Judge: Caesars Atlantic City Discriminated against Men

August 15, 2008

Hiring practices to staff the Toga Bar at Caesars Atlantic City casino hotel get a thumbs down from a judge.

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The judge says Caesars discriminated against male bartenders when they were passed over in favor of young women who were to wear provocative togas.

A trial is scheduled on Sept. 29 to decide whether 19 men are entitled to punitive and compensatory damages.

An attorney representing Caesars tells The Press of Atlantic City the casino disputes the ruling and will aggressively defend itself.

The Toga Bar opened in 2004. Executives had hoped the "goddesses'' would attract a younger clientele. The union representing bartenders complained and four "gods'' were added.

The concept was soon abandoned and Caesars' new owner, Harrah's Entertainment, hires bartenders based on seniority.