Content in boxes plugin / hack suggestion

Hi!

I need a plugin / hack that lets me create content boxes with an image, a few words as description and links in the main page body (like widgets but not in sidebars).

I am creating a bbPress forum where members would post deals and offers as topics. I want to handpick a few topics everyday and showcase them on the homepage.

I am ok with doing the above manually (If automation is possible please let me know).

I need content boxes like below image, this image also has text explaining the requirement –

http://i.imgur.com/0xqPTux.jpg