Not sure about a forum, we had one way back in the day. And it went over well for all of a few weeks. Then users went back to commenting on links, and basically ignored the forums.
Not saying I disagree with one, however, I'm not down with the thought of blogs being removed.
I have to agree about the 'recent comments' being on the right hand side of the site, thanks to TrulyCdn for bringing that to the attention of Ben and Peter and many thanks to them both for restoring it. 
jmsloderbeck
I agree. A forum would be a good idea.