Dear Abby: After 41 years of loyalty and hard work, all I got was a pink slip

Greetings, Abby

For 41 years, I was a tennis instructor at a private club. Then the pandemic struck. I was furloughed and not asked to return to work. I didn’t receive the customary farewell greetings and thank-yous that former employees did.

As a thank you for my years of service, I have requested a free membership in the following years. The response thus far is no. Is this a legitimate request? Shall I ask again? SERVING FAIRNESS IN ILLINOIS

DEAR SERVING:

You didn t mention how many times you have asked for the membership as a gift for your years of service, but if it has been more than once, stop asking because it isn t going to happen. A furlough is a brief layoff that lasts for a predetermined amount of time. Workers do not receive compensation at that time, but they do keep their jobs and benefits. It could be necessary to see an attorney over the treatment you received if this is the reason you were kicked out of that exclusive club.

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Abigail Van Buren, better known as Jeanne Phillips, is the author of Dear Abby. Her mother, Pauline Phillips, began the company. For more information, visit www.DearAbby.com or send an email to P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.

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For everything you need to know about wedding planning, order How to Have a Lovely Wedding. Send your name and mailing address, plus check or money order for $8 (U.S. funds) to: Dear Abby, Wedding Booklet, P.O. Box 447, Mount Morris, IL 61054-0447. (The price includes shipping and handling.)

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