I generally use New Century Schoolbook or Palintino for my base font, and then add in, say, Jester, Bazzooka or Chaucer for a special headline where required. I don't know what equipment you are using, but most programs allow you to import photos, line art, etc. Also, feel free to make your own with simple shapes. Our Scoutmaster's column is headed by a simple white text on black, black text on white shape graphic, and it's one of he most attractive. One of my favorite issues has a large half snowflake in grey behind a story about a snow campout.
Text wraps around photos or graphics are very effective.
Also, you need to consider what color and size paper you are printing it on. It gives it a very professional look, and it doesn't change the cost much. White is hard on your eyes, and the copy store variety is not white enough to show graphics at good advantage. Try a buff or nuetral tone, or go for something jazzy like neon yellow orange. White space is very important in good design, and is often ignored.