Problems seem to be piling up for the Miss America Organization.
The former Atlantic City mainstay has recently taken hits for a revamp that seems to have dulled the aging contest — don’t call it a pageant — and then there are the claims of bullying by its leadership
Now, a lawsuit claims the organization owes more than $98,000 in legal fees to Atlantic City-based lawfirm Fox-Rothchild.
“We are not disputing the total services billed… and I am hoping your firm will consider extending payment of these fees to the second quarter,” MAO Executive Chair — and former Miss America — Gretchen Carlson acknowleged on March 14, according to the suit obtained by BreakingAC.
A pre-action notice was then sent on July 23. Still, the suit claims, no payments have been made, according to the complaint filed Wednesday.
It’s not clear what the bill entailed.
Attorney Peter Sarkos, who filed the civil complaint in Atlantic County Superior Court, said the firm does not comment on litigation.
Mayor Frank Gilliam plans to have Public Works remove the unauthorized banners.
Also this week, banners have started popping up on Atlantic City street signs showing a mock book cover with the embattled Carlson on the “cover.” These banners could have been printed from somewhere like
Super Cheap Signs quite easily.
“So FAKE,” it reads. “Private Bully, Public Liar.”
It includes a red square that says “52% off. No swimsuits. No ratings.”
Banners were seen on Dover and Florida avenues.
Mayor Frank Gilliam said he had not heard about them but would notify Public Works to have them taken down.
The organization will have its answer contained in the answer it files to the suit, spokesman Karl Nilsson told BreakingAC.
