Just a one line request... Couldn't you add the line to search new posts in the 2e_forest template. It would fit good in the navbar, under the search board button.
Pretty please with puppy dog eyes?
PS: If you don't know how to, just send me the code for the navbar template in the 2e_forest style and vB's default, and I'll do it. Fear not my friend, for I have been the administrator of a vB board for some two years.