DEAR ABBY: I have read your column for more than 20 years but have never written. However, I have not seen my problem addressed, and I'm hoping you can help me.
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My wife and I enjoy season tickets to the Milwaukee Bucks with three other couples. When I go to the concession stand, I feel the polite thing to do is to ask if anyone else would like anything. Most of the time, the other couples will order a snack or beverage. I always buy them. The problem is they rarely reciprocate. Occasionally, they'll offer, but more often than not they simply do not go to the concession stand or wait until I go.
At times, I actually hold off getting a soda for fear that it will end up being a $30 trip. They are not otherwise what I would call "cheap." We have never had a problem splitting a restaurant bill.
As I'm sure you are aware, the prices at auditoriums and stadiums are quite steep. Any suggestions? Please hurry, or I may go broke through the playoffs. -- GOING FOR BROKE FOR THE BUCKS
DEAR GOING FOR BROKE: It's time to stop jumping through hoops for your friends. The next time you return from the concession stand with an armload of goodies, announce what each of them owes you for the items they requested. To do so is not considered impolite, and it's better than going broke in the bleachers.