add specials and new product as part of category tabs

Hi:

I'm using ZC v1.3.8a with template overrides. i've added the relavent bug fixes for my site.

i'm trying to simplify the design by avoiding side boxes altogether.

What I'd like to do is:

1. add Specials and What's New in my list of categories tabs
2. display the sub categories as a level 2 list of the category tabs. I just read a post that suggests Paul's CSS dynamic menu. Anyone know if this can be set to display horizontally?
3. Alternatively, I really like the rotating tabbed images used here

:lookaroun This may not be the right place for my next question and if not please indicate where it should be posted. I have tried looking for anything filter related for 3 days now.

I'm using the manufacturing filter drop down (which I've renamed Brands). Here's the link for this example. However, when i click on a Brand option, the page takes me to the default main page. A closer look at the URL indicates that it is missing index.php before ?main_page=index&cPath=6_28&sort=20a&filter_id=12. Which file governs this action? is it a language file?

my appreciation to anyone that can help.