WordPress Layout and Modification

I am experimenting with a desgn for a new website/blog...I already have a template selected that I am testing...I just need a little help with the layout and a modification to the top half of the blog where I can insert links to current news stories and have them display like "The Dudge Report" does...also need to add a few items in a sidebar like "Archives" and "Other Sites"... also need to add an image to the Header I don't think this will take long and should be simple if you are a WordPress expert.... ## Deliverables 1) Complete and fully-functional working program(s) in executable form as well as complete source code of all work done. 2) Deliverables must be in ready-to-run condition, as follows (depending on the nature of the deliverables): a) For web sites or other server-side deliverables intended to only ever exist in one place in the Buyer's environment--Deliverables must be installed by the Seller in ready-to-run condition in the Buyer's environment. b) For all others including desktop software or software the buyer intends to distribute: A software installation package that will install the software in ready-to-run condition on the platform(s) specified in this bid request. 3) All deliverables will be considered "work made for hire" under U.S. Copyright law. Buyer will receive exclusive and complete copyrights to all work purchased. (No GPL, GNU, 3rd party components, etc. unless all copyright ramifications are explained AND AGREED TO by the buyer on the site per the coder's Seller Legal Agreement). ## Platform WordPress