Hi, Dave -
Unfortunately, the screen redirect after login is a global setting and affects all registered users.
We originally had no left column in order to maximize the space for the forum posts, but the items there are generally of value to forum viewers.
However, the real answer to your question...when you're in the forums as a Guest (not logged in), at the very top of the screen, just below the green \"TCI Message Board\" header is a link to log in.
Thanks,
Beth