It’s true. Firefighters are brave, sexy men, but the ladies of Blue Martini got a whole new view of this potent combo Wednesday, Nov. 30. The local firemen strutted their stuff Chippendale-style for a good cause, to help raise money for Camp Hopetake, a retreat for kids with burn injuries.
Women all ages made bids for around $100-$200 each for a fully expense-paid date with one of firefighters. Around $1,500 was raised.
On sale at the event and available online: the Nation's Bravest: Firefighters Unite 2012 Calendar — the first ever, national calendar featuring 12 heroes while benefiting 12 separate charities in Charlotte, Chicago, Las Vegas, Minneapolis, New Orleans, New York, Philadelphia, San Antonio, San Francisco, Seattle, St. Louis and Tampa. Visit NationsBravest.com to purchase a calendar for $19.95.
"Mr. Tampa," aka Lt. Jeremy Finney, organized and emceed the event. Finney is a member of Tampa Fire Fighters IAFF Local 754, which supports the Tampa Fire Fighter Charity Fund. The Fund spearheads the Camp Hopetake (pronounced hope-e-tockee) Children's Burn Camp. This free yearly camp offers a weeklong safe haven for children ages 5 through 17 who must cope with the social and emotional scars of living with burn injuries. Local 754, in connection with the Tampa General Burn Foundation, takes 40 children and 20 counselors to various theme parks, attractions, and beaches, providing supportive environments for these young survivors. For more info, visit tampafirefighters.com.
