I agree with Quim Gil's replies on thiss. I see many positive benefits to the forum websiote that uses Discourse. By the way, I have been editing Wikipedia for over fifteen years.
By the way I am mentioning my number of years, only to note my own connection with the community; longevity of editng certailnly does not make my opinion any more or less important than anyone else's opinion here; I'm saying that based on my own direct personal experience, since I have often learned a lot from editors who are more knowledgable than me. I just wanted to note that as one tangential thought and as a genral observation.
Anyway, I appreciate all the insights and input offered in this discussion. thanks!
Sm8900