OMG, I cannot stop sneezing and blowing my nose. It is super-gorgeous outside, so I'm hoping it's allergies.

Also, I wish I could hang out outside, but I have GOT to get crackalacking on my stupid thesis. Bah.

Is "The Manhole" bar still around? (in Boystown.)

Yup. Not to mention CockTails, The Closet, Man's Country, Jackhammer, Manhandler Saloon, Big Chicks, and, rounding it out, The Gay Town Tavern.

Give'em points for subtlety, if nothing else.

Go shrift, go!! I'd talk to whoever seems easier first.

I feel like I should tell them both at the same time, and yet, really don't want to try chivvying them into Big Boss's office this morning.

I'll go smoke, and then try to track down the wily Big Boss, who doesn't seem to be in his office right now.

Thanks guys. (ETA: Jiasi is female.)

David, that's just crazy.

I can't even believe Hec's employers can do that! I always thought you had to have written warnings and counselings and such before you were fired (unless your position was eliminated).

Also, I can't find ita's link for the Hello Kitty's kitty jump drive-- does anyone remember where it was?

I'm guessing California, like New York, is an at-will employment state. As long as they aren't firing you for being black (female, etc. -- in a protected class), they don't have to give a reason at all.

Hec, you worked for HR, right? So even more shocking that your bosses can't handle a termination more gracefully.

I live in NY, but every it seems like it is very hard to get fired from the University. They might have some fear of being sued, henced insano rules, though.

Hec, you might look into HR or other support (but my impression is HR pays best) positions at local Universities or publishing houses. They are generally a lot less firing-happy than, say, law firms, and the whole publishing thing could be a gateway into more satisfying work.

There is often CYA anti-lawsuit stuff, but state law says you can get rid of anyone whenever you want.