In case you didn't check the forums or this link:

chat.newgrounds.com

Yeah the chat is gonna be down for a while, maybe a very long time.

According to Tom Fulp, the chat had security issues and the developer who set up the thing is no longer with the NG Crew.

UPDATE: due to the chat going out I'll be spending time at the Board Game Online website. You can play games with me there.

I'd also like to know which google hangout the chat regulars used to go to, in case anyone wants to invite me there.