DEAR MISS MANNERS: Just after Thanksgiving each year, my young nieces send out a letter to the extended family that contains their “Letter to Santa,” outlining the things they would like as gifts.

DEAR MISS MANNERS: How does one diplomatically, yet adamantly, state that guests should not bring a dish to supplement your holiday event? I’m frequently asked, “What can I bring?” I always reply, ...

DEAR MISS MANNERS: I have an unusual, “made-up” first name. Nowadays it’s common for kids to have a uniquely spelled name, but I’m in my 60s, so it wasn’t common growing up. The way I’ve managed it is ...