Hooters to Name 'Miss Hooters International 2001'

Rio Suite Hotel and Casino plays host to the 5th Annual Miss Hooters International Swimsuit contest June 29, 2001. Because of the lavish amenities and glamorous setting, Hooters officials could not resist the allure of this location for the contest.

"Las Vegas is known for heavyweight events and we are the champs of the Restaurant industry. When we were searching for a host location for this event, the logical choice was Las Vegas," said Mike McNeil, Hooters of America, Inc. Vice President of Marketing. "The Rio Resort possesses a young, energetic attitude and is the perfect place to bring our franchisees and Hooters Girls."

Hooters of America, Inc., the Atlanta-based operator and franchiser of the Hooters concept, will have over 70 Hooters Girls from around the world compete for the title of "Miss Hooters International 2001" and $100,000 in cash and prizes in the Rio's Samba Theatre. Jim Gibson, a professional pageant announcer, will emcee.

"Like the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders and Playboy Playmates, people recognize the Hooters Girls internationally," McNeil said. "The Hooters Girls are our all-American cheerleaders and they are responsible for a unique niche in the restaurant industry. This contest allows us to recognize and reward the Hooters Girls for their efforts."

Judges for the contest include representatives from The Rio Casino, the Baywatch TV show, Playboy Magazine, Anheuser-Busch and Venus Swimwear. Hooters will name other celebrity judges during the week.

While in Las Vegas, photographers from Hooters Magazine and the Hooters Calendar will use the Rio Resort as a backdrop to shoot Hooters Girl contestants for upcoming publications.

Hooters Restaurants, founded in Clearwater, Florida, is a casual, beach- theme concept that features a menu of chicken wings, sandwiches and seafood in a "delightfully tacky, yet unrefined atmosphere." There are over 280 locations worldwide.