[JasonB]

Okay, the portal page has various parts to it.

The main part of the page shows the first post of the most recently started threads.

The left hand sidebar has various bits of information, such as how many posts and threads have been made since your last visit, how many PMs you have, upcoming events in the calendar, then a list of threads according to the most recent replies, some forum stats, and finally who's online.

I actually find it quite useful.