I've been reading (though rarely participating in) this site and forums for a very long time. At a time when most photography sites have gotten stale or the owners/writers seem to have lost interest, I think Kevin Raber has been a breath of fresh air and enthusiasm for this site. In particular, Kevin's contribution has opened the site in subtle but important ways, as it somehow feels more inclusive now, less like a boys' club. Having said that, of course I have always liked and still much enjoy Michael's contributions, too.
And for the record, I actually like the workshop 'advertorials'. They permit me to vicariously participate in trips that I could never afford. I also like the toy shop videos, the blooper, the Fuji and Olympus camera videos, etc. I like that fewer of the articles are gear oriented tests now, and more about the actual experience of photography. I am looking forward to an emphasis on prints. My only complaint about content is that I want more of it - more from Michael and Kevin rather than guests, including more recaps (and photos from) both Kevin's and Michael's frequent trips.
I'm relieved that the price to join will only be $12 a year. Making the site member supported does have risks, as each of us will be confronted each year with the question of whether we are getting value from the site. In my own experience, whether that was newspapers, magazines, or paid review/photography sites, I've let all my memberships lapse over time. As readers/supporters, it is inevitable that our standards become higher once we start paying, regardless of the actual cost. We don't like being taken for granted and we don't like feeling like we are not the actual target audience, two situations e.g. where I might continue to come to a free site but will not continue to pay for a member site.