Answer to question 1:
In your control panel main configuration window search for the word 'slip' and it will take you to the option to Turn DateSlip on or off. I believe that if you change it from the default, your topics will stay in place by the order by which they are posted.
Sure enough - if you scroll down a bit in
this section of the admin guide you will find the dateslip explanation.
Second Question - Yes, there is a method to deny view rights to various groups:
Creating a Private ForumSo you will just need to make sure that for each forum you set up "Guests" have no access for them.
There you have it <img border="0" title="" alt="[Smile]" src="images/icons/smile.gif" />
Regards,
Brett Harris
Infopop Corporation