Chris,
Not sure if this is possible using the software you use for the forum but is it possible to have an active threads display?
Instead of me trying to explain what I mean by that, take a look at this link. It remembers
the last time each member visited the site and only shows the threads that have had activity since that time. I know the coloured envelopes show this
but you also get all the other stuff to wade through too. It'd be very similar to the new topics doodad on the main page but better IMHO.