Doctor Hosts Party, Asks Staff to Bring Food

A doctor who owns a small successful practice has invited his staff and their families to a party at his lake house, but has asked them to bring a dish to share. The staff, who have not received a raise in two years, are having difficulty putting food on their own tables and are unsure how to respond. Advice columnist Amy Dickinson suggests they clarify with the doctor what he is expecting and explain the hardship it creates for them, or approach him as a group.