DEAR MISS MANNERS: I go by a shortened version of my first name because I feel it suits me better than my full name. Even my parents started using the shortened name when I was a child ...

DEAR MISS MANNERS: I treated a friend to lunch, but when we entered the restaurant, she mentioned that someplace else was better. I was a little taken aback and thought it was just an unconscious ...

DEAR MISS MANNERS: How do I kindly tell my sister that her son’s texts to the family are annoying? He’s 14, and his texts and phone etiquette leave us scratching our heads. He doesn’t ...

Dear Miss Manners: I travel frequently, and I have noticed that airports are reducing the number of seats at the gates. I will arrive at the gate more than an hour before boarding, only to find ...

DEAR MISS MANNERS: I’m a member of several organizations. Frequently I’ve sent updates or comments to the leaders of these groups, who then forward my email to everyone with their reply.

DEAR MISS MANNERS: I hosted two couples for dinner at our home that went very well. The next day, I was experiencing some stomach upset and GI issues. I am not sure if the culprit was the food I ...

DEAR MISS MANNERS: I’m going to be wed soon and plan to have a receiving line. This will be during the cocktail hour between the wedding and reception, while the venue is rearranged. I’m ...

DEAR MISS MANNERS: I grew up in an era when it was customary to enclose a personal check in a greeting card as a gift. This worked for celebrations attended in person, and also when the card was ...

DEAR MISS MANNERS: I will be throwing myself a 60th birthday party next year. The only gift I want is the presence of the family and friends I invite to the party. I intend to include “No gifts ...

Dear Miss Manners: I am the janitor at a truck stop. What is the best way for me (a man) to announce myself when entering the women’s restroom to clean it? I start with calling out ...

DEAR MISS MANNERS: I had invited a group of friends and family to my home for Christmas dinner and a celebration: six adults and two young children. The problem was with one guest, who had been ...