The "Ring Ping" is what we use for news alerts (for example if pictures of the sets of The Hobbit leaked).
Most of us just hang out in the Hole, depending on work schedules etc. (I visit morning and evening, usually) and keep up this running conversation that goes all over the place in terms of topics.
Anyone popping by with questions or comments about The Books or The Movies, or CSL, or whatever, will be greeted and treated nicely. Spark a level of interest and you'll get a lively discussion.
I don’t suppose now is a good time to bring up the Shoes of Power...