The tartan background banner strips (I don't know what a better description is) is a bit busy with the white text on top being tougher to read. The white on the solid navy strips is better, but I really like the lighter blue with the fade used on the buttons.

The text links (ie. Previous Thread | Next Thread) are too light. I think the roll over color would be a better base color with a darker color blue for the roll over.

I agree about the white background being a bit bright. Just don't know what color I would use as I like the contrast.