Issue link: https://www.epageflip.net/i/774231
DILBERT ScottAdams PEARLSBEFORESWINE StephanPastis PICKLES BrianCrane BABYBLUES JerryScott&RickKirkman THEDUPLEX GlennMcCoy ZITS JerryScott&JimBorgman SHERMAN'SLAGOON JimToomey ARGYLESWEATER ScottHilburn BIZARRO DanPiraro DEARAMY»WhereI work, we have several departments, which share a large, public bathroom. My issue is this: Often, I walk into the bathroom to see a colleague brush- ing their teeth in one of these public sinks. I'm guess- ing the most common reason is to prepare for a dentist appoint- ment, but regardless of the reason, I find it really disgusting and thought- less of others. I wash my hands in those sinks, and people think it's OK to spit their food, saliva and germs into a public sink? It turns my stomach, Amy. I understand want- ing clean teeth prior to seeing the dentist, but isn't this poor (and un- sanitary) etiquette? Your thoughts, please. —Disgustedinthe Bathroom DEAR DISGUSTED » Some people brush their teeth after every meal, and not just before going to the dentist. Certainly if your colleagues are headed into meetings, they might feel more confident know- ing their teeth and breath are clean. Let's break down your queasiness: You are washing your hands after using the toilet. Presum- ably, your own hands are affected by germs and (possibly) fecal matter. That's why you are wash- ing them, right? People who choose to brush their teeth in a public toilet are more vulnerable to public germs than you are, be- cause of what (naturally) goes on in public rest- rooms. A 2015 study pre- sented by the American Society for Microbiology showed that 60 percent of toothbrushes used in public restrooms tested positive for fecal contami- nation. They estimated that in public restrooms there is an 80 percent chance that this contami- nation does not originate with the toothbrush's owner, but with someone else. Yikes. So if you are wash- ing your hands using soap and a stream of water, and don't have any contact with the bowl of the sink, then how do these other germs affect you? I understand that it can be gross to look into the sink and see bits of food or toothpaste there, which is why people who are brave — or foolish — enough to brush their teeth in a public restroom should use a paper towel to clean and dry the sink bowl afterward. DEAR AMY » "Upset Aunt" was staying away from meeting her great- nephew because the baby's parents told her their pediatrician didn't want the baby to have contact with other children. If this is the doctor's advice, then Upset shouldn't quest- ion it. — A Reader DEAR READER » "Upset" also needs to respect the parents' judgment. Her reaction was disrespect- ful, and I hope she apolo- gizes to them. Should people brush their teeth in public restrooms? You can contact Amy Dickinson via email: askamy@amydickinson. com and follow her on Twitter @askingamy. Amy Dickinson Ask Amy Sudoku Instructions:Theobjectistoplacethe numbers1to9intheemptysquaresso thateachrow,eachcolumnandeach 3x3boxcontainsthenumberonlyonce. AnswertoPreviousPuzzle CelebrityCipher ByLuisCampos Instructions:CelebrityCiphercryptogramsarecreatedfromquotationsbyfamouspeople, pastandpresent.Eachletterinthecipherstandsforanother. NEACrossword Capricorn(Dec.22-Jan.19) — A sudden change should be looked at carefully, before you agree to comply or take action. Trust your instincts and take your time. Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 19) — Don't overreact to what oth- ers say or do. Follow your heart and make the changes that suit your needs. An opportunity to make a financial move looks promising. Pisces (Feb. 20-March 20) — How you handle other people's affairs and questions will determine what you will be offered in return. Aries (March 21-April 19) — Impulse can land you in a dangerous position. If you want to see things change, go about it the right way. Taurus (April 20-May 20) — You'll feel passionate about your beliefs. Your ability to be articulate and knowledgeable will attract followers. Speak up and take your place as a spokesperson in order to make a difference. Gemini (May 21-June 20) — Explore new avenues, but don't break the bank in order to do so. Taking time out for younger or older relatives will show how you can make a difference. Cancer (June 21-July 22) — An emotional situation at home will bring about an unexpected change to your lifestyle or finances. A unique approach to handling such situations is favored. Love conquers all. Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) — With a little extra effort, you can reach your goal. A short trip or a visit with someone infor- mative or encouraging will give you the boost you need to forge ahead. Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) — Interact with people you can relate to. Make a point to share ideas. The results will be good for you as well as your associates. Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 23) — Emotions will surface, giving rise to confusion and difficulties communicating or getting your point across. Don't force issues. Go about your business and strive to reach personal goals. Scorpio (Oct. 24-Nov. 22) — Take on a challenge that encourages you to strive to be your best. A physical change will turn out better than anticipated. Romance is featured. Sagittarius (Nov. 23-Dec. 21) — Deception and disillusion- ment will be at the helm of a disruptive situation. Keep your dialogue simple, honest and reflective of the facts, and avoid making assumptions. Truth and fair play will be required. Horoscope By Eugenia Last TUESDAY, JAN. 17 | YOURDAILYBREAK | REDBLUFFDAILYNEWS.COM TUESDAY, JANUARY 17, 2017 4 B