DEAR ABBY: I was wondering if you could give me some advice on tipping. I frequent coffee shops in my area as well as when I travel. The baristas usually are younger women. Usually, there will be a tip jar located next to the cash register.
A typical latte costs $4 to $5, and I leave a dollar in the tip jar. I realize that many servers may be distracted if they’re waiting on other customers, but is it normal for them to never acknowledge someone who is giving them a tip? Is the tip just expected?
Again, I realize there could be distractions, and maybe the baristas don’t notice me tipping them, but it seems like the rule rather than the exception. I think it comes across as lousy customer service. How hard is it to say “thank you”? Is this another example of a generation of poorly raised people? — SIPPING & TIPPING IN CONNECTICUT
DEAR S & T: It’s not only good manners but also GOOD BUSINESS to thank clients/patrons — just as it’s considered proper etiquette to thank the person who served you. I hesitate to paint an entire generation with the same brush, but the individuals you are dealing with could benefit from a refresher course in courtesy.
DEAR ABBY: I’m 56, disabled and live with my mom, who is 86. I’m really scared of what’s going to happen to me when she passes. — SCARED IN NEVADA