Editorial Policy
Average Local Media
At Average Local Media, our mission is to provide accurate, original, and community-focused coverage of local sports throughout Merced County. Our reporting exists to inform, celebrate, and preserve the stories of the athletes, teams, and programs that shape our local community.
We are committed to transparency, editorial integrity, and responsible journalism.
Editorial Independence
Average Local Media operates with full editorial independence.
Advertising, sponsorships, or partnerships do not influence editorial decisions, story selection, or coverage. Any sponsored content is clearly labeled to distinguish it from editorial reporting.
Content Creation & Authorship
All content published on Average Local Media is written by human contributors with direct ties to the local sports community. We do not publish automatically generated or mass-produced content.
Primary contributors include:
- Anthony Martinez, Founder and Lead Writer
A Merced County native with lifelong involvement in local athletics and education. Anthony brings firsthand experience, community perspective, and a deep appreciation for the role sports play in personal growth and community development. - Grace Gallegos, Staff Writer
Grace contributes original reporting and storytelling focused on local teams, athletes, and sporting events.
Each article clearly displays the author’s name.
Use of Artificial Intelligence
Average Local Media does not use artificial intelligence to write or generate articles. All reporting, writing, and editorial review is completed by human contributors to ensure accuracy, authenticity, and local relevance.
Accuracy & Fact-Checking
We take accuracy seriously. Our editorial process includes:
Verifying scores, schedules, and event details
Confirming names, teams, and affiliations
Reviewing submitted photos and information for relevance and accuracy
If an error is identified, we work to correct it promptly.
Corrections & Updates
Corrections or updates may be made directly to articles when necessary. Significant corrections are handled transparently to maintain reader trust.
Readers are encouraged to contact us if they believe an error has occurred.
Opinion & Commentary
Average Local Media publishes both reported stories and opinion pieces.
Opinion articles are clearly labeled and tagged as Opinion. These pieces reflect the views of the individual author and do not necessarily represent the views of Average Local Media as an organization.
Community Submissions & Contributions
We welcome community engagement and contributions, including:
- Additional photos from games or events
- Story tips and suggestions
- Feedback related to coverage
All submitted content is reviewed by our editorial team before being published or added to an existing article.
Coverage Focus
Our coverage is centered on:
- Youth, high school, and community sports
- Teams, athletes, and programs within Merced County
- Stories that reflect the effort, character, and impact of local athletics
Our goal is to provide fair, respectful, and meaningful coverage of local sports at every level.
Contact & Transparency
For corrections, editorial inquiries, or story suggestions, readers may reach us through our contact page. We value open communication with our community and strive to remain accessible and accountable.