7
I believe your "problem" is, that you have selected news to appear on your front page.
Instead, when selecting blocks, choose the NEWS block. Under preferences, slect "none" for module to appear on top page/home page/font page (not sure about the wording).
The module you select to appear on your home page, will overweigh other blocks, and therefore always be displayd, right at the top of the page.
You are right. DON'T TOUCH THE THEME FOR THIS!!!!