I like the Random Thoughts thread... IMO it's a good sampling of who we are, how we think, what kind of conversations we might have around a real campfire...with burning wood
(I'm in CA, NEVER thought I would have to take a propane "campfire" to sit around).
The Random Funny thread is just as cool IMO...have a sense of what others think is amusing before meeting them in person.
While I kind of miss the "old boys club BS" of "The Pub"...I completely agreed with the decision that the staff made to eliminate it, for a number of reasons.
<not sucking up>I'm old, not as fat as I used to be, possibly grumpier...I call 'em the way I see 'em, don't give really give a damn about being politically correct...willing to debate a point over a beer(s) around a campfire without holding a grudge...life is too short. Dave and company run a hell of an operation around here IMO. The adventure travel community has benefited from this forum, the AAV Rendezvous events. etc.
It's easy to start a website (OK, not for me, borderline stupid on 'puters). Not so easy to pull off what Dave and company have pulled off. There is a wealth of good information here (without filtering through the BS on which color winch line is better, etc), real life experiences at the Rendezvous events,, honest evaluations from folks that use their gear, etc.</not sucking up>