Twitter is being embraced as a tool for journalists today, when only a few years ago online media was viewed negatively by many “traditional” journalists. The way information is shared has changed immensely since the beginning of online news services and is being shared at a rapid pace by everyone, not only journalists.

Kyra Kyles, a reporter and columnist for Tribune Redeye and broadcast contributor, says that Twitter inspires the topics she chooses to write about in her column and on her blog.

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   leesy_ @thekylesfiles How useful is Twitter to you as a blogger/ writer? Do you find info here or use it to engage random topics you come up with? 01 May 2010 from web
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   thekylesfiles @leesy_ I’d say a mix. I get story/column ideas and blog topics too. 01 May 2010 from UberTwitter in reply to leesy_

Broadcast journalist Nancy Loo reiterated Kyles thoughts about how to use Twitter as a journalist. Loo added how communicating with others on Twitter lead to news tips, which come in handy for breaking news. Regardless of how information is shared, verification is still necessary and the role of a trained professional will continue to be a valuable asset for the public.

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   leesy_ @NancyLoo Do you use Twitter to find stories and/ or to spread news? 02 May 2010 from web in reply to NancyLoo
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   NancyLoo @leesy_ it’s useful for both. 02 May 2010 from Tweetie in reply to leesy_
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   leesy_ @NancyLoo Is there a story that you found out about on Twitter that the media wouldn’t have been able to pick up otherwise? 02 May 2010 from web in reply to NancyLoo
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   NancyLoo @leesy_ people tweet me story ideas & tips all the time. Searches & lists can provide gr8 insight during breaking news. 02 May 2010 from Tweetie in reply to leesy_
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   leesy_ @NancyLoo How do you verify? Are there false leads being sent your way? 02 May 2010 from web in reply to NancyLoo
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   NancyLoo @leesy_ verify the same as anything else! 02 May 2010 from Tweetie in reply to leesy_

Loo recently became a free agent in the Chicago market as a journalist, but has connected with the public she serves through a strong presence on the web. She maintains her Twitter account on a regular basis and works on various online sites and blogs.