Sexy mascot can stay if curves covered

An Ohio zoning board has ordered a busty, life-size mannequin that stands outside a restaurant to be covered up. (AP)

READING, Ohio — A curvaceous, scantily clad mannequin can keep her spot outside a Cincinnati area barbecue joint, but local officials want her to cover up a bit.

The life-size figure stands as a busty beacon outside a restaurant in suburban Reading owned by Kenny Tessel.

He told zoning officials at a hearing Wednesday night that the advertising gimmick has boosted business 40 per cent.

The 5-foot-10 mannequin is on the street wearing a bikini top and tight short-shorts, though Tessel brought her to the hearing draped in a long, sleeveless grey T-shirt.

The board said Tessel may continue to use the figure only if it’s dressed more modestly in front of the restaurant, too.

He plans to appeal.

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Information from: The Cincinnati Enquirer, http://www.enquirer.com