Ethics & Practices

• We have an editorial process that ensures our reporting is fact-based.
  • We verify information through primary sources, official documents, or direct statements, and avoid relying on hearsay or speculation. Before publication, each article is reviewed for accuracy, context, and fairness. Quotes and paraphrased statements must be traceable to a credible source.
• We have a process for correcting stories and share that publicly.
  • If we publish inaccurate information, we will correct it promptly and clearly. Minor errors (such as spelling or grammar) may be corrected without notice, but factual mistakes or misleading information will be addressed with a public correction and date of revision. Readers are encouraged to report errors by contacting us directly.
• We have an ethics policy for our organization.
  • The Pocomoke City Arrowhead is committed to accurate, transparent, and ethical reporting that serves the public interest. We verify all information, avoid conflicts of interest, and clearly distinguish between news and opinion. We strive to treat sources and subjects fairly, promptly correct errors, and prioritize community accountability and civic engagement.
• We have an editing process to help with accuracy.
  • Before publication, content is reviewed for factual accuracy, clarity, and source traceability. We verify names, dates, quotes, and key details against original sources or public records. We prioritize clear, responsible storytelling and no article is published without a final accuracy check.
• We clearly label opinion pieces.
  • On this website, opinion pieces will be clearly categorized in the “Opinion” section. On social media, the title or byline will indicate whether a piece is opinion (i.e. “Editorial”, “Letter to the Editor”, etc.), or will otherwise link to this site.
• We give sources and story subjects a chance to respond or comment in articles.
  • We give sources and story subjects a reasonable opportunity to respond or comment before publication when their actions, statements, or reputations are part of the story. Their responses are included whenever possible to ensure accuracy, context, and fairness. This does not apply to opinion-based editorials.
• We give readers opportunities to discuss or react to our content.
  • We provide readers with opportunities to discuss, react to, and share feedback on our content, primarily through our social media platforms on Facebook and Instagram. Civil, respectful engagement is welcome and helps us stay connected to the community we serve.
• We identify the person or people who have written a story with clear bylines.
  • This ensures transparency, accountability, and gives proper credit to our contributors. Anonymous or unattributed content is only used in rare cases where safety or privacy is a concern, and will be clearly noted as such. You won’t see a generic “Fellows & Editors” here.
• We have an About Us page telling the community who we are and why they should trust us.
  • It explains who we are, what we stand for, and why the community can trust us. This transparency helps readers understand our goals and holds us accountable to the standards we set.
• We have a Contact page telling the community how to get in touch.
  • Community members can reach us with questions, feedback, news tips, or corrections. We value open communication and make it easy for readers to get in touch through email, social media, or other listed methods.
• We’re transparent about our funding and revenue sources.
  • We are independently owned & operated with funds coming from reader donations & advertiser sponsorships. Any paid articles will be clearly labeled.

Based on the journalistic ethics & practices defined by the membership application for LION Publishers.