Lawsuit claims KY bar denied access to blacks - WOWK 13 Charleston, Huntington WV News, Weather, Sports

Lawsuit claims KY bar denied access to blacks

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A Kentucky lounge carrying the Maker's Mark name is being sued for denying access to blacks.

The black plaintiff said he was told he could not throw a party at Maker's Mark Bourbon House and Lounge in Louisville because blacks would attend.

His lawsuit said the lounge refused service to blacks on the night of the party and the plaintiff was refused access to the entertainment district that includes the lounge.

Maker's Mark Distillery said the allegations are "extremely serious," and if true, reflect "abhorrent" behavior.

The distillery said it has no ownership or involvement in the lounge. It licenses its name and trademark for the venture.

The suit, filed this week, names Louisville Bourbon LLC doing business as the lounge and Cordish Operating Ventures as defendants.

Calls seeking comment from defendants were not immediately returned.