To view the forums in a traditional "list view", simply click the Forums button located in the main menu bar (at the top for desktop users, at the bottom for mobile device users)
In order to be able to send private messages to other users, you must have a minimum of 10 posts on the site.
Thanks to everyone who put this together and for all the work that went into this contest. I'm so thankful that I am fortunate enough to win with contest. I'll do a review soon as I can