We had a party of 14 at JB Elephant Thai Bistro celebrating a birthday. Even though the host had made a reservation a week in advance and the restaurant was not busy, our table was not ready and we had to wait for about 15 minutes. We asked for separate checks which was honored. The host couple ordered 2 platters of appetizers to be placed on their bill. The Waiter pushed for 3 platters which they then ordered. The waiter continued around the table asking different couples if they would like to order appetizers until the host notified them that he had ordered appetizers for everyone. It was clear that there was not enough help. Our orders came out to the table in twos carried by our one waiter. Naturally with 14 people many had cold food waiting for others to be served. But the worst part was when the bills came. Several people had paid when the host looked a little confused. It turned out that the waiter placed all 20% gratuties for everyone on the host's bill. To make it worse, he did not mention this so others were also paying him his 20% tip. When called over he explained that the computer would not let him divide up the tip. For those who had all ready paid they had to do it all over. Then everyone had to reinbursed the host couple which was very embarrassing for them. The decor, food and the live jazz music was very good but with all that had transpired we felt it put a damper on a fun party. It was very obvious to all of us that the waiter was planning to really make some money that night. Since we don't live in Joplin, we don' have to worry aboout going back there for awhile but I am sure that some of the others, especially in this economy, will go to other restaurants that do have business ethics.