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

Annie’s Mailbox: Give veterans their day off

Marcy Sugar and Kathy Mitchell Creators Syndicate

Dear Annie: I am a veteran. I served proudly and now have a decent job in the civilian workforce. I appreciate everything that our country does to honor our nation’s veterans and their families, from the parades and ceremonies to the business discounts and free meals.

But I often wonder why veterans are not provided with a “holiday” from work on Veterans Day to attend these ceremonies, have lunch or just spend time with their families. To attend these functions, veterans must apply for vacation time, so many choose not to attend.

If Veterans Day honors this nation’s veterans, why can’t we change the law by giving veterans the day off without penalty? – Answered the Call

Dear Answered: It does seem logical that those being honored would get the day off. Veterans Day is a federal holiday, meaning federal workers either get the day off or are paid for working a holiday. Many nongovernmental businesses also close on Veterans Day, but it is not mandatory. We suggest you talk to your boss about this for next year and see whether some accommodation can be worked out.

Dear Annie: I wanted to respond to “Bewildered in California,” whose father manipulates others into giving him freebies.

I have a friend with similar behaviors. I’ve seen her take cans of soda, cookies, napkins and salt packets and stick them in the large bag she carries. She once took five packets of identical material at conferences.

She’s always talking about getting her money’s worth and manipulates others into getting freebies for her. If they won’t, she claims they don’t care about her. Three years ago, I took her to an event requiring an overnight stay. When I arrived back home, I had hotel towels in my suitcase that I had not put there.

I now avoid getting into situations where I might be embarrassed by her behavior. I’m convinced this is an illness, but she will never seek help. To mention it, even kindly, would only mean she has lost another good friend. – Still Care