1) For kernel modules, you can blacklist them by adding a file in /etc/modprobe.d (any filename - all existing files in here will be read - I use my.blacklist), containing something like this (the example stops the pcspkr module from loading):
2) Cups is a mystery to me. I used the KDE printer management from control panel, and it worked OK for a local printer, I didn't try anything more sophisticated on my current machine. I did have an older machine running Ubuntu and working as a print server using CUPS to share the printer. I seem to recall having to edit a file somewhere in /etc/cups to make it broadcast the printer to the LAN, and then do the same on the client to make it see the printer... sorry I can't be more specific.
3) WFM with 1680x1050 out of the box. Check /var/log/Xorg.0.log for errors (grep for EE) and warnings (grep for WW). Maybe post your xorg.conf?
4) Bluefish is in the universe repository. In synaptic go to Settings [menu] -> Repositories, and enable the Universe repo, then reload package info (button on the main window, and search again.