DEAR ABBY: There's an uproar at our office concerning potlucks. Is it acceptable for people who don't contribute to the luncheons to help themselves when the food is served? Some of them even fill a plate to take home! Isn't this inconsiderate and rude? -- POTLUCKS
DEAR POTLUCKS: For someone to knowingly help him- or herself to other people's food without it being offered is not only rude but also presumptuous. I'd say shame on them, but people who do it are shameless.
Perhaps when the announcement of the potluck is issued, it should be clearly stated or written that in order to participate, a person must bring a dish.