Answers:

1) We set everyones to OFF by default for speed. You can re-enable them by going to MyAccount or clicking the Speed option link at the top of the forum and turn them on again. This was a one time event since many users won't know how to turn them off and slower computers or dial ups were getting slow load times

2) When you post in the quick reply box at the botto of the page you must uncheck the "Go back to forum page after posting" on the right if you want to be returned to the thread. This is on by default but will be a user preference. If using the popup replies you always will return to the thread right now. Only the quick reply box has the option to go back to the forum.