But, as most of our readers know, times continue to be extremely tough for journalism these days. Most advertising money now goes to tech giants, leaving local voices out in the cold. Which is not much help to you when you want to know about local concerts, restaurants, events and news.

The freelance writers and photographers who work for the Houston Press are paid. That costs money even in a stripped-down operation overseen by the editor-in-chief. We need to continue to do that.

So we're offering you a deal to enable us to continue bringing you an alternative voice in Houston. It's a Houston Press membership in which you agree to make a recurring monthly or annual donation.

Most publications when they ask for donations appeal to your sense of civic pride and your willingness to value and support what a media outlet is offering.

We certainly agree with all that, but we're going beyond that.

In return for becoming a Houston Press member, you get to skip the ads. Yes, that means: Houston Press, no ads.

See we like ads, but we understand that some of you think they get in the way, especially when you are trying to get to the meat of an article. If you become a member of the Houston Press community by pledging to make a monthly or annual cash contribution, you'll be able to read an absolutely ad-free version of houstonpress.com. If you'd rather not go ad-free, you can also help us keep community-focused journalism alive in Houston by making a one-time cash contribution or signing up for one or more of our email newsletters.

To be clear, if you aren't inclined to send any money our way, no problem. We'll still be available for free to all. With or without ads, we'll still be concentrating on local news and events and hope you'll stay with us.