Republican National Convention delegates, politicians, lobbyists and guests can now check out the local strip clubs prior to making the trip to Florida in August — all from the comfort of their own computers.
Thanks to a new network of cameras installed at strip clubs around Tampa, Fla., called Club Cam Systems, online customers can see dancers disrobe and dance for a small membership fee, and then visit them in person if they like what they see, the Tampa Bay Times reports.
“For the RNC, people need places to go. We’re trying to create the awareness for people who come to Tampa that Tampa has a lot of things to do,” said Russ Bruno, an owner of Club Cam Systems.
According to the Tampa Bay Times, virtual guests to 2001 Odyssey in Tampa can enjoy their own private show via the cameras. Operators of Club Cam Systems are hoping to have cameras installed at several more strip clubs across the city just in time for the convention.
The goal, the company says: make thousands of dollars online while giving the estimated 50,000 GOP visitors a taste of all the adult entertainment Tampa has to offer.
For politicians who don’t want to be seen going into a strip club, they can enjoy their adult entertainment while maintaining a level privacy. Or they can check out the clubs online first to see if they’re a point of interest once landing in the Sunshine State. (RELATED: Charlotte-area lawmakers aim to keep liquor stores open for thirsty DNC attendees)
“People coming down for the RNC can log in online and see what’s going on at the club so they can bring parties to the club during the convention,” Bruno told the Times.
Operators of Club Cam Systems are hoping to use political keywords and hashtags on Facebook and Twitter to draw even more RNC-goers into the clubs.
At 2001 Odyssey, dancers sit on a high-backed velvet couch and talk with customers from around the country. Cameras sit mounted above the dressing room’s entrance so viewers can watch dancers apply makeup and change lingerie. Another camera sits above the main stage, pointed toward the club’s “Make it Rain Machine,” an ATM-like kiosk that allows visitors — both online and in person — to drop as many as $2,000 in dollar bills from the ceiling onto the dancers.
Rainmakers then have their name announced by the DJ, and dancers can be tipped over the Web.
Across the street from 2001 Odyssey, Mons Venus, the club’s longtime rival, is working to have its Club Cam system running by next month.
Those watching from the comfort of their homes pay $19.95 a month to access the site, but can pay an addition $4 a minute for a personal striptease.