I guess my opinion is formed by considering what is the alternative to the media? Recognizing that they frequently don't get things 100% right, or maybe even 80% right, they at least act as "bell ringers" as they report on whatever they report on, providing me the opportunity to follow up.

The example I started with in the article you posted is a good example. The only thing they got wrong was the status of the technical center. Anyone could crosscheck with other sources if they were sufficiently interested in or perplexed by the reporting. I just don't think that most mainstream media get it wrong on purpose, unlike so many sources that purposely report bs. That's why critical thinking skills are so important and so woefully lacking in so many that read, watch or listen to the media (present company on this fine forum excluded, of course). 

But, clearly this is way off LAC so that's all I'll say. Have a good weekend everyone!