I really like it! Although, a lot of people may think the social thread and the random post of goofiness thread will be forgotten (I would say the rant section too but no one remembered that one, I think), however, I don't think it'll be the case, since the shoutbox has limited backlog, it's not good for long term discussions. The social thread is good to share ideas about us, but they'll stay there, so people can read them back if they want. The same goes for the other ones. The shoutbox is cool to have a shorter and faster way to talk. Kinda like to say hi and get updated quickly. Could be a good place to advertise certain topics that are now being discussed.
But of course, there's always someone that doesn't like it, am I right? I personally really like it!