the thing with off topics, is I think they are normally they are used for either jokes, or friendly bantering. I think most people who would use them here will find another means for that communication, either another forum, IM, email, g-d forbid someone actually picks up a phone and SPEAKS to another human . . .
My two cents, its not necessary on this type of forum, but those who would normally complain about it will simply not read the off topics . . .