The Take Over - Gay Power

So over the gay scene, 3 pals start their own.
It started off as three friends, tired of the gay bar scene, wanting a little more to do on a Friday night.

Dan Mauney, Rodney Tucker and Rodney Hines craved visiting a more upscale location like the straight bars in uptown. Yet they didn't want to deal with any strange looks.

So, figuring there is comfort in numbers, they decided the gay community should "Take Over" a ritzy downtown bar.

The idea has since turned into an almost weekly event that draws crowds into the hundreds, gay and straight, spawned several copycat groups, and has the city's most popular restaurants lining up to be the next destination.

"It's just wonderful to be out and be visible," said Connie Vetter, 42, a local lawyer who has attended about six events.

Last Friday, "Take Over Friday" celebrated its second anniversary at The Forum nightclub on College Street. About 300 people showed up to celebrate and see Drew Hughes, an annuities broker, perform as the group's heroine, Wonder Woman.

Throughout Take Over's existence, organizers have maintained a few simple rules: No fundraising. No politics. No agenda.

"We don't have you show up and then take up your money for a cause," said Dan Mauney, 36, owner of a women's shoe store in Dilworth.

More than 50 bars and restaurants have participated, including Therapy, Town, and Bar 10 at the Westin. Many now call the organizers requesting to be "Taken Over." (more)