Ed,
Certain subjects are okay to discuss. Others are not.
Certain people can do a Chavez and say pretty much anything they want without repercussions. Others cannot.
Certain people can set up games and even outings via the site. Others cannot.
Open mindedness and free flowing discussions belong more in the theoretical realm than in reality. Get over it. This is not just the way it is here, but in most social organizations.
BTW, not that it is that important to me, but how many threads any more are substantially architectural in nature? And how many of these have not been recycled numerous times before?
Even with the football stuff, and I am not a football fan, there is some interesting, entertaining banter. Fortunately, no one is forced to read every thread and reply, or even participate on this site.
BTW, how was Crystal Downs? It is high on my list of must courses to see.