Objectivity

Turlock City News operates in the public interest and is editorially independent in its reporting. Since our founding in 2005, Turlock City News has espoused the values of ethical journalism, to ensure the free exchange of information that is accurate, fair and thorough. 

Transparency

Transparency is a crucial element of ethical and objective journalism. It means openness about the sources we use, such as direct links to original research papers and to reputable and independent organizations that aggregate data. It also means transparency about who is writing the content. All authors are clearly identified at the top of each article, most with expanded biographies that include their experiences, expertise and affiliations.

Conflicts of Interest (Perceived and Real)

To secure the public’s trust, our primary allegiance is to the public. Any personal or professional interests that conflict with that allegiance, whether in appearance or in reality, risk compromising our credibility. This means that we do not let our financial interests determine the topics we cover, and we do not rank any institutions or products based on any type of financial relationship with an advertiser. Our reporters, editors, freelancers and producers cover issues that are newsworthy and of interest to our readers, not because an issue may be of interest to advertisers.

Verification and Fact Checking

All stories are edited. Reporters are expected to be accurate and provide backup and contact information for their sources. Editors fact check and flag any questions they have before publishing. 

Updates

When we update older stories with new information, we note that the story has been updated as well as when it was updated. We occasionally remove old content from the website or redirect some stories to more recent articles. If our editorial team determines a piece requires updating, it may no longer exist in search engines or on U.S. News’ website, or it may be redirected to a newer piece.

Editorial Standards

Staffers, freelancers and bloggers are all held to the same ethical and editorial standards.