Anyway to archive some threads to keep timely post on top?

You can sort your message board and choose "Active Threads" to see the threads that are currently being updated. And if you choose "Forums" you can see the latest post in each forum.

you can also have "followed" forums, threads, and users.

to follow a thread, click on Follow Thread from the Thread options link at the top of the thread.

to edit watched topics, etc. click on the drop down menu with your name on the upper right part of the forum when you are logged in,
then click on followed lists.
then choose from the three things you can follow, click on either forums, threads, or users you want to watch