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Stay healthy while working out

By Annie Lane - Dear Annie | Aug 14, 2020

Annie Lane

Dear Annie: Our local gym opened back up recently. Only half the machines are in use, to encourage social distancing, and only half the lockers and bathroom stalls are available. We’re supposed to all wear masks, but of course, sometimes masks come off during exercise when people are breathing hard or jostling around. I understand that that happens. What bothers me is that there is one guy who never wipes down the equipment when he’s done using it. I see him almost every time I’m at the gym, and it really ticks me off. With everything that is going on, it just seems especially ignorant or rude. I’ve given him pointed looks but that’s about it. Would I be out of line saying something to him? — Gym Rat

Dear Gym Rat: Who could take issue with a friendly reminder like “Don’t forget to wipe down the machines”? That said, now, as before the pandemic, it’s always best to assume the person before you forgot to sanitize the equipment. Give everything a thorough wipe down with a disinfectant that has been proven to kill the coronavirus germs, such as Clorox Disinfecting Wipes, Lysol Brand All-Purpose Cleaner or hydrogen peroxide. (Find a full list at epa.gov/coronavirus.)

You should also check with management: They should have employees frequently passing through the facility and disinfecting all equipment as well as issuing reminders over the intercom to encourage patrons to do the same. A germy gym is no place to get healthy.

Dear Annie: In this trying time — or anytime — could you please remind all parents not to let their children snub, belittle and malign substitute teachers. I had 34 years of teaching experience when I substituted. Each time I substituted, I had children under age 8, who would: not stand upon request, not put books, crayons away upon request and not pick up a dropped pencil or jacket upon request. Don’t parents teach children we are taking their place as adults responsible for their care? Don’t parents know we all have college degrees and are trained to teach? Some like me have specialty certifications and get called in for that reason alone.

Also, it would be wonderful if teachers left a weekly lesson plan book in the desk by Friday night in the event of illness or tragedy over the weekend. — Besieged Substitute

Dear Besieged: I don’t know why having a substitute teacher that brings out the worst even in the best-behaved classes, but it does. I’m grateful for substitute teachers who keep showing up for our children in spite of this treatment. We need you!

Dear Annie: I read the letter from “Tipped Off” about whether or not you should tip for a massage or dermabrasion when it is done in a doctor’s office with a smirk on my face. I am a retired massage therapist, and I had my own private practice. I did accept tips but did not expect them. I believe when the service is done in a private practice or in a spa, tipping is acceptable. But if done in a doctor’s office, no tipping should be done. Generally speaking, those who perform those services in a doctor’s office are paid more, and some even have benefits. Additionally, the services are likely covered by insurance if done in a doctor’s office. — Jeanie M., Office Specialist

Dear Jeanie: I heard this sentiment from several massage therapists and doctors’ office workers following that letter. As always, I appreciate readers’ expertise.

“Ask Me Anything: A Year of Advice From Dear Annie” is out now! Annie Lane’s debut book — featuring favorite columns on love, friendship, family and etiquette — is available as a paperback and e-book. Visit http://www.creatorspublishing.com for more information. Send your questions for Annie Lane to dearannie@creators.com.

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