Secret history of molestation makes dad an ongoing threat

Dear Abby: My best friend growing up was repeatedly raped by her father from around age 13. She told me when we were 17. I reported it, but back then, they couldn’t do anything unless she reported it. She refused in order to protect her mother.

Her mom is gone now, but her dad lives in a retirement home known for supporting children and children’s activities. I worry about him having an opportunity to molest other children. I have thought about anonymously contacting the home and warning them. Should I? — Uncertain In The East Dear Uncertain: That information would carry far more weight if it came from his daughter. Encourage her to discuss what her father did with the director of the retirement home as well as a social worker. Her father should never be alone with a minor child again. If your friend refuses to do this, then yes, you should speak up.

Dear Abby: I love my grandchildren. My problem is, my daughter expects me to baby-sit at the snap of a finger regardless of what I have planned.

I receive no compensation because, in her words, “Grandmothers should not be paid.” Would I be justified in asking for compensation? I live on a fixed income and could use the money. — Bad Grandma Dear Grandma: If there are expenses incurred while you baby-sit your grandchildren, you should be compensated. However, I can see why your request for a salary for doing it would not be well-received. Because you need extra money, consider finding a part-time job. If you do, you will not only ease the strain on your budget, but also make yourself less available.

Dear Abby: My niece is getting married. She requested no children under 16 at the wedding because they’ll be serving alcohol and she is running tight with her guest list.

My stepsister and her mom are upset because their young girls won’t be able to come. My sister said if they can’t go, then she isn’t going, which I think is ridiculous.

They’re trying to force my niece to let them bring the girls. What they don’t understand is how you explain allowing them to come but not other kids. How should this be handled? — No Exceptions In The Midwest

Dear No Exceptions: It should be handled by telling your stepsister and her mother how sorry everyone will be that they can’t attend, and they will be missed. In other words, no exceptions should be made for the intelligent reason you stated in the last lines of your letter to me. Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother,Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069 or visit