Waiters and servers aren't just a one-time "what can I get you" type of crew. They come to your table several times, take those special orders or get the extra stuff you want.

After all, didn't we all hear that tips meant "to insure proper service"? Although this assumes the wrong version of "insure", it should be "ensure". But I digress.

Besides, waiters and servers do not earn minimum wage ... the bulk of their income comes from tips. You know, its the merit-based part of their income. If the service isn't up to par, you only have to tip what you feel is appropriate.

I have to wonder what these people are thinking. After all, they are doing their job.

You go to the ice cream joint and get a single scoop in a dish. Stay with me now ... and it costs more than a half-gallon of ice cream at the red or blue super centers. And you want a tip?!? Puh-leeze.

Stop by for that twice daily latte or other fru-fru coffee (me, just a regular cup o' joe, thank you very much). Total up the cost of those two lattes and it seems they cost as much as a whole bag of coffee. But then they do shout out your name and your order. Yikes.

I'm not against giving tips to those that deserve it. The key word here is deserve. If it's your job to give me that cup of ice cream, or that cup of coffee that I willingly pay for, and you make minimum wage or more, don't insult me with a tip jar.

At least lie to me and tell me it's for your college fund. Or your boy/girl friend's birthday present. Perhaps a needed car repair.

Please, just don't call it a "tip".