So what was behind the split between Karen Feld and the Washington Examiner?

We asked her and the answer is as vague as it is illuminating.

"I've been in this business a long time, and just as I've watched civility in politics disappear, the same thing seems to have happened in journalism--more in some outlets than in others.

"I haven't had a vacation in a year-and-a-half since I started this column to which I've dedicated myself 24/7. I have upcoming travel plans to Asia and then plan to put my energy into a new gig which will be announced in the fall."

Why mention civility? we asked.

"By 'civility' I'm talking about respect and respectfulness, grace, courtesy, and we might add old-fashioned ethics to that as well.

"Over three decades my brand of so-called "gossip" actually chronicles my view of social history and the events and people who make it happen. I've never been a participant in gossip wars."

You mean these wars?