I think so too, TGIRecovered. I think the comments about Karen getting fired were vicious rumors by an ex-disgruntled employee. It really is too bad because it has probably flooded the resturant's email box with lots of unhappy mail.
I actually think (although I don't know) the restuarant is probably enjoying Karen's success to some extent and taking advantage of the additional business. If I lived in the area, I would visit, eat there and leave Karen a big tip....
I always try to remember that in most cases, the people involved (bosses, co-workers, friends) are people just like us and try to give them the benefit of the doubt. I know there are bad guys too, but generally they have been busted and that's why we are talking about the case.
Salem