Suzanne Killian

NIAGARA, WIS. — Throughout our growing up years, our parents preached good manners. We’ve all learned the basics: Say “please” and “thank you,” always hold the door for others to pass first and do not interrupt people when they are speaking. These are just a few of what constitute proper manners in today’s society. But etiquette is constantly evolving. What was once considered proper, or even mandatory behavior, has become laughably outdated — or even inappropriate — over time. I recently found an article online that describes some of these outdated ideas of good manners … enjoy!

Waiting for a formal introduction

In centuries past, it was considered impolite to introduce yourself. Instead, it was proper to wait until a third party — a host, mutual acquaintance, or colleague — made the introduction. This rule was closely followed in Victorian-era Britain, when introductions also adhered to strict social rankings. In social situations, people of a lower rank or social standing were introduced to their superiors, unless a woman was involved; a woman was always introduced to a gentleman, regardless of rank or social standing.

Formal introductions, however, have become a thing of the past thanks to modern communication’s reliance on speed and spontaneity. Today, not only is it perfectly acceptable to introduce yourself to someone, but it’s often “the most practical solution.” It’s efficient, friendly and spares everyone from awkward silence. Saying “hello” isn’t just acceptable nowadays; it’s expected. 

Never toasting with water

Like many toasting errors, this rule is part old-fashioned etiquette and part superstition. Avoiding clinking glasses with only water (instead of alcohol) in your cup was prominent in seafaring communities — sailors feared that toasting with water would lead to drowning. Today, toasting with water is no longer frowned upon.

Indeed, modern etiquette experts say “cheers” to your sparkling water and agree it’s completely acceptable to participate in a toast with whatever is in your hand. The spirit of the toast matters more than what’s in your glass so always join in the toast, regardless of what you’re drinking.

Wearing formal attire on airplanes

Passengers once dressed up when flying commercial airlines. Three-piece suits, dresses, hats, and even high heels were the norm. The 1920s saw the first commercial flights, and passengers were fashionably bundled up in their finest jackets and hats. This attire was primarily for appearance, but also helped combat the chilliness of early jet planes. This fashion-conscious trend continued throughout the ’30s and ’40s. The 1950s were known as the golden age of air travel. Fashion trends continued because plane cabins mirrored swanky dinner clubs with prime rib, lobster and top-shelf alcohol on the menu.

By the 1960s, flying became less glamorous, and passengers preferred more casual clothing. As time went on, suits became a thing of the past unless you were flying on business. Today, travelers favor comfort over fashion, a switch that may be due in part to cramped airline cabins, unpredictable flight delays, and more strenuous security measures.

Flirting discreetly

In the Victorian era, flirting in public was frowned upon and considered a major violation of polite society etiquette. Consequently, young single women had chaperones who followed them in public and who would shoo away any potential ill-mannered suitors. To further mitigate any unwanted behavior or attention, “escort cards” or “acquaintance cards” were used to initiate courtship without any improper behavior. These cards featured brief messages such as “May I. C. U. Home Tonight?” that an interested gentleman would slip into a lady’s hand.

Today, the etiquette for expressing interest in someone has drastically changed. Speaking to someone directly is usually the best course of action. The signs of respectful and successful modern-day flirting include eye contact, smiles, humor, genuine compliments and active listening to show an honest interest.

Handshakes were determined by gender roles

Today, it is common and completely acceptable to stick out your hand for a friendly handshake; we do it with little thought or hesitation. However, for centuries, strict guidelines governed who should initiate a handshake. Traditionally, men were not expected to shake hands with women — rather, they waited for women to extend their hands first.

In today’s Western business culture, the person with the highest perceived status regardless of gender — for example, the CEO of the company — should initiate the handshake first. But outside of business settings and in most social situations, inclusivity and mutual respect now lead the way, so you need not feel confined to gender norms.

Men walking on a woman’s right side

In medieval Europe, it was once considered proper etiquette for men to walk on a woman’s right side so he could use his left arm to properly escort her. This would allow a man’s right hand to be free to easily reach his sword (worn on the left) should a threat arise. This tradition evolved during the 19th century as carriages became readily available to the public and were no longer a luxury reserved for the wealthy. With streets busier and more dangerous than ever before, men were expected to walk on the side nearest the street to protect their female companions from carriages, mud splashes or any impromptu duels requiring a quick sword draw.

As for who walks on what side of the sidewalk today, it generally doesn’t matter. Just as an aside: my husband always walks between me and the street … which I have always found positively charming!

Bringing your own napkin

The old adage “do as the Romans do” doesn’t apply — unless you want to get some peculiar looks at dinner parties. In ancient Rome, dinner guests would bring their own cloth napkins to wipe their hands and faces and package up any leftovers. These napkins were the earliest versions of “doggie bags,” and it was considered impolite (and impractical) to arrive at a dinner party without one.

While this practice no longer exists, its spirit lives on in our modern-day custom of bringing a gift to a dinner party. A gift for the host or hostess is always appropriate unless you are close friends who often dine together. Appropriate gifts include: wine, champagne, flowers and high-quality or unusual snacks.

So, like so many other things throughout history, the concept of good manners has changed with the times. Overall, society has become more relaxed, and individuals — regardless of sex — can take the lead in many situations. While different, what we recognize as good manners is still appreciated … and, according to my husband, includes removing your cap when inside of a restaurant.

Source: Rachel Gresh for History-Interesting Facts

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NURSING HOMES/SENIOR LIVING FACILITIES

Freeman Nursing and Rehabilitation Community

Kingsford

906-774-1530

The center welcomes anyone who would like to entertain residents. Volunteers are also needed to help with crafts and other activities.

The third Tuesday of every month at 2 p.m. has a Memory Cafe – a fun hour to spend with others. For more information, contact Jaime Hathaway at jlhathaway@protonmail.com. The program runs on donations.

Sunday: Catholic Mass on TV, 10 a.m.; relax; coloring, 2 p.m.

Monday: Chair fun, 10 a.m.; trivia, 10:30, a.m. ball toss, 11 a.m.; card club, 1:30 p.m.

Tuesday: Nails/room visits, 10 a.m.; live action on YouTube, 11 a.m.; bingo, 2 p.m.

Wednesday: Bible study, 10 a.m.; coffee talk, 10:30 a.m.; dining room crafts, 1:30 p.m.

Thursday: Uno, 10 a.m.; room crafts, 1:30 p.m.; bunny visits, 2 p.m.

Friday: Sing-along, 10 a.m.; trivia, 10:30 a.m.; Golden K bingo, 2 p.m.

Saturday: Word search, 1 p.m.; family time, 2 p.m.; “Weakest Link” on PBS, 7 p.m.

Iron County Medical Care Facility

Crystal Falls

906-874-1501

Sunday: Room visits, 8:30 a.m.; Scattegories, 9:30 a.m.; chair exercise, 10:45 a.m.; room visits, 12:30 p.m.; bingorama, 2 p.m.

Monday: Rodeo crafts, 9:30 a.m.; exercise, 10:45 a.m.; room visits, 1 p.m.; bingo, 2 p.m.; Sunshine Club, 2:30 p.m.; bonfire, 5:30 p.m.

Tuesday: Just friends, 9:00 a.m.; book club, 10 a.m.; travel film, 1:30 p.m.; garden club, 2 p.m.; western movie, 6 p.m.

Wednesday: Western Days, dress cowboy; cowboy breakfast, 8:15 a.m.; “Animal Kingdom,” 10 a.m.; exercise, 10:45 a.m.; Christ United, 2 p.m.; current events, 2:30 p.m.; night bingo, 6:15 p.m.

Thursday: Western Days, dress cowboy; puzzler, 9:30; bowling, 10 a.m.; Bible study, 1 p.m.; wildlife film, 1:30; United Lutheran, 2 p.m.; happy hour with music, 2 p.m.

Friday: Western Days, dress cowboy; crafts with Bea, 9:30 a.m.; exercise, 10:45 a.m.; rodeo roundup picnic, 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.; western movie, 6 p.m.

Saturday: ICMCF word search/rodeo parade, 8:30 a.m.; room visits, 12:30 a.m.; social hour, 2 p.m.; western movie, 6 p.m. 

Optalis Healthcare

Kingsford

906-774-4805

Sunday: Sunday devotional, 9:30 a.m.; room visits, 11 a.m.; movie or games. 1 p.m.

Monday: Room visits, 8 a.m.; coffee time, 9:30; world chocolate day, 10 a.m.; room visits, 1 p.m.; bingo, 2 p.m.; movie, 5:30 p.m.

Tuesday: Coffee time, 9:30 a.m.; National Raspberry Day, 10 a.m.; room visits, 11 a.m.; National Freezer Pop Day social, 2 p.m. 

Wednesday: Room visits, 8 a.m.; Hope Church, 9:30 a.m.; room visits, 11 a.m.; music by Bob Larson, 1:30 p.m.; manicures, 5:30 p.m.

Thursday: Room visits, 8 a.m.; coffee time, 9:30 a.m.; shark week, 10 a.m.; room visits, 11 a.m.; Golden K bingo, 2 p.m.

Friday: Room visits, 8 a.m.; coffee time, 9:30 a.m.; shark week, 10 a.m.; room visits, 11 a.m.; July birthday party, 2 p.m.

Saturday: Manicures, 9:30 a.m.; room visits, 11 a.m.; craft or games, 1 p.m.

Maryhill Manor Nursing Home

Niagara, Wis.

715-251-3172

Families are allowed to attend activities and are encouraged to join in.

Sunday: Coffee and spelling bee, 10 a.m.; delivery of communion, 12:30 p.m.; prize bingo, 1:45 p.m.; church service, 2:30 p.m.; game night, 5:30 p.m.

Monday: Rosary/communion service, 9 a.m.; pamper and polish, 10 a.m.; courtyard cabana, chocolate milkshake, 2 p.m.; music with Bob Larson, 2 p.m.

Tuesday: Rosary/communion service, 9 a.m.; catch a phrase, 10 a.m.; picnic by the river, 11 a.m.

Wednesday: Rosary/communion service, 9 a.m.; hangman, 10 a.m.; jokereno, 2 p.m.

Thursday: Rosary, 9 a.m.; Catholic Mass, 9:30 a.m.; board games, 10 a.m.; pina colada day, 2 p.m.

Friday: The Breakfast Club, 7 a.m.; Hedbanz, 10 a.m.; happy hour with Ray and Mindy, 2 p.m.; Chaplet of Divine Mercy, 3 p.m.

Saturday: Uno, 10 a.m.; courtyard cabana, watermelon, 2 p.m.

Northshore Healthcare

Florence, Wis.

715-528-4833

No information was available.

Victorian Pines

Iron Mountain

906-774-5158

Sunday: Juice time, 10 a.m.; Bible study, 1:30 p.m.

Monday: Juice time, 10 a.m.; exercise, 11 a.m.; bingo and refreshments, 1:30 p.m.

Tuesday: Juice time, 10 a.m.; exercise, 11 a.m.; trivia and refreshments, 1:30 p.m.

Wednesday: Juice time, 10 a.m.; exercise, 11 a.m.; bingo and refreshments, 1:30 p.m.

Thursday: Juice time, 10 a.m.; exercise, 11 a.m.; refreshments, 1:30 p.m.

Friday: Juice time, 10 a.m.; exercise, 11 a.m.; refreshments, 1:30 p.m.

Saturday: Juice time, 10 a.m.

Pinecrest Medical

Care Facility

Powers

906-497-5244

Sunday: Morning visits and reality orientation; Bunco, 10 a.m.; trivia, 11:15 a.m.; church services, 1:30 p.m.; Sunday funday, 2:30 p.m.; coloring pages, daily chronicle.

Monday: Morning visits and reality orientation; open room, 9:30 a.m.; cranium crunch, 11 a.m.; manicure Monday, 1:45 p.m.; Bible studies, 3 p.m.; book club, 4 p.m.; movie; 6 p.m.; daily chronicles.

Tuesday: Morning visits and reality orientation; open room, 9:30 a.m.; juice hour, 11 a.m.; who-what- where/bingo, 2 p.m.; cribbage, 4 p.m.; daily chronicles.

Wednesday: Morning visits and reality orientation; open room, 9:30 a.m.; Resident Council and food talk with Lacy, 10:45 a.m.; what’s in the bag? 11 a.m.; crafts. Wednesday, 1:45 p.m.; kings n’ corner, 4 pm; daily chronicles.

Thursday: Morning visits and reality orientation; 10:30 a.m.; bingo/trivia; lunch outing; Kerplunk, 2 p.m.; table talk Thursday; 4 p.m.; daily chronicles.

Friday: Morning visits and reality orientation; Catholic Mass,10:30 a.m.; pondering prompts, 11 a.m.; karaoke, 2 p.m.; book club, 4 p.m.; game night, 6 p.m.; daily chronicles.

Saturday:  Morning visits and reality orientation; exercise group.10 a.m.; Bible studies, 11 a.m.; juice hour, 11 a.m.; bingo 1:45 p.m.; one-to-one visits, 3 pm; daily chronicles; activity packet.

SENIOR CENTERS

Amasa Center

906-822-7284

Menu for the week —

Tuesday: Pork and broccoli stir fry, fried rice, Oriental vegetables.

Wednesday: Liver or substitute, roasted garlic potatoes, biscuit, pudding.

Thursday: Chicken and wild rice soup, biscuit with butter, salad, cookies.

Breen Center

Kingsford

906-774-5110

Dine-in eating Monday through Thursday at noon, salad bar at 11:30 a.m. Carryout meals are available. Soup and salad bar are also available. Friday and night meals are on hold indefinitely. Menu for the week —

Monday: Pancakes, sausage, hash browns, fresh pears, yogurt.

Tuesday: Meatloaf, mashed potatoes and gravy, candied carrots, biscuit.

Wednesday: Liver or substitute, roasted garlic potatoes, biscuit, pudding.

Thursday: Chicken and wild rice soup, biscuit with butter, salad bar, cookies.

Crystal Falls Center

Head Cook: Elizabeth Peryam

Assistant Cooks: Debbie Bigalke and Shannon Stapleton

906-875-6709

The center is serving meals for dine-in or takeout — call the center by 1 p.m. to make reservations or place an order. All food purchased from local vendors. All dinners include warm vegetables, salad bar, soup, homemade desserts, coffee, tea or milk. Salad bar begins at 4:30 p.m. and dinner is served at 5 p.m. Pickup for takeout meals is 4 p.m. — call ahead and leave a message with a phone number. Deliveries made to homebound citizens only. Menu for the week —

Monday: Chili mac, homemade cornbread.

Tuesday: Scalloped potatoes, ham.

Wednesday: Lasagna, garlic bread.

Home-delivered meals (prepared by DICSA — independent from above menu) —

Monday: Pancakes, sausage, hash browns, fresh pears, yogurt.

Tuesday: Pork and broccoli stir fry, fried rice, Oriental vegetables.

Wednesday: Liver or substitute, roasted garlic potatoes, biscuit, pudding.

Thursday: Chicken and wild rice soup, biscuit with butter, salad, cookies.

Dickinson-Iron Community Services Agency

DICSA

Iron Mountain

906-774-2256, ext. 230 or 235

This is a Meals on Wheels program only. Home-delivered meals only — call to make arrangements. Menu for the week —

Monday: Pancakes, sausage, hash browns, fresh pears, yogurt.

Tuesday: Pork and broccoli stir fry, fried rice, Oriental vegetables.

Wednesday: Liver or substitute, roasted garlic potatoes, biscuit, pudding.

Thursday: Chicken and wild rice soup, biscuit with butter, salad, cookies.

Friday: Pulled pork sandwich, potato wedges, cole slaw.

Note: All meals include a choice of skim milk, juice or no beverage.

For more information, call Christine McMahon at 906-774-2256.

Crystal Lake Center

Iron Mountain

906-828-1776

Schedule for the week:

Monday: Les Artistes art club, noon to 3 p.m.; woodcarvers, starting at 9 a.m.

Tuesday: Cards — Pinochle and cribbage, noon to 4 p.m.; Happy Quilters, noon to 3 p.m.

Wednesday: Bingo, 1 to 3 p.m.; cards cost 25 cents with 10 games played.

Thursday: Spinning Spools quilting, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.; board games, 1 to 3 p.m.

Friday: Cards — Smear, noon to 4 p.m.; chess, noon.

Felch Center

906-246-3559

Head cook: Joan Wickman 906-246-3559

Program president: Lisa Casey 906-282-7899.

Salad bar opens at 11 a.m., with the meal at 11:30 a.m. and dessert to follow. Evening meal is served every third Wednesday of the month, with sponsored activities. Takeout meals are available. Delivery offered to homebound residents within Felch, West Branch and Breen townships.

Menu for the week —

Monday: Hamburger stew with biscuits.

Tuesday: Barbecue pulled pork sandwich, sweet potato fries, cole slaw.

Wednesday: Smothered chicken breast with mushrooms and onions, baked potato.

Aging and Disability Resource Center

Florence County, Wis.

715-528-4890

Menu for the week —

Monday: Sloppy Joes, home fries, pickled beets, fruit.

Tuesday: Brunch — scrambled eggs, sausage or bacon, hash browns, pancake bites, tomato juice, fruit.

Wednesday: Hot turkey sandwich, mashed sweet potatoes, green bean medley, fruit, birthday cake.

Thursday: Brat on a bun, sauerkraut, baked beans, broccoli slaw, fruit pie with ice cream.

Friday: Enchilada bake with lettuce, olives, onion and salsa; refried beans; fruit.

Note: All meals served with whole grain bread, butter and milk.

Aurora-Hillcrest Dining Center

Serving at 11:30 a.m. Monday through Friday. For reservations, call 715-589-4491.

Florence Community Center

Serving at 11:30 a.m. Monday through Thursday. For reservations, call 715-528-4261.

Fence Town Hall

Serving at noon Wednesday only. For reservations, call 715-589-4491.

Tipler Town Hall

Serving at noon on second Thursday only. For reservations, call 715-528-4261.

Hermansville Center

Coordinator: Barb Peters

906-498-7735

Center is open 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. Meals are served through the Menominee-Delta-Schoolcraft Community Action Agency in Escanaba. Meals-On-Wheels program is available for those who are homebound.

Monday: Swiss steak, brown rice, green beans, peas, fruit.

Tuesday: Turkey gravy over mashed potatoes, diced beets, diced peaches, whole wheat bread.

Wednesday: Baked ham, scalloped potatoes, Scandinavian vegetables, tropical fruit, whole wheat bread.

Thursday: Cobb salad with turkey, pasta salad, fruited Jell-O, whole wheat breadstick.

Friday: Breaded pollack fish filet, cheese slice, whole wheat bun, root vegetable blend, broccoli, fresh fruit.

Iron River Center

906-265-6134

Salad bar opens at 11 a.m., with the meal served at 11:30 a.m. No night meals are available. Meals can be prepared for carryout.

Menu for the week —

Monday: Pancakes, sausage, hash browns, fresh pears, yogurt.

Tuesday: Pork and broccoli stir fry, fried rice, Oriental vegetables.

Wednesday: Liver or substitute, roasted garlic potatoes, biscuit, pudding.

Thursday: Chicken and wild rice soup, biscuit with butter, salad, cookies.

All meals are served with choice of skim milk or juice and fruit.

Niagara Senior Center/Cafe

715-251-1603

Dinner is served at noon Monday through Thursday. Reservations are required one day in advance. Suggested donation for the meal is $5 for those older than 60 and $11 for 60 and younger. Bingo is played on most Wednesdays. Transportation to the meal site is available.

Tuesday: Swedish meatballs, noodles, carrots, side salad, peaches.

Wednesday: Pizza Party! Pizza, chicken wings, garden salad, fresh fruit, assorted snacks.

Thursday: Chicken breast, mashed potatoes, broccoli, wheat bread, fruit cocktail.

Norway Center

Director: Alicia Rochon

906-563-8716

Dine-in eating begins at 11:15 a.m. Takeout meals are available for pick-up from 11 to 11:30 a.m. Those attending should let staff know in advance if planning to dine in or picking up the meal.

No information provided.

Center activity schedule:

Mondays and Thursdays — Exercise at 10 a.m. and card bingo after the meal.

Monday through Thursday — Card game 101 from noon to 3 p.m. Call Joe at 906-563-5587 for information.

Tuesdays — Quilting and sewing.

Wednesdays — Ceramics and crocheting.

Last Monday of each month — Book club at 9 a.m.

Sagola Center

906-542-3273

Dine-in meals served. Salad bar opens at 11 a.m. and meal is served at 11:30 a.m. Carryout meals also available.

Tuesday: Chicken and broccoli stir fry, fried rice, egg roll.

Wednesday: Brat on a bun, roasted garlic potatoes, biscuit, pudding.

Thursday: Tomato soup, grilled cheese sandwich, tropical fruit salad, cookies.

Home-delivered meals –

Monday: Philly cheese sandwich with ground beef, macaroni and cheese, corn.

Tuesday: Smothered pork chop, mashed potatoes and gravy, candied carrots, brownies.

Wednesday: Garlic linguine with fish, green beans, dinner roll.