Established in 2023 by writer and journalist Bill Shein, The Berkshire Argus is a reader-supported, paywall-free, online newsmagazine and newsletter featuring in-depth, long-form reporting on local and regional issues.
We produce engaging, fully-told stories that are rich with context, history, and myriad voices and perspectives. That includes investigative and accountability journalism that uncovers the truth and challenges long-unquestioned narratives—always without fear or favor.
We focus on impactful stories that may take weeks or months to research and write. We dig into public records and, for our most extensive projects, may interview dozens of people—or more. It’s journalism that fills a vital gap in the Berkshires’ news and information landscape.
There's also audio reporting and podcast interviews that allow the sharing of perspectives beyond just sound bites and pull-quotes. And scroll through our digital pages to find more: News analysis, informed commentary, and some (much-needed) humor—all meant to inform, enlighten, and entertain.
∎ What does “Argus” mean?
Taken from Greek mythology, Argus Panoptes is an all-seeing guardian with 100 eyes—some remain open even as it sleeps. It was once popular as a name for newspapers, suggesting a watchful eye over government and the powerful. As the Greek poet Hesiod wrote of Argus: “Sleep never fell upon his eyes; but he kept sure watch always.”
∎ Who funds The Argus?
You do. ;)
The Argus is entirely reader-funded. But to ensure our reporting is available to everyone—regardless of ability to pay—the Argus has no paywall. And to maintain fierce independence and singular focus, we accept no advertising.
The Argus relies exclusively on voluntary paid subscriptions and additional reader support through one-time and recurring contributions.
Note: Financial contributions do not influence story selection or editorial content; subscribers and donors have no involvement in our coverage. We do not give supporters the rights to assign, review or edit content. Accepting financial support does not mean we endorse donors or their products, services, or opinions.
The Argus will publish a transparency report that makes public all revenue sources and donors who give $5,000 or more per year, a standard for transparency set by the Institute for Nonprofit News. (Note that contributions to The Argus are not currently tax-deductible.)
∎ No paywall, that’s great! Do I still need to subscribe?
The Argus has no paywall to ensure our stories are widely read, impactful, and available to all.
We ask Argus readers to become free subscribers for full access to all stories, requiring only an email address. Your email is only used to provide that access and to send occasional emails with new reporting and Argus updates. We never sell or share your information; see our privacy policy for details.
In some stories you may reach a prompt to login or become a free subscriber to continue reading. The Argus uses easy, password-free login security; see “FAQ: Subscriptions and Support,” below, for login help.
∎ Can I submit a letter to the editor?
Yes! Instructions here.
(Online comments are currently disabled as we explore options for constructive online discussion. Commenting is available on our Facebook and Instagram pages.)
∎ How do I submit a news tip?
Visit our news tip page.
∎ How do I contact The Argus?
Visit our Contact Us page.
∎ I’m an Argus subscriber (free or paid). How do I log in?
Click here or the “Sign In” link in the top navigation bar or mobile site drop-down menu. Enter the email address used to subscribe. Click “Continue” and the site will immediately send a login link to your email address. (Check your spam/junk folder if you don’t see it.)
Click the “magic link” in the email and it will automatically log you into the website; there’s no need to remember a password. You’ll likely remain logged in for weeks or months and can easily login as needed.
Need help? Contact us.
∎ How do I make an additional one-time or recurring contribution to The Argus?
We thought you'd never ask! ;) To provide additional support beyond your voluntary paid subscription, please visit our support page. Thank you!
(Contributions to The Argus are not currently tax-deductible.)
∎ How do I upgrade or change a monthly or annual paid subscription?
- Sign in your account at berkshireargus.com with your email address. (Look for “Sign In” in the upper right corner.)
- Click the “Account” button in the top right of the screen and click “Change” next to the list of subscription categories and make any changes.
∎ How do I cancel a monthly or annual voluntary paid subscription?
It’s easy, follow the steps below:
- Sign in your account at berkshireargus.com with your email address. (Look for “Sign In” in the upper right corner.)
- Click the “Account” button in the top right of the screen and click “Change” next to the list of subscription categories.
- At the bottom, click the button that says “Cancel Subscription.” Then, in the next window, click “Confirm Cancellation.”
As you click “Confirm Cancellation,” you may feel a powerful-but-non-fatal electrical shock delivered through your keyboard or phone. (Kidding!)
After cancelling a voluntary paid subscription, you’ll still be a free subscriber with full access.
(Note: The Argus does not issue pro-rated or other refunds. Please contact us with any special circumstances.)
∎ How do I unsubscribe from the occasional Berkshire Argus newsletters/emails?
We send very few emails: An emailed version of new articles and occasional updates on the Argus project. (We respect your inbox and value your time.)
To unsubscribe, click the “Unsubscribe” link located at the bottom of every newsletter and email we send.
You can also manage your email preferences at berkshireargus.com: Sign in to your account with your email address, click the “Account” button, and then click “Manage” under “Emails.”
(Note: Unsubscribing does not automatically cancel a voluntary paid subscription. See instructions above for ending a paid subscription.)
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