Nice metaphor, Lioness. I guess I've always thought of this place as a virtual pub, with lots of good chat, bonhomie, a few laughs and an occasional fist-fight. There is a ton of collective knowledge, plenty of wit and the odd bore who gets on a hobby horse and won't shut up. It's mostly self-regulating, in that the regulars are quick to sort out anyone who gets too far out of line. Occasionally we have to call in the bouncers. The clientele is always shifting. There are some much-missed old friends but always new faces to inject new life into the place. The bar staff are all volunteers and do it for the camaraderie and out of affection for the joint.
If there's anything more lonesome or drear than a pub with no beer it would be a pub with no punters.
