From my recollection, the Pub was here pretty much from the beginning. As mentioned, it used to be something you applied for (and was on a menu; anyone could apply). As many might recall, we used to run PhpBB software. It was a long time before I got around to applying (and a bit of an "eh" once in). It was never really intended to be exclusionary, but as some of the staff has pointed out, it's turned out that way.

Fact is, the site was formed on the basis of fair moderation and I think we've largely accomplished that goal. I think everyone on "staff" has said at one time or another that we don't really enjoy being the bad guys -- it's a heck of a lot more fun being one of the gang. And as Fred points out, it is a good place to judge the "pulse" of the members here. "What to do with it" has been under staff discussion for some time off and on, but it's never been pushed to the point of action.

Now that the worm can is open, what do you all think?