T-Squared: Amped!

Break out your credit cards and crack open your checkbooks: We're at the halfway point of Amplify Austin — a 24-hour online fundraising campaign that raises millions of dollars for hundreds of worthy local nonprofits, including The Texas Tribune. Of course we want you to take part.

Each of the last three years, we've happily participated in this annual community-wide giving binge, taking in significant contributions and making great friends who've remained loyal readers and supporters. This year should be no different. We began with three generous advance pledges totaling $7,700 that were offered up as matching funds. In all, we've set a goal of $14,000, and all signs suggest we're well on our way to exceeding it.

The reason to give is obvious — or should be. At all times, but especially during an election season, the work of the Trib's amazing newsroom provides context, insight and clarity that can't be found elsewhere. Our couple dozen reporters, our crack data applications team and our tireless event producers fully embrace our nonpartisan public service mission: They'll do whatever it takes to inform, educate and engage with our friends and neighbors on matters of statewide interest.

The fair, thorough and accurate reporting generated nonstop by Team Trib is expensive, but thanks to you we have the means to run a sustainable business. The money we bring in, on Amplify Austin day and all year long, goes mostly to pay salaries and buy and maintain technology. When you give to the Tribune, you are literally paying for serious journalism.

We hope you'll kick in a few bucks — or more than a few — in the next 12 hours to make Texas a smarter state and therefore a better state. To donate, click here. Thanks!