Teacher wants to avoid pictures

Dear Abby: I’m going to a professional conference, which has the usual presentations and vendors. Every time I go, there’s always a photographer. It’s annoying. When a photographer sneaks up to take photos, it distracts the presenter.

I have been photographed while I was browsing through the vendors. I have never given my permission to have any of them published. The photos appear on state or national organization websites for viewing by association members. What are my rights?

Dear Teacher: You are not the only person who dislikes having their picture taken – particularly without permission. However, if the photographer has been hired by the association sponsoring the event, I don’t think you have any choice about being photographed. Sit toward the back of the audience.

Dear Abby: Three months ago, I went out on three dates with “Kevin.” Then he sent me a text saying he didn’t feel I could offer him the relationship he is looking for, but he wants to remain friends. I agreed, and we’ve gotten together many times since.

I am not physically attracted to him, but I sense he is attracted to me, and it makes me uncomfortable. He has invited me over for “movie and cuddle night,” asked to kiss me and booked a hotel room with only one bed. It’s like I am his placeholder until he finds a real girlfriend. I don’t know how to break things off nicely.

Dear Not Interested: I think you have Kevin pegged correctly. Here’s how to distance yourself “nicely.” Tell him you like him very much. But as a platonic friend only. Explain that kissing, cuddling and sharing a bed are things you do with a boyfriend, and it’s time for both of you to move on. Then do it.