the front page of The Brooklyn Paper, (Sept.22, 2007 Vol.30, No.37) the largest and most prestigious newspaper focused on Brooklyn, New York City's largest and 2nd most populated Borough! The story was about the Queer community being angry and disappointed with Marty Markowitz, Brooklyn Borough President, for endorsing what Queer activists call an "unethical bigot" for civil court judge. Markowitz endorsed former NY Council member Noach Dear who consistently voted against Lesbian, Gay, Bi and Transgender civil rights legislation. The photograph printed on the front page was taken in June at the Borough President's official Gay Pride celebration at Brooklyn Borough Hall and is a picture of Mr. Markowitz with myself as Brooklynite Diva Mae West on one side and Howie V impersonating Cher on the other side. The caption under the photo reads -

"In Happier Times: Borough President Markowitz parties with gender-benders Howie V Cher and Clover Honey during a Gay Pride Week event at Borough Hall in June."

Birthdays for Cowboys, MTV VJs and more!

Everyone loves a birthday bash and on September 7, my dear friend Randy Jones, the original Cowboy from the disco classic group the Village People held the most fabulous party ever, celebrating not only his special day, but also the birthdays of promoter Keith Collins and MTV vj Thalia DeCosta. It was at the very hip ReTreat nightclub in Chelsea were hundreds of us mingled and partied the night away. Right before the event I had a photo shoot with famous photographer Sabrina Scott in a huge stretch limousine. So I arrived at the Birthday bash in high style via chauffeured limo with Sabrina and my Transgender model friend Madelyn Madelaine! At the soiree, it was no surprise to see Randy looking more handsome and energetic as ever! It's always a good time with Randy and his husband, composer and arranger Will Grega. Kieth Collins and Thalia were also so much fun. Also enjoying themselves were Michele Rodriguez (Lost, Girlfight), Jill Michele-Milean (Reno 911, Mad TV), Playgirl Centerfold model Danny Lopes, actor Ben Curis, filmmaker Wolfgang Busch and many others.

OUT Music Hostess

On Monday, September 3, I was the hostess for the monthly OUT Music Out Loud performance at Rockwood Music Hall in Manhattan's Lower East Side. Out Music is an organization the promotes and supports Openly Queer singers, songwriters and musicians. Out Music also provides valuable networking for collaborations and peer support. Every month there is a show to provide opportunities to share music, try out new ideas, and have fun in a safe space. Every month there is a different host and in September it was me. The handsome Jed Ryan, columnist, reviewer and producer produces the open mics and keeps them happening. The diverse talent that showed by and gave wonderful performances that evening included: Amy Clarke, Evan Laurence, Neil Dick, Mark Aaron James, Frank Grimaldi, Michael Lynch, John Raymond Pollard, Morry Campbell, Mary Edwards, Robert German, John Manion, Athena Reich, Mac, and newcomer Marvin. Marvin announced that he was the only Black person in the room. Black singer Michael Lynch quickly objected and it became a running joke for the evening. I performed "Don't Tell Mama" with some re-written lyrics to apply to my persona. Rob Tannon and Morry Campbell were celebration their 20 year anniversary of being a couple. Wow! I guess anything really is possible!!

Celebration of Life

“John Henry Rew, III of Chelsea, passed away on August 23rd to the shock of all who knew and loved him. An accident within his eighth avenue apartment took this beloved spirit away from the world. John Henry was an infectious light who is best remembered by his engaging smile, captivating laugh and open loving heart. He traveled far and reached many with his available friendship and generosity. His endeavors included the Gay Games, the Mavericks softball team, judging beauty contests, MC'ing events, dancing in musicals and on television with Club MTV, promoting parties, including RAH!, Fluid, A la MODE, The DYNASTY, Pop Rocks, Thursday Night at Duvet and his memorable fetes at home. John Henry Rew made NYC an even better place to be and we all owe a generous recognition of thank you to this benevolent red-haired friend. John Henry, wherever you are, please put me on the VIP-list and save me a drink ticket.” – Thanks to singer John Tedeschi and Patric Zabatta for providing this for all of us with email blasts to send it out.
It's been sad and difficult for myself and others to hear of this terrible news. John has always been such a warm, fun and valued person that myself and countless others were honored to have in our lives. On August 30, his New York City friends had a huge Celebration of his life where we wore Orange, his favorite color and the color of his hair and his infamous orange sarong. His friend and Drag hostess and performer at most of his event, Nomi DeMilo performed "Lucy in the Sky With Diamonds" at the end of the service as a tribute to him. Others who attended the memorial tribute included Michael Musto of Village Voice, Will Clark, John Tedeschi, Mark Schulte, Joe Fiore, Melissa Sklarz, Scott Talbolt and many friends, family and members of the Maverick Baseball team of the Big Apple Baseball League.

Sexahol Revue again

On Thursday, August 23, I was once again a featured performer in Sexahol Review, a performance art showcase with unique and various Downtown talent including both Straight and Queer, Men and Women entertainers. With the sexy burlesque Diva Nasty Canasta who drove the crowd wild with her unique, comedic and still erotic movements. Fantastic Genius did some hilarious skit comedy. David Slone performed some old classic songs re-mixed to modern hip hop musical tones, like Peggy Lee's "Why Don't You do Right?." I told some jokes and sang a Rosemary Clooney classic "Come On 'a My House" where I explained that I wasn't Italian, but sometime say that I am so I don't have to shave my legs! The evening was hosted and curated by performer/writer Evan Laurence who sang some of his original music and also treated the audience to some improv comedy. The evening took place at Mo Pitkins' House of Satisfaction on the Lower East Side.

NEXT Magazine - Gay Take-Away celeb

I'm featured in the current issue of Next Magazine (Aug. 10, 2007 #15.06 page 46) one of the top weekly guides to NYC Queer nightlife, entertainment and culture. I'm in the Eats dinning section revealing her favorite take-out selection. Pick up a copy! It's a fabulous magazine!

Here is the published text:

Next – GAY TAKE-AWAY – Lady Clover Honey

Next Magazine’s celebs of New York nightlife reveal their favorite take-out joints.

Lady Clover Honey, television's drag-queen journalist, reports on the world's most fab queer events on Under the Pink Carpet, hosts the annual Fresh Fruit Festival, and performs in the monthly Sexahol Review at Mo Pitkin's. She's also made history on news report doc Bright Lights/Out City and as the first Drag Maestro Conductor at Carnegie Hall. So where does the Lady go to sweeten the pot?

"One of my favorite gay take-away places is Rocking Horse Café (182 Eighth Ave, 212-463-9511). After an exhausting video shoot, I kick off my pumps and enjoy some subconsciously Freudian phallic burritos that truly satisfy my hunger. The Grilled Vegetable Burrito ($15.95) comes with avocado, watercress and roasted tomato salsa. When I crave something meatier, I get the marinated natural Hanger Steak Burrito ($16.95) or the Chile Relleno ($16.95) with sautéed wild mushrooms for my queen-sized appetite. To get me in an exotic mood, I order the Coconut Flan with Coconut Tuile ($4.95). One taste and I'm in Acapulco!" N

Under the Pink Carpet screens every other Thursday on Time Warner MCC 34 at 10:30pm. Visit underthepinkcarpet.tv for more info. For details of her her live appearances on Aug 23 and Sept 3 visit ladycloverhoney.com.

Sexahol Review

On Thursday, July 26, I was a performer in a new Cabaret and live performance series called Sexahol Review. The show featured an eclectic mix of performance artists and offered Comedy, Music and Burlesque! Playwright, songwriter and performer Evan Laurence produces and hosts the show with help from David F. Slone. The two of them performed a hilarious Improve Comedy number with audience participation. David also sang his own unique version of a Cole Porter classic set to modern hip hop music with members of the crowd volunteering to act out the characters from the song on stage. The beautiful Alexis Karl belted out some opera arias - hitting the high notes with style! Downtown Burlesque Diva Nasty Canasta treated the crowd to a unique and sexy ensemble where she started out looking like a Disney character and ended up looking - HOT! Singer/songwriter Michael Lynch also did drag and everyone went wild over his one song about the Stonewall rebellion of 1969. I wore a spangled dress that lit up the room like a disco ball and sang some Connie Frances classics and told my jokes about transitioning into Straight Female sexuality. The show took place at the fantastic Performance Art Space, Mo Pitkin's House of Satisfaction on the Lower East Side. We performed in the beautiful cabaret theater with burgundy curtains and high ceilings on the first floor. The audience was very responsive and wonderful. We had a great time and we're grateful that the series got off on a terrific start!

Photos courtesy Jed Ryan

Rainbow Place - Comedy with Puppets

On July 22nd, I was cast along with Tony Sawicki and Stephanie Butler of Under the Pink Carpet in a special staged reading of a play called Rainbow Place, a comedy with puppets and live actors (think Avenue Q) that offers a “slice of life” glimpse at several characters who frequent a neighborhood LGBT bar in Chelsea. The reading was one of the many theatrical presentations at the 2007 Fresh Fruit Festival held at the Cherry Lane Theater.

With a twist that would certainly avoid typecasting, I played a fag hag character/Straight woman named Ann who hangs out in the bar with her Gay friends while her boyfriend is home watching sports. Stephanie Butler played Rita, a Transsexual woman who is delighted with her recent SRS (Sexual Reassignment Surgery). Tony Sawicki played the part of a wisecracking leather man named Scott, who although very macho, is a professional florist.

Other actors in the play included Faith Ballenger, Cookie Pemberton, Hans Von Rittern, Michael Lester, Steve Hauck and Christine Tracy-Garrison as patron bar flies.
Rainbow Place was written by playwright Nick Curto, who is also the President of All Out Arts and CIN (Creative Industries Network). The production additionally featured the creations of professional puppeteers Hal Rainbow, who also co-wrote the script, and William Abbott of the famed Swedish Cottage Puppet Theater located in NYC's Central Park.

Photos: Stephanie Butler, Clover Honey, William Abbot, Hariette puppet, Tony Sawicki; and Clover Honey; Stephanie, Faith Ballenger, Neil, Clover and Tony; Cast on Stage at Cherry Lane Theater.

SWISHy Bingo Games

On Wednesday, July 25, I was the special guest at Will Clark's Porno Bingo, the sexiest and most exciting Bingo games around! The game raise funds for local charities and community organizations. The prizes are the hottest Adult Male erotica packages with theater tickets and various other fun stuff thrown in. The Beneficiary this week was SWISH (Straight Women In Support of Homos). The wonderful and supportive ladies of that organization sometimes jokingly refer to themselves as Fag Hags and Fruit Flies and they're a big and vital part of the Queer Community. I'm very proud that the TV series I work on has a Fag Hag reporter and being someone who transitions into a lady, I can't help but admire those who were born ladies and make a big contribution to our community. Many of my girlfriends from CDI game to the Bingo night to show support. I joked that SWISH would be forming a sub group called SWIST - Straight Women In Support of Trannies. Village Voice columnist Michael Musto made a surprise appearance during a game wearing a T shirt with the printed slogan: I Love Trannies!

The Art of Drag - at Fresh Fruit Fest

On Wednesday, July 11, I curated a special Performance Art showcase exhibiting the special entertainment, portrayal and expression of Drag Queens. The night was called The Art of Drag and was a gala evening of The Fresh Fruit Festival, held at the prestigious and historic Cherry Lane Theater in Manhattan’s Greenwich Village. I evening was complete success with every seat in the house sold! When someone is born Male, the privileged, strong and fearless Gender, and he has a female spirit inside that needs to be expressed, he creates a Drag Queen persona. The results can vary from Comedy to Tragedy, but either way, it is most often great Theater and lots of fun. I created a showing of different kinds of Drag Queen performers with different types of Drag expression with different ways and reasons for doing Drag.

The hosts of the show were Jacqueline Jonee, the elegant, concert pianist and Cabaret Diva along with Millie Shayntwrite, host of Lavender Vaudeville. The two of them as hostesses complemented each other beautifully with Jacqueline being very classy and Millie being very sassy! The first performance was The Church Ladies for Choice, and they were thrilled to be making their off-Broadway debut. They usually perform in the streets at protests and rallies, using Drag to make Political statements for LGBT rights and Women’s Pro Choice rights. After that Maria Casta Diva demonstrated her vocal skills as she sang live Opera arias. Then performance artist/dancer/choreographer Agnes DeGarron, Radical Faerie Legend and original founder of the nun order Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, did a fabulous act combining dance, art and some comedy. The outrageous Zondra Fox performed a shocking piece using sequins and hairspray. Petit Versailles, a downtown art group that uses Drag to invoke nature and Earth Mother spirits in community gardens on the Lower East Side closed the show with a marvelous avante guard dance movement ensemble. They charmed the audience with poetry and synchronized movements like little faeries.

Those who attended the event included Joe Jeffreys (NYU Historical Archives, Drag Video Verte af Lincoln Center), Veronica Vera (Head Mistress of Miss Vera’s Finishing School and author of Cross Dress for Success), Mariette Pathy-Allen (Photographer of Transgender, photo book Transformations), Fernando Espinosa (Photographer, photo book Aphrodisiac), Larry Vrba (Drag Queen / Costume jewelry designer), Madelyn Madalaine (Vice President, Cross Dressers International), Randy Wicker (Randy Wicker Reporting), David Finkelstein (Lake Ivan Performance Group), and others.

Photos Courtesy Fernando Espinosa Chauvin Photography