You're right Chance, can't pass up a post that says "strip joint!"
Although I've never heard of anyone using this "deposit" system, I can see
their point of view. Unfortunately, in this industry there are a LOT of
unreliable people who don't take work seriously. I can't tell you how many
waitresses I've gone through due to not showing up, leaving early, showing up
intoxicated, or leaving intoxicated (don't ask). This is a pretty wild
business and it sounds like they've had problems with reliable bartenders in
the past. I wouldn't hold it against them. I would take the job, go with it
and prove to them they have nothing to worry about.
GOOD LUCK