New Haven Register (New Haven, CT)

Sisters get greedy after father dies without will

- Jeanne Phillips

Dear Abby: My father died five years ago at 90. For the last 20 years of his life, both my sisters shunned him because they disliked his second wife (who predecease­d him). She had never been anything but kind to us all. They refused to speak to him and, when he was dying, announced that they wouldn’t attend his funeral.

When an aunt informed them that Dad had left over a million dollars in cash and no will, they couldn’t get here fast enough. They falsely accused me of trying to steal from them. I I made certain the money was equally distribute­d, then shut them out of my life. Am I wrong? Disgusted in Denver

Dear Disgusted: You are not wrong. Please accept my sympathy for the loss of your father. In a case like this, it is common sense to protect yourself. Keeping your distance will accomplish it nicely.

Dear Abby: Will you mention the problem of adult bullying in the workplace? The bullies are usually buddy-buddy with supervisor­s and get away with the harassment, which includes name-calling, ridiculing and gossiping, which makes for a very uncomforta­ble work environmen­t. Once Bullied

Dear Bullied: A way to stop it is first to tell the bully that you don’t like it. Then start documentin­g the incidents, including the dates, times and what was done. Take that informatio­n to your

boss or supervisor and ask them to put a stop to it. If that doesn’t help, take your concerns to H.R. If H.R. doesn’t stop what’s going on, take the evidence to the EEOC. What you have described is a hostile work environmen­t, which might be the basis of legal action.

Dear Abby: I recently hosted a bridal shower for my daughter’s soon-to-be sister-in-law. It was a lovely affair. After it was over, my daughter chided me for not giving a gift. I was dumbfounde­d, hurt and more than a little angry. The cost of the shower, not including my time and labor, was well over what I would have spent on a gift.

My daughter is angry with me now because I told her she was being rude and ridiculous. Should I apologize and get the couple an additional gift? I have hosted many such events and always thought the party was a gift. Annoyed in Albuquerqu­e

Dear Annoyed: According to “The Everything Wedding Shower Book,” by Jennifer Jenkins, “It is customary for the hostess to get the bride a gift for the shower, just like everyone else.” However, I am not sure I agree with Jennifer. After having expended the time, effort and expense of planning and executing the shower, I really don’t think an additional gift was necessary.

Write to Dear Abby at P.O. Box 96440, Los Angeles, CA 90069 or dearabby.com

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