I find the Beer Garden most intriguing. In the last couple weeks, I've always been amazed at how fast just about every topic in here (and even in some threads outside the Beer Garden) goes completely off track, politics are discussed for a few posts (though vague references to politics are often enough), then a flamewar ensues. And the topic of politics isn't even the topic that historically causes the most problems; religion is! And we've shown in several threads that religion can be discussed in a civil, respectful manner. Even when people slip and make a somewhat controversial joke, or even a serious statement, the original poster and those offended come to terms and we move on.
Maybe religion is too touchy of a subject that we aren't willing to take it to the levels of debate that we do with politics. I personally think if we can discuss religion with respect, then politics should be a piece of cake. When I say resepect, I mean without talking about sexual organs and their sizes, sexuality preference, people's wives or significant others, people's assumed or accused age, and what her or she does for a living (or should do for a living). The above list should not be considered all-inclusive nor exhaustive. Sure, following these rules will make for boring posts that I will probably never read (honestly, the only reason why I read any of the politics related threads is to hear the funny, completely-unrelated-to-the-actual-discussion insults thrown back and forth
). But at least the people truly interested in the threads can actually feel productive when reading these particular topics and hopefully enlightened by the honest, civilized discussions. But hey, these flamewars are not without their merits. Never would I have dreamed that AviationWiz and JamieW would be lumped together on the same side. 
If I had my way, we'd go back to discussing (and seeing) all the scantily clad avatars.
At least then I wouldn't feel dirty after having read the thread. 
We now return to your regularly scheduled flamewar.
