Michigan server who got $10,000 tip says she was fired in ensuing dispute

Agree. That is why i struggle, at times, when the food was well beyond my expectation.

I would like to show my appreciation to the cooks too.

Totally get that. I've sent compliments to the chef, asked to speak to a manager to report just how great the dish was prepared, and on rare occasions asked for and got the opportunity to speak to the chef. I've never tipped though. I honestly didn't know it was a thing I should be doing.