Really expected more people here to engage in a dialog; but it mostly just like everywhere else. Post after post and little to no interaction. I have seen it get steadily worse and worse over the years with the advent of "Social Media". And yes I know there are government trolls, intel officers, sockpuppets abound all over everywhere. It seems that the prime reason is that everyone is afraid; too cowardly less they find conversation puts them at risk of betrayal or some other potential penalty.
It's the SOB (same old bullshit)day in and day out. The advantages of meeting in your local pub are: A small local known gathering; actions are less likely to get out of control; not subject to mob influence; not open to influence by outsiders.