First time user (total graphic noob) here too.
Try using gimp. Open the main pic – the one you've posted and import any "news" pic you want as layer (open as layer).
Scale the "news pic" appropriately.
On right hand side, make sure the main pic is listed above the "news pic" (so the background covers the "news pic" except in the transparent part.
Add News text lines.
Took me 30 mins or so … but it'll get better, I'm sure. Good Luck!