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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Readers irate at ‘male pig’

Kathy Mitchell and Marcy Sugar

Dear Annie: I appreciate the honesty of “Tired of Paying,” the 50-something single man who said women should pay their share on a first date. He said he was looking for a woman who is well-read, can carry on a stimulating conversation and has a great sense of humor. However, any sympathy I had ended when he added, “Unless you are a young, hot supermodel, don’t expect a free lunch.” It’s nice to know everything else is worthless. I’d like to thank him for confirming my worst fears of the dating world – that looks are everything. – Tired of Male Pigs

Dear Tired: We were bombarded with letters from readers, most of whom were spitting nails at this man. Read on for a sampling:

From Boston, Ky.: No wonder this guy is still single after 10 years. He must be expecting more than a “thank you” after his date, and when he doesn’t get it, he expects a refund.

California: Tell me, Annie, what woman is going to date him a second time knowing she wasn’t “hot” enough for him to foot the bill?

Kentucky: Here’s good news for the old tightwad: You don’t need to pay any longer – just stay at home by yourself for the rest of your life. He says he wants to meet someone with a great sense of humor, who’s well-read and a stimulating conversationalist, as long as he doesn’t have to pay for her meal. Believe me, if she’s all that, she doesn’t need him.

Racine, Wis.: I am a successful single woman in my mid-30s and have no trouble getting dates. I always pay for my meal since it seems the responsible thing to do. I usually arrange to meet in a convenient location and go for a walk in a public place. It’s healthy, free and great for conversation. If things go well, the date can be extended to include a meal or coffee.

Santa Cruz, Calif.: Who would go out with a man in his 50s, wealthy and reasonably handsome, who expects his date to pay her share unless she’s a “young, hot supermodel”? Not those who have to pay because they’re not babe enough, and certainly not the young, hot supermodel because she most likely sees him as he is: old and wrinkled. Good luck, dude.

Kathy Mitchell and Marcy Sugar write for Creators Syndicate.