Excuse Me, But "Will You Lick My Swizzle Stick?"

This question has caused quite an uproar at The Weather Channel. For those that do not know, “swizzle sticks” are “small sticks placed in cocktails to hold fruit, or merely stir the drink.” However, in this context, a swizzle stick referred to a male appendage, which was previously referred to in my favorite quote of the week. Bob Stokes and Hillary Andrews were co-anchors on The Weather Channel and quite successfully brought the channel higher ratings. However, behind the scenes, Stokes admired Andrews and sought to be with her. So much so, that she became is object of affection, and his yearning quickly became harassment. According to the lawsuit, he would continuously sabotage her at work, ask about details for her sex life, as well as beg her to “lick his swizzle stick.” Her also leered at her chest and followed her into the women’s dressing room. However, this is not the first time that Stokes has been accused of sexual harassment. According to Andrews’ lawsuit, Andrews’ predecessor was also sexually harassed by Stokes. However, her complaints fell on deaf ears, so she eventually resigned. But this was not going to be Andrews’ fate. Instead, she filed a lawsuit and actually won. During the ordeal, Stokes has been fired from The Weather Channel.

This has raised two questions:

1. Why was Stokes given a second chance?

2. Since when did a swizzle stick refer to a male appendage? Am I really getting that old or is this guy just “creative”?