Obama, bearing treats, visits firefighters

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TAMPA, Fla., Oct. 25 (UPI) -- President Obama let his sweet tooth be his guide Thursday, going to a Krispy Kreme doughnut shop after landing in Tampa, Fla.

"Good morning everybody, good to see you guys," he said as he entered the doughnut shop addressing about eight patrons.

He told the counter employee he was picking up a pre-order, saying "How much do I owe you guys" as he fished bills out of his pocket.

Aides said the president had pre-ordered three dozen assorted doughnuts, and then ordered another box, saying reporters usually declined Obama's offer of food but sometimes photographers take him up on his offer.

Obama offered to buy a jelly-filled doughnut for two boys accompanied by their father, but they said they preferred powdered doughnuts instead.

Obama dropped the goodies off at Fire Station 14, telling firefighters they do "unbelievable work."

"Thank you for everything you guys do every day," he said.

One firefighter apparently offered to shoot some hoops with the president, who answered he'd consider it "after we're done," adding with a laugh, "I don't want to embarrass you in front of the cameras."