A partner at the law firm of McDermott, Will & Emory has added another case of the danger of the “reply all” button that we have all experienced one time or another. On this occasion, the partner revealed that the firm was cutting back on coffee services in these tough economic times: a move the partner describes as “send[ing] a Message of Desperation.” In the meantime, other major firms are expected to be sending caffeine care packages to their under-caffeinated colleagues at McDermott.
Here is the original message sent on McDermott’s coffeegate:
These are difficult times for our business and legal communities. We, like all law firms, are looking at expenses that can be pared without diminishing the quality of the legal services that we provide to our clients.
Effective immediately, we are suspending our coffee services in the 45th floor lobby. We will, of course, continue to provide coffee and drink carts for client meetings. We will also continue to have the Flavia coffee service available on each of our attorney floors and will provide coffee to our clients in our 44th floor reception area.We are also suspending, effective immediately, our evening food services. Lou and Walt are working on alternatives and will present those alternatives to you in the very near term..
If you have any questions, please call me.
George
The partner responded with a message that reach all of the lawyers, including someone who sent it to Above the Law:
George, I know this will save some dollars but they are small dollars. For the small savings I think this is a mistake. To me it sends a message of desperation.
Regards
The crisis at McDermott has struck a cord across the major law firm ranks. Like the Tsunami relief, lawyers are now contemplating how they can help others as they stare into their lattes and espressos. Many have contemplated the painful image of McDermott lawyers falling asleep in courts or showing up for spontaneous visits at other firms during coffee hours.
As an infamous coffee addict, I am personally disgusted by the decision of soul-crushing management in cutting off this lifeblood of a legal firm
For my McDermott brothers and sisters, I give you “The Coffee Song” to occupy your thoughts as lawyers speed to your office with beans and brew.
For the full story, click here.
Mike Spindal.
Please stop posting here. We are tired of your ignorant blather.
fedaralcodo33093,
Nice non-sequiturs. Is that a rocket in your pocket, or is it that you’re just egotistical, think you’re informative, so going completely off topic provides you with the unrequited stimulation you need from your lack of relationships?
Voters Skeptical of Dems’ Leftward Lurch
March 1, 2009
Inside the Beltway and the media bubble, Barack Obama is still the man of the hour. On CNN, his speeches are even compared to sex. (Someone needs to have a talk with that commentator. I don’t think he’s doing it right.) The Democrats obviously believe that they are in a unique historical moment, of which they can take advantage by moving the country decisively to the left.
There is strong evidence, however, that the American people are not excited about the Dems’ leftward lurch. Last week, President Obama gave his first State of the Union address to an adoring Congress and unveiled his administration’s first budget. What happened? His approval rating declined.
Scott Rasmussen has been tracking Obama’s “approval index,” which is the difference between those who “strongly approve” of his performance and those who “strongly disapprove.” Today the approval index declined to + 8, the lowest level in Obama’s brief tenure in office.
Overall, 58 percent approve of Obama’s performance so far, while 40 percent disapprove. It’s nothing special for a newly-elected President. Jimmy Carter was more popular at this stage of his administration.
What’s happening here is that, while media types swoon over Obama’s way with a teleprompter, voters are focusing on something else–the consequences of higher taxes, unprecedented federal spending and control over the economy, and crushing levels of debt. The more they focus on those things, the less they like them.
Yes, Virginia, we now have a President Doofus:
‘Fuzzy Math’ on War Funding.
Obama Begs Moscow “We will scrap missile-defense for help with Iran”.
Dow drops another 300 points; off 2,500 just since Obama inaugeration, 3,500 since Obama election, and 6,500 since Obama nomination – investor message – WE DON’T TRUST or BELIEVE IN Obama’s fruitcake answer to our problems.
Gyges:
that was great. that Bach guy, what a character!
They should just call Dominos. You can get 3 medium 1 topping pizzas for $5.55 each.
I just got the email today! They can all pitch in and everyone can eat. Or they can brown bag it and bring in their own meals.
They should also be encouraged to get their coffee at the local gas station, as most cups sell for .89 cents. Or better yet, make coffee at home and bring it to work in a large thermos.
Everyone saves money in this way!!
“Will File Suit For Coffee”
Barter is back in the age of collapsing economies!
As great an entertainer as Old Blue Eyes was, true genius has turned it’s attention to the subject: