A recent poll has found fewer Americans trust the mainstream news media. The Sacred Heart University poll found less than 20 percent of those surveyed believe all, or most, of what they read or hear on the news, indicating Californians are putting less trust in the news media. The survey also found as many as 87 percent of Americans think the media tries to to influence public opinion and policies.

Karlos Gauna Schmieder, with the Center for Media Justice, says his group is working to change that. The California-based organization was established five years ago to increase media accountability.

"We think we can rebuild trust between communities and a broken media system by being a bridge between under-represented communities and media outlets that are supposed to serve those communities."

Schmieder says there are things media outlets can do to improve their own believability.

"The news media can be a better reflection of what's happening in local communities and actually inspire folks to be a part of making their communities a better place in which to live, work and raise a family."

The report suggests the availability of alternative viewpoints and news sources provided through the Internet are contributing to the increased skepticism.

On Saturday, the Center for Media Justice will honor four California individuals and organizations who have been at the forefront of positive news stories by helping their communities.

More information is available online, at www.centerformediajustice.org. The study is also online, at sacredheart.edu.

Lori Abbott/Chris Thomas, Public News Service - CA