After trying to get the main blog organized using the new child theme based on Twenty Eleven, it was time to find a good way to show posts across the network. Network Latest Post is on version 3.0.9 and provides the best method for showing select posts.
Installation is through the /network add plugin feature in WordPress. Next, activate the plugin in for just the site ID 1 blog. Drag the widget to the select area then choose which blogs are to be ignored. It is also possible to select only the blog, tag, or category.
This plugin is available now on the sidebar of Tux Reports Network. If this works then it will be activated on other sites within the network.
The more I use this plugin, the happier I am to have discovered it. The developers deserve a huge thank you!