Rick, for the most part I don't think JWN is a good place for BRAND NEW doubting JWs. But I think it's important for them to see that we don't only have to talk about religion. We are a support for each other. We can argue, debate, disagree, and then talk about a different topic and all be friends. I really do liken JWN to a dysfunctional family, but one that loves each other.
I agree that there are the occasional "off color" topics and such, but that is life. When 1000's of people talk, there will be the inevitable off color joke or swear word. If you allow that to bother you, then maybe you are not ready to live in the real world. No one is forced to click on a thread. And if they don't like what is taking place on that thread, then they can feel free to close it. I had to learn that early on. I had my little freak out on JWN and was upset about some things that took place here. But now I see that that was a huge weakness on my part.