Here's what you do:
In "inc_header.asp", look for the following (appx line 469):
Above that, add the following:
Now, save the following as "inc_readtopic.asp"
Change the number in red to the number of the topic you want to force users to view.
That's a fast way of getting it done and will only force users to view the topic once instead of constantly redirecting them with every connection to the board.
If you want an admin panel link to enable you to set a topic number without further software modification, I'll have that ready later today.<