Top 5 Sources

When it comes to staying up to date with the latest news and information, I find myself relying on a mix of outlets. My top five most-used news sources offer a well-rounded approach to staying informed:

5. NBC 

For national and international news, I trust NBC. I like how they offer a good balance of breaking news, political coverage, and feature stories. NBC is a reliable source for when I want more detailed reporting or in-depth analysis on larger topics. Their evening news broadcasts are a staple for catching up on the day’s biggest stories, while their website and mobile app make it easy to get headlines on the go. Although they may have a slight political lean, NBC still provides reliable and comprehensive news coverage.

4. ESPN

As a big sports fan, ESPN is where I turn for all things related to athletics. Whether it's keeping up with the latest scores, player trades, or game analysis, ESPN covers everything I need to stay informed about my favorite teams and sports. Their coverage of major sporting events, like the NFL and MLB seasons, is unmatched, and I appreciate their expert commentary on a wide range of sports. The 24/7 nature of ESPN ensures I never miss out on important updates, especially during busy seasons like playoffs or championships.

3. News 12 Long Island

For my home local news, I rely on News 12 Long Island, a regional news network that provides comprehensive coverage of Long Island events and issues. Whether it's weather updates, local politics, or traffic reports, this station helps me stay connected with what’s happening in my community. Local news is often overlooked, but it’s essential for understanding the events that directly affect me. News 12 is also a trusted source for any breaking stories that may have a broader impact beyond Long Island.

2. Word of Mouth (Family and Friends)

I often learn about significant events through conversations with family and friends. This "word of mouth" source of news is especially important because it comes with personal insights and opinions, which can shape how I think about certain topics. Sometimes I’ll hear about a breaking story from a phone call or group chat before I even get the chance to see it on social media. Whether it’s a major political event, sports news, or something local happening, these conversations with people I trust provide an authentic, human perspective on the news.

1. Instagram

Instagram is my go-to platform for quick news updates. While it’s primarily known as a social media platform for photos and videos, I follow a variety of news accounts, influencers, and even public figures who regularly post about current events. What I like most about Instagram is the visual aspect. It’s easy to scroll through stories or posts to get a sense of what’s trending without having to read long articles. The platform’s quick-hit content is easy to consume throughout the day, whether it's breaking news from a major outlet or commentary from people I follow. Of course, I’m mindful to verify any serious news before fully believing it due to the quick spread of misinformation, but Instagram is a great starting point for discovering what’s happening.

Conclusion

My mix of news sources keeps me connected to a broad range of information, from local happenings to national sports and global events. Instagram and word of mouth provide quick, immediate updates, while News 12, ESPN, and NBC offer more comprehensive coverage of the stories that matter most. This mix helps me to stay well-rounded in how I consume news and stay informed, but I now realize that I could and should view more sources (including some of the smaller blogs and stations) to get more perspectives.