Very true words jseal! Very true! I definitely do not need them doing me in!

Maybe the work culture is different over here then. To me it's just unspeakable that work could bully me into something like this - particularly by displaying the kind of behaviour you're talking about. The person in question deserves to be fired for that kind of victimising behaviour - if everyone continues to jump through hoops for the sake of this completely unprofessional administrator, then nothing will ever change.

I'm all for letting things slide if they're not important (you wouldn't believe some of the crap I've dealt with at work for the sake of being a peacemaker) but to me, this is absolutely unacceptable. I can't stand work telling me what to do in my own private life, especially if I'm threatened with my working life being made difficult, for the sake of some sick individual who's got nothing better to do than mind other people's business. It's outrageous.

Document! Document every detail and file it away while you sharpen your sword. :cool:

I agree with you 100% Lou, but sometimes politics happen when you're not looking, and unfortunately, you don't have a case to argue, there is no case because it didn't happen, if you talk about it, It's you is imagining/creating, this thing that isn't there, and it only gets worse from there... Because if yuo ever confront such a person, none of this is/can/could/would/does happen, (but in fact it can be right there between the lines), and these people are masters of that, doing but not doing... unfortunately sometimes it just happens like it or not. The wrong people sometimes know how to cause problems without it ever happening...

"you just imagined all of that, don't be so paranoid"


Well Said PF I agree


p.s. ... WildIrish ... I know you are, but I'm sure you know how to act when it is called for...

I usually reserve those precious few moments of good behavior for my own job. :p

Lou--I agree that it is unacceptable, however, it is a reality. Until we can get rid of the particular individual that holds the power, we are stuck doing as she wishes. I am not the only single woman in the department that is scrambling to find a date.

GC-She is a master at doing and saying nothing that at the same time ruins a career and/or makes a job Hell. I am oh so happy that I do not possess that skill, but would love to use it just one time on her.

WI--Good behavior and you??? Oxymoron??

I can easily understand the kind of asshole that slithers their way to power, just to enjoy the trauma they inflict on the lives of others who wish nothing more than gainful employment (& maybe a little respect)...meanwhile, follow PF's directive, and be ready to tip the scales against her when the time is right...Kharma has a way of hoisting folks on their own pitard eventually...

I know this is going to be just way out there...but how about finding an escort service? Being in Houston there should be one or two. Hey it worked out in the "Wedding Date" with Debra Messing.

Or if you have a married couple that you are good friends with. Ask her and him if you can borrow him. Strictly business no funny business. Make sure they have a real secure relationship so no fighting would take place.

Or just go on your own.

Not sure what I would do in that situation.

Scotz--Oh I am more than ready to tip the scales on her!! Karma is definitely on its way to her!

Tx-Escort service?? So funny that you said that....my dad suggested that LMAO!!! Though, I do not think he understands what all is involved with that type of service (possibly) LOL. I am at this point just going to go by myself just to piss her off. However, should a date come a long........

I really am so perplexed by this.

What in the world could be the reason for wanting everyone to be hooked up with someone? Is she testing your sexual preferences? Is she anti-gay or something? In your initial post you said he has to look good and own a suit. Does she want her pick of men to "steal"? I just don't get the significance of being in a relationship and how that enhances your work ethics and skills!!!???? And further...I don't get how parading an S/O around at a social event can make for a better workplace!!!??? Does everyone at your workplace just accept this behavior?

Maybe I'm a dumbass but I need this spelled out for me. What's the point??????

Lixy--I do not get it either. :banghead: I also agree that if the guy is less than stellar, that it could hurt me more. I did make it official today that I will NOT be taking a date.......

Oh damn. I'm only two hours away in Beaumont, and I've lived in Texas all my life, and never heard of a work situation where you had to bring a date. Then again, it's been years since I've worked in a professional setting so maybe things are different now?

Of course, I would be a poor choice since I am a complete stranger, and I've never been to a cocktail party so I would have no idea about the protocol for such situations.

Plus, you did stipulate that you needed someone handsome, and well, let's just say witty conversation is my strong point.

Though, I would have no idea why an attractive woman would have any problem finding a date even as a small favor in a city as large as Houston.

I wish I would have known sooner. I could have looked around for you.

Edit: Oh and I recognize the irony in my signature.

You know, I do know a guy who was fired from his job for being gay. Even said so on his pink slip. God Bless the American South!

I just thank the gods I don't have to deal with this at my job. I made the choice to not date anymore, and it's pretty sad that even in 2007 when a person hears that a man is a 28 y/o confirmed bachelor they automatically assume gay.

Tonight is the dinner and I did not go. I get to use the wonderful excuse of heavy rain and thunderstorms! No way am I going to get out with the possibility of flash floods! If I catch Hell, I catch Hell.

I don't blame you. It really was one of those you'd have to be an idiot to drive in this kind of weather.

Though the more I think about your boss's inane requests to bring a handsome man to a cocktail party and threaten you with "bad for your career" if you don't just sounds too creepy.

It's pretty sad when the best case scenario I can think of is maybe this was a "car key" party?

And yeah, booze + co-workers is always a bad combination.