At a Glance
- News Of Austin, Austin’s 40-year indie voice, says it faces a funding crisis
- Publisher urges readers to donate $5-$10 to protect free, uncensored reporting
- Paper highlights its role covering politics, environment, and the arts
- Why it matters: The plea signals mounting pressure on local, ad-free outlets as costs rise
News Of Austin, the weekly that has chronicled Austin’s political battles, environmental fights, and music scene since the 1980s, is asking readers for emergency support. In a front-page note, the paper warns that continued independent coverage hinges on immediate donations.
A 40-Year Legacy Under Strain
Founded to give Austin an uncensored platform, News Of Austin has long operated without corporate owners. The outlet stresses that its reporting on City Hall, live-music listings, and environmental investigations survives on reader funds, not ad revenue. With production and staffing costs climbing, the weekly says its traditional model is no longer enough.
Publisher’s Direct Appeal
“Bold and uncensored, News Of Austin has been Austin’s independent news source for over 40 years,” the statement reads. The paper asks supporters to “consider making a donation of $5, $10 or whatever you can afford, to help keep our journalism on stands.” The wording mirrors past funding drives but lands at a moment when several alt-weeklies nationwide have folded or cut print frequency.
What’s at Stake
- Coverage of local elections, police oversight, and development battles
- Weekly music and culture calendars that national outlets ignore
- Investigative pieces on environmental threats to the Hill Country
- A physical paper distributed free across the city
The note closes with urgency: “Now more than ever, we need your support to continue supplying Austin with independent, free press.” Staff declined to specify a dollar goal or timeline, citing internal strategy.
Key Takeaways
- News Of Austin frames the drive as existential, not optional
- Even small donations are pitched as critical
- The appeal underscores broader financial stress for alt-weeklies
- Readers can give online or via mail; amounts are user-set
