The Arg
The Haunting of Elm Farm
Raislyn Palmer '27
As October arrives and Halloween comes near, stories of haunted houses and paranormal encounters often make their way into conversations. At Rutgers Prep, one such story has been part of campus lore for years. It centers on Elm Farm, the historic building that, despite being in the middle of campus, most students have never entered.
Elm Farm was built in the late 19th century and once served as the summer home of the Wells family, known for their connection to Wells Fargo. In 1958, the school purchased the property from Abraham Beach, a local minister and one of the co-founders of RPS. Since then, the building has served many purposes, from administrative offices to seasonal celebrations like Dr. Loy’s Christmas train set. But behind its quiet exterior, there are stories that suggest something more.
Some believe Elm Farm was once a stop on the underground railroad. During renovations after Hurricane Floyd, crews uncovered sealed stone rooms in the basement that had been hidden away for de-
Any RPS student will immediately recognize the Argonaut as this school’s mascot, but many may not be aware of the word's origin. As a prominent cultural symbol at Prep, its story is one worth uncovering.
Prior to the Trojan War (near 1300 BCE) in the Greek city of Iolcus, Pelias usurped the city’s throne from his half brother, Aeson. Jason, the son of Aeson and rightful heir to the throne, was sent away as a young child, where he was raised by Chiron (a centaur) on the Mountain of Pelion.
At twenty, Jason was determined to regain his throne, journeying to confront Pelias. On this journey, Jason passed a trial from Hera (wife of Zeus), losing a sandal in the process. When
cades. Their original purpose remains uncertain, but their discovery has only added to the sense of mystery that surrounds the building. Having secret rooms just further suggests that the building has secrets.
Several faculty members have shared unsettling experiences. Mr. Marotto, former middle school principal, worked on the maintenance team in his early twenties before he became a teacher. One
side. After going inside and turning it off, Mr. Marotto says that he would turn a corner, look back, and the lights would still be on. Mr. Marotto also remembers hearing people playing cards on the top floor, and when he went up to see who it was, there was no one there. He and Mr. Lewandowski, another member of the maintenance team, both reported feeling some kind of a presence. On one occasion, they were both pushed down the stairs by an
of his duties used to be walking around campus and making sure all the buildings were locked and lights were off. He recalls noticing a light on one night while walking through Elm Farm with his German Shepherd, who refused to step in-
unseen force. Mr. Lewandoski even fell so hard that he broke the first floor landing! While these stories may sound like something from a movie, they come from firsthand experiences. For those who work in Elm Farm daily, the possibility of
Who Really Were The Argonauts?
Neil Bajaj ‘29
confronted, Pelias remembered an oracle that prophesied that a one-sandaled man would take his throne. As a result, Jason was given the seemingly impossible task of retrieving the Golden Fleece, the gold-colored skin of a magical, winged-ram, from Colchis to regain his honor.
Admiring the heroic nature of his mission, the gods sent out a call for heroes. Many notable figures answered, including Heracles, the god of strength and son of Zeus; Orpheus, a legendary poet and prophet; Castor and Pollux, notable twin demigods; and around 50 more.
The Argo, the crew’s vessel, was created by Argus, who was guided by the goddess Athena. The ship's name combined with the Greek word for voyager
("naut") was used to describe its crew, the Argonauts.
The crew faced numerous challenges, including the cursed island of Lemnos and battling the gigantic Gegenees. At one point on the trip, Hercules’s companion Hylas was abducted by water nymphs after losing Hercules’s oar, and the demigod never stopped searching for him. Other challenges along the journey include stories about King Amycus, the Symplegades, the Stymphalian Birds, and more.
Upon arriving on Colchis, Jason faced even more deadly trials to obtain the fleece. Hera, aware of the trials, had sent Eros (the god of love) to make the powerful sorceress Medea fall in love with Jason to aid him. Jason and Medea took the fleece,
something lingering from the past feels very real.
While these incidents happened long before my time at Rutgers Prep, I had my own unusual moment there, one that began innocently enough. While being given a tour of the building by none other than our head of school, Dr. Loy, I somehow ended up locked in the attic. Dr. Loy claims it was an accident, but I’m sure he was working with the ghosts. The attic felt like something straight out of The Conjuring. It had dim lighting, creaky wood floors, and black and white photos of teachers dressed as clowns, The experience was brief but unsettling. While Dr. Loy and I can laugh about it now, it was incredibly nerve-wracking at the time.
Whether Elm Farm is haunted or not remains up to you, but the spooky history of the building is undeniable. From the secret rooms to the creepy photos, I believe there must be something lurking within its halls.
married, and sailed back home to Iolcus.
Prep’s core values are “Perseverance, Respect, Empathy, and Personal Integrity,” for it was these values that led to Jason’s possession of the fleece. The fleece is not a symbol only in the story of Jason, though, it also represents the goals of every student at Rutgers Prep. It is through this goal-driven mindset that the Argonauts still exist today, facing their challenges daily on our campus – whether it be by collaborating on a group project, or persevering through another home game. With over 200 clubs and athletic teams, our inclusive environment encourages members to collaborate and leaders to step up, each student pursuing their own golden fleece.
The Elm Farm Building Photo Credit: DiGroupArchitecture
New Teachers Spotlight:
Mr. Vignolini
and Ms.
Rogers
Yunjin Choi ‘28 and Zara Nagabushana ‘28
As you caught up with friends and faculty on the first day, you may have also noticed some new additions to our faculty. We had the opportunity to interview two new teachers to learn more about what they bring to the Rutgers Prep community. This year, Rutgers Prep warmly welcomes Mr. Vignolini to the Math Department and Ms. Rogers to the World Language Department. Both have a deep passion for teaching and are focused on students growing and learning to do the right thing. Here’s a closer look at who they are and their background.
Born in Fort Monmouth, NJ, Mr. Vignolini moved frequently due to his father’s Air Force career, attending seven schools by 7th grade. These constant changes taught him how to read people and adapt. Before becoming a teacher, Mr. Vignolini worked in the stock market; however, he found a greater passion in the classroom. He enjoyed the frequent thought-provoking questions his students asked and the engaging conversations around math, which confirmed that teaching was the path he was meant to take.
Reflecting on his own academic journey, Mr. Vignolini recalled a time when he received a disappointing college exam score. Instead of giving up, he kept working hard and ended up earning the second-highest grade in the class. This taught him that the only way to truly fail is to give up. Building on this resilience, his first four years teaching at an all-girls school in Queens had the biggest impact on his teaching career, because the students challenged him both as a teacher and coach. Mr. Vignolini encourages students to live life to the fullest, pursue what brings them joy, and always keep an eye on the future. His guiding motto, “Do the right thing because it’s the right thing to do,” reflects exactly these values. Mr. Vignolini is excited to join the Rutgers Preparatory School community and support students in discovering who they are, both academ-
ically and personally.
Unlike the locally-raised Mr. Vignolini, Ms. Rogers was born in a small country town in Texas before moving to Dallas. She started learning French at age 13 and took it throughout high school. After graduating from high school, her passion for the French language and culture grew, leading her to live in France for three years. Ms. Rogers says she was often the youngest among her colleagues, but these experiences deepened her love for teaching and gave her confidence in the classroom. In France, working with students of different ages showed her how much students trusted her, sometimes even before she trusted herself. Watching them progress and seeing their excitement to learn made her fall in love with the teaching process.
When reflecting on her younger years, Ms. Rogers acknowledges that, similar to other children, she acted impulsively without thinking. While she doesn’t have moments of regret, she emphasizes how important it is to pause before speaking, and she shares this advice often with her students. For Ms. Rogers, joining the Rutgers Preparatory community was a big step. This is her first time living in New Jersey, and what immediately struck her was how genuinely supportive and diverse the Rutgers Prep community is, noting, “It's something that you can feel… many institutions claim to be diverse but you can’t see it. When I got here everyone was so welcoming, everyone was helpful.”
To teach French, Ms. Rogers enjoys using authentic materials such as maps, magazines, and other resources she collected while living abroad. She believes that real-world connections are key to language learning. Ms. Rogers is excited to continue sharing her love for the French language and culture with her students at RPS, while supporting them as they discover their own identity.
Rutgers Prep Girls Wrestling
For years, wrestling has been known as a boy-dominated sport. At most schools across the country, if a girl wanted to wrestle, she had no choice but to join the boys team. Quiana Lentini ’26 did just that last season here at Rutgers Prep, training and competing against male opponents, often practicing with boys outside of her weight class. Now, as Prep launches its first ever girls wrestling team, Quiana couldn’t be more excited.
Though Quiana said she had a great experience on the Rutgers Prep Boys Wrestling team, she also noted that there is an obvious awkwardness having to wrestle boys, especially when she began and they had to teach her how to do certain moves. Quiana also mentioned her appreciation for everyone on the boys team, especially how they made her feel welcomed and never saw her being a girl as any kind of a disadvantage.
Wrestling has always
Raislyn Palmer '27
been a demanding sport, requiring strength, technique, and discipline. Historically, it’s been seen as a “male” sport, but that’s been shifting in a big way over the past few decades. Girls have been wrestling in high schools for years but often without the same resources or opportunity to compete against others their size and skill level. In most places, girls who wanted to wrestle had to go up against boys, sometimes giving up size and strength along the way.
That started to change in the early 2000s, when more states began sanctioning official high school girls wrestling divisions. Since then, the sport has grown rapidly. According to the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS), there were just over 6,000 girls wrestling in U.S. high schools in 2009. By the 2023-2024 season, that number had jumped to over 50,000. The NFHS even called girls wrestling the
fastest growing sport in the country.
More than 40 states now hold official girls state championships, on the college level, the number of programs offering women's wrestling has skyrocketed, too, with many schools even offering scholarships. That means there are real opportunities for girls to continue wrestling beyond high school, something that wasn’t possible for most female athletes 10 or 15 years ago.
That’s why it’s such a big deal that Rutgers Prep is starting a girls wrestling team now. It’s not just about making history at the school. It’s about giving girls a space to compete, improve, and enjoy the sport on equal footing. The team is still in the early stages as practice has not yet begun, but the energy is high. With athletes like Quiana leading the way, the future of girls wrestling at Rutgers Prep looks promising, and more importantly, it's finally here.
Suspension of Jimmy Kimmel Live!
On September 17, 2025, the American Broadcasting Company (ABC), suspended the production of the classic late-night talk show, Jimmy Kimmel Live!, a move that has sent shockwaves through the media for its controversy. Although there has been no detailed public explanations from both ABC and their parent company, The Walt Disney Company, as to the reasoning behind this suspension, the network has mentioned in public statements that the program is “inflaming a tense situation” and has made “insensitive and ill-timed” comments. Although not explicitly stated, many observers have linked this decision to the comments Jimmy Kimmel made about the assassination of right-wing activist and Turning Point USA CEO Charlie Kirk. The decision drew swift and intense reactions. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), partnering with over 400 artists and writers, signed a letter condemning the suspension as an attack on free speech. The advocacy group warned that silencing comedians un-
Aditya Nagpal '27
der political pressure undermines the trust people have in the media. Meanwhile, prominent figures, like the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chair Brendan Carr, were enraged by Kimel’s comments. Prior to Kimmel’s suspension, Carr regarded the talk show host’s remarks as “truly sick conduct” on a podcast with American commentator Benny Johnson. Additionally, he suggested that if ABC did not address the issue, the FCC would take a “closer look” into regulatory action, pressuring the multimedia corporation to suspend its longtime TV personality.
However, Kimmel’s suspension remained shortlived. Just 6 days after being suspended (September 23, 2025), ABC announced that Jimmy Kimmel Live! was being brought back, along with stating that they have “spent the last days having thoughtful conversations with Jimmy, and after those conversations, we reached the decision to return the show on Tuesday.” Jimmy Kimmel responded to this controversy on his first night back, maintaining his
view on the situation and defending comedic satire as a means to address difficult topics.
Not all broadcasters have welcomed Jimmy with open arms. Two of ABC’s biggest affiliates, Nexstar Media Group and Sinclair Broadcast Group, announced that they will not be bringing back the program. Instead, they have replaced the timeslot for the channel with local news or syndicated shows. This change will bring about reduced reach in key markets for Kimmel, leaving regions such as Washington D.C., Seattle, Nashville, and New Orleans without the program.
For Americans, this incident highlights how a late-night talk show can trigger national debate and argument. It raises questions about the limits of political pressure and serves as a representation of the growing tension between media and politics. Now with Jimmy Kimmel reinstated but his future uncertain, it begs the question: to what extent should politics affect the shows we watch and laugh at?
AI in the Classroom: How Artificial Intelligence is Changing the Educational Landscape
Luka Birac '27
Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer a concept reserved for futuristic scifi movies; it’s fundamentally transforming the way students learn and teachers teach. Among the most widely utilized tools is ChatGPT, an AI chatbot capable of generating essays, solving math problems, and even translating conversations. The swift rise of Large Language Models (LLMs) like ChatGPT poses both opportunities and challenges.
For many students, AI is a tutor on demand. Experiencing writer's block? ChatGPT can generate outlines or help spark ideas. Confused on a calculus problem? It can walk you through each step. AI has opened the door to a world of highly flexible learning, allowing students to access a personalized tutor at any time, free of cost. Unlike traditional tutoring, which requires scheduling and relies mostly on verbal explanations, AI tools like ChatGPT can adapt to a student’s needs based on prior chats, provide immediate information, and convey information visually or verbally through its conversation feature.
Of course, not all uses are productive. Teachers worry about plagiarism and academic honesty. If a chatbot can produce a complete essay in a matter of seconds, what prevents students from submitting AI-generated work as their own? Some schools have responded by employing AI detection software, but some argue that they are often inaccurate and cannot reliably distinguish between human and artificially generated writing. Others argue that teachers should shift their focus to embrace AI as a tool of the classroom–much like the electronic calculator, which redefined the way math was taught.
Anna Macleod, an English teacher at Rutgers Preparatory School, says, “It's a tool, and like any other tool, it can be used for positive or negative. I look at it like the Internet. People can use it for all sorts of things that they should or should not be using it for. And I think, as
a school, it’s important that we use it in some capacity.”
Educators are also finding creative ways to harness AI in the classroom. On the topic of leveraging the power of AI in and outside the classroom Macleod reflects, “I think that’s something I’m gonna have to learn every day, how to get better with. It’s going to be present, so how do we work with it and not necessarily against it?” Some have begun using AI-powered language learning apps, which enable students to practice foreign language conversations outside the classroom while giving teachers the ability to provide individualized feedback on their performance. Others have adopted learning focused AI programs like Flint, which is an educator targeted software that allows teachers to personalize the chatbot to aid students in specific topics by uploading learning materials like study guides or quizzes for Flint to reference.
While the debate on whether AI truly improves students' educational experience is ever evolving, one thing is certain: students who learn how to employ AI in a productive manner will be at an advantage compared to their peers who simply use it as a shortcut. Macleod notes, “You have to be able to have the idea, have the creativity yourself, and then know how to use it as a tool in which you can manipulate that material or use it in some interesting way.” Ultimately, as AI continues to develop and become increasingly prevalent, students who pair its abilities with original thought and ingenuity will only strengthen and expand their skillset.
Wild Weeds to…Pies and Lattes?
This month, millions of Americans will be making shopping trips for a particular item: a pumpkin. While many people around the world use pumpkins as a necessary part of their diet, in the USA, pumpkins are mainly used for decoration. However, the pumpkin we all know and love today was not always the way it is now.
The term, “pumpkin” that most Americans assign to the orange crop actually applies to a range of crops in the same genus, Cucurbita. However, what we consider a pumpkin is generally whatever Cucurbita variety is most popular in the area. This confusion arises from the fact that all Cucurbita varieties today descend from five or six closely related wild species. Each was domesticated at a different time; the first was domes-
Shaurya Upadhyay
‘29
ticated nearly ten thousand years ago in Mexico, which transformed into the colorful, bumpy, and edible crops we know and love today. There are a few ways to assess the evolution of pumpkins, one of which is studying wild pumpkins and contrasting them with those grown on farms. The wild versions of pumpkins are about the size of a baseball, yellow, and smooth compared to the bigger, warty, and colorful pumpkins grown on farms. In addition, these wild pumpkins are inedible with high amounts of a bitter chemical to ward off insects, making the plant potentially nausea-inducing. Now, you may be wondering, “If this plant is so unbeneficial to humans, why did people keep it around back then?” The plant wasn’t totally use-
less. In fact, its seeds were actually quite nutritious and the rind was used to keep fishing nets afloat. Another reason the wild variety has stuck around so long is because of how difficult it would be to remove the wild pumpkin. The seeds are like weeds and were able to grow in the most harsh conditions (they could grow in a dumpster if the seeds were just thrown in).
Over time, the plant began to change into what we have today because of some convenient local pumpkin stores, where customers could select the pumpkins they liked, gradually shaping preferred genetic profiles over time. Ultimately, the plants we love today for its lattes, pies, and so on, were not always the same.
Science Myths Busted!
Raunit Khanna ‘29 and Ansh Jalona ‘29
The world is full of scientific wonder; but it’s also filled with blunders that have never been corrected. These myths have been erroneously passed down, stemming from your mom, dad, or even your older brother who is trying to trick you!
Myth 1: Humans Only Use 10% of Their Brains
Everyone at one point has heard the statement that you are only using 10% of your brain, while the other 90% is functionless. This idea could have come from movies or books that preposterously claim that, when you tap into the other 90% of your brain, you can start using superpowers! Truthfully, brain scanning technology, such as Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), shows that we use every part of our brain, even when sleeping. Different parts of your brain are being used during different
activities, and while there isn’t a vast majority of the brain that is unused, there is still room to strengthen and grow skills.
Myth 2: Lightning Will Never Strike the Same Place Twice
The phrase “lightning never strikes the same place twice” is most commonly used in literature as a hyperbole. In nature, this statement is completely false. Lightning is more likely to strike tall, pointed, or metal objects repeatedly. That's also how a lightning rod works and is also why the Empire State Building is hit by lightning 20-25 times a year. In fact, it is more common for lightning to strike the same place than to strike different places. Whenever there is a storm, make sure to stay away from spots that have already been struck by lightning.
Myth 3: Dropping a Penny from a Skyscraper
Could Kill Someone
The claim that “dropping a penny from a skyscraper could kill someone” may appear believable at first glance, but physics proves that it is nothing more than a white lie. In physics, when dropping the penny, gravity would pull down on the penny with lots of force. But in response, the air resistance would push the penny back up, and since the penny is flat and wide, the faster it falls, the stronger the air pushes back. This would make the penny reach a terminal velocity of 25 miles per hour. Even though this seems a lot, the penny at most would just sting a little when it hits you.
Many common misconceptions are passed down through generations, but science helps reveal the truth behind each and every one.
What ingredients are found in popular Halloween candy?
Nitara Baruah ‘28, Sophia Lai ‘28, and Jwala Rajnikanth ‘28
Have you ever wondered what is inside some of your favorite candies?
Behind every sweet bite of candy lies ingredients that may or may not shock you. From the smooth peanut butter of Reese’s to the chewy crunch of Nerds Gummy Clusters, these candies include grams of added sugar, artificial flavouring, and chemicals you cannot pronounce the name of.
Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups are famous for their salty and sweet flavor. The combination of chocolate and peanut butter makes them a top choice for many. However, two cups contain 20 grams of sugar, 19 being added sugars! Consuming two Reese's Peanut Butter Cups takes up more than half of the daily recommended added sugar intake according to the American Heart Association!
Other than sugar, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups contain compounds such as synthetic tert-butylhydroquinone, lecithin, and dextrose. These compounds are linked to inflammation, damage to DNA, cancer, and impacts metabolism and immune function.
Similarly, Sour Patch Kids are made from a mix of sugars, acids and other additives that create their signature “sour then sweet” taste. The sugars and corn syrup that give them their chewy texture can spike blood sugar and increase the risk of obesity and heart disease. Each serving contains around 24 grams of sugar, which is roughly the same amount as a small can of Coca-Cola. Some studies have also found that high fructose corn syrup can contain traces of mercury, a substance that may harm the brain and other organs.
The additives do not stop there. Modified corn starch gives the candy shape, but is highly processed and offers no nutritional value. Artificial colors like Red 40, Yellow 5, and Blue 1 make Sour Patch Kids bright and eye-catching, yet these dyes have been linked to hyperactivity, cancer, and even traces of arsenic and lead. With all of these ingredients combined, Sour Patch Kids are best enjoyed occasionally rather than as a daily snack.
Nerds Gummy Clusters, another top favorite candy, have been on the rise since their 2020 release. The first ingredients – dextrose, sugar, and corn syrup – make up the bulk of the candy, adding 21 grams of sugar per serving. However, overconsumption of sugar is linked to obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
The chewy center uses gelatin and modified corn starch, which provide texture but little nutrition. The candy’s color comes from artificial dyes and carmine, a pigment made from crushed beetles. These dyes make the candy colorful but raises ethical and health questions.
However, there are some natural ingredients, such as apple juice concentrate for sweetness, acacia gum to bind the candy together, and carnauba wax harvested from Brazilian palm trees, which gives the candy a glossy finish.
Although candies like Reese’s, Sour Patch Kids, and Nerds Gummy Clusters taste great, they contain ingredients that pose long term health risks if eaten frequently. While it is fine to enjoy them once in a while, it is important to know that every sweet bite has a price to pay.
MLB Standings and Award Leaders: Check In
Niam Nagabhushana’29 and Jayden Chin’29
The 2025 MLB season is rolling to an end, and the playoff picture begins to solidify as teams through both the American and National League jostle for position. The Toronto Blue Jays hold a 90–67 record to lead the East Division in the American League, with the New York Yankees at a 89–68 record, trailing right behind. In the Central, the Cleveland Guardians and Detroit Tigers are working out who is first at 85–72. The Seattle Mariners take the lead in the West at 88–69. The National League leaders are Philadelphia Phillies in the East, at 92–65, Milwaukee Brewers in the Central, at 95–63, and Los Angeles Dodgers in the West at 88–69.
As the season winds down, the MVP races start to become hot. Aaron Judge from the New York Yankees is dominating the leading spots in the American League with a .326 batting average, a .451 on-base percentage, and a .672 slugging percentage. He has a major challenge from Cal Raleigh from the Seattle Mariners,
who has been performing well at-bat and is leading the league with 58 home runs.
For the National League, Shohei Ohtani of Los Angeles Dodgers stands out, with 53 home runs and 141 runs, while the Philadelphia Phillies have it all living on Kyle Schwarber’s existence. He is actually close on the heels of Ohtani with 53 home runs and 129 RBIs.
The races for Cy Young are also gaining steam. In the AL, Tarik Skubal is currently the frontrunner with a 2.18 ERA and 181 strikeouts. Boston's Garrett Crochet is knocking close behind with a 2.23 ERA over 141-plus innings. In the NL, the Pittsburgh Pirates' Paul Skenes has been dethroning others for the top position with his 2.02 ERA and holding opposing batters to an average of .187. In the mix as well is a 2.40 ERA from Philadelphia's Cristopher Sánchez.
The Rookie of the Year battles are setting up with some unanticipated performances. On the AL side, Nick Kurtz of the Oakland
Athletics has done much to impress with a .312 average to his name, plus 23 home runs and a 1.012 OPS, while his teammate Jacob Wilson has also made a name for himself, hitting .332 with 28 strikeouts in 87 games. NTL-wise, Atlanta Braves' Drake Baldwin takes the lead with 13 home runs and an .835 OPS, keeping the race tight with the Chicago Cubs' Cade Horton, all of whose stats are particularly formidable.
By late 2025, and entering the final stretch of the big league season, fans have had division-ending races and individual honors to watch. Aspects of the game such as thesepromise to put a last bit of thrill into an electrifying baseball year.
March Madness History
Samik Nayar ‘29, Saathvik Vasudevan ‘29, and Vihaan Verma ‘29
March Madness is one of the most anticipated, thrilling, and exciting sports events. In 2025, each game had 9.4 million viewers on average. The tournament draws people from all over the country; the Cinderella stories, buzzer-beaters, and championship runs all play a huge part. In 2016, Chris Jenkins shot a game winning buzzer beater. In 2018 UMBC shocked Virginia in a historic upset. All these moments and more define this tournament and continue to make this event one of the most popular sporting events in the USA. For the upcoming 2026 tournament Houston and UConn are the favorites.
The 2016 march madness season, filled with storyline victories and heartwrenching defeats, complies with the ongoing list of historical campaigns from a variety of teams. From #15 seed, Middle Tennessee upsetting #2 seed, Michigan State, to the #10 seed, Syracuse, making their way to the final four, this year was
filled with memorable moments. In the championship game, Vanderbilt vs UNC, Marcus Paige of UNC made a three with seconds left, to tie the game at 74. Vanderbilt, with 5 seconds left, dribbles down the court and makes the game winning shot at the buzzer, crowning them the first ever buzzer-beater March-Madness champions. This season, like many before it, carried fairytale runs and monumental plays. Through the hardship and challenges, teams found resilience and perseverance through companionship and teamwork, ultimately leading to one of the greatest March Madness seasons in history.
The UMBC Retrievers, the No. 16 seed, played the No. 1 seed, Virginia. This game wasn’t looking good for UMBC as Virginia was highly ranked and was expected to make a deep run. Despite all odds Jairus Lyles scored 28 points leading his team to a 53-33 lead over Virginia. He was 9 for 11 from the field and the game
ended 74-54 with one of the biggest upsets in tournament history. This game is an incredible and inspiring example of how even when the odds are against you, you can still prevail. UMBC proved this with their victory.
The 2026 March Madness tournament has received a lot of excitement due to new and upcoming popular high school basketball prospects such as AJ Dybantsa, Darryn Peterson, and the loaded Duke team featuring Cameron and Cayden Boozer as well as lots of new thrilling talent from the transfer portal and last year's bench.
March Madness being such an exclusive tournament will be a significant opportunity for these youngsters to showcase their talent on the big stage and get prepared for their potential pro careers. I'm confident that many loyal fans will have this season in the books of as one of the most enjoyable March Madness seasons.
Photo Credit: BulkStore
Shohei Ohtani
Photo Credit: Britannica
Rutgers Prep Argonauts Volleyball
Remains Undefeated in Skyland Conference
The 2025–2026 season has been historically amazing for the Rutgers Prep Girls’ Volleyball team. From the first serve of the season, the team has been buzzing with energy, determination, and grit, blowing past their opponents on their way to an unbeaten section mark. Their most recent victory, a two-set thumping victory, is just another testament to how dominant they've been on the court. The Rutgers Prep volleyball squad extended their sectional unbeaten streak with a sweep of their latest opponent in consecutive sets on Thursday, September 25th. The Argonauts, by virtue of the win, sport one of the longest program winning streaks in RPS history, making a very strong case as a team deserving of consideration this year.
What makes this team stand out is not the win tally, but the manner in which they do so. Every game is a mix of sound fundamentals and unbeatable team chemistry. Serves are blazing,
Saanvi Chigurupati
‘28
defense is unyielding, and attacks are made with conviction. But beyond talent, the unity of the team is their strongest asset. Communication is cut-and-dry, and every point shows just how much faith and coordination among players there is. It is the coaching team which has been at the heart of all this success. Training is hard. The players are pushed to the limit, as well as being exhorted to defend one another like sisters. That common purpose off the court has carried over directly to the playing court and is giving Rutgers Prep that additional edge, visible in their teamwork and unity throughtout this week. With an opposition prepared to do anything it takes to claim victory, the team remained level-headed, unflustered, and confident. They set the tempo throughout and never let momentum slip from their grasp. By winning the match in straight sets, they reminded everyone why they are still undefeated and still a force to be reckoned
with in their division. In the coming future, the team is determined to carry on this winning streak. With the regular season still holding strong and post-season play just around the corner, Rutgers Prep is determined to stand its ground not only to keep its unblemished record intact but set a level of excellence for all future teams to aspire to. Every game is another chance to demonstrate that their success is not something that occurred by chance but is a product of preparation, hard work, and trust in one another.
The 2025-2026 Rutgers Prep volleyball squad is already one of the school's most memorable and oldschool squads. The team’s culture, dedication, and success is a testament to what can be accomplished where talent, discipline, and teamwork intersect. If their season so far is any example, the legend of this team is just getting started.
NBA 2026 Championship Predictions
As the offseason draws to a close, the NBA once again turns its attention to the most popular question of the year: Who will bring home the ultimate prize this season? In 2026, the answer is harder than ever, with multiple teams stacked with serious talent. Who are some of the top contenders for the championship? Maybe your team is one of them.
The Oklahoma City Thunder have the greatest odds to win the championship this year, according to ESPN. In the 2024–25 season, they recorded 68 wins with only 14 losses. The leader and centerpiece of the team, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, earned both the regular-season MVP and Finals MVP last year. The 6’6” guard elevated his game to a new level, averaging 32.7 points and 6.4 assists per game. He can score at all three levels and excels at putting opponents into foul trouble. Oklahoma City Thunder also features young big man Chet Holmgren, who protects the
Felix Li ‘27
rim, and Jalen Williams, a rising star. It’s no surprise they are the repeated favorites, as they claimed the championship in the 2024–25 season.
The Denver Nuggets remain a major threat. Nikola Jokić is still, without question, the best player in the league. The team also made a significant move, sending Michael Porter Jr. out in exchange for Cameron Johnson. Johnson, a sharpshooting wing, adds efficiency and strengthens Denver’s perimeter scoring. Their bench has also improved, with veterans Tim Hardaway Jr. and Jonas Valančiūnas providing much-needed depth.
The Cleveland Cavaliers and New York Knicks are also strong contenders.
The Cavaliers boast AllStar guard Donovan Mitchell, an elite scorer, and Evan Mobley, a young power forward known for his rim protection and defense. The Knicks, meanwhile, feature Jalen Brunson, an elite scorer and clutch performer. With Karl-Anthony Towns joining the roster last season, New York has taken a major leap forward. Other teams with championship aspirations include the Houston Rockets, Minnesota Timberwolves, and Los Angeles Lakers. With so many rising stars and talented rosters across the league, this season promises to be one of the most competitive in recent history. If you’re an NBA fan, you won’t want to miss a single game.
An Inside Look on Athlens
Trisha Paul ‘28 and Jordan Reigrod ‘27
Imagine walking off the field after playing one of the best soccer games of your career. You are feeling incredible, until you realize you have no way to rewatch your performance or share your highlights with others. This was exactly the situation that Jais Roy ‘27 faced. Frustrated, he turned to his friend Aidan Rico ‘27 and voiced his annoyance. That conversation sparked an idea in Aidan’s mind, and from it, Athlens was born. What began as a project between two friends quickly grew into a team effort. Jimmy Hamlette ‘27 recalls his introduction vividly: “Last November, I walked into the library and saw Jais printing papers for Athlens. I’d seen the name around but didn’t know what it was about. He explained the idea, and asked right there if I wanted to join.” Jimmy’s first responsibility was to connect athletes with photographers, helping the brand expand its recognition. By March, Athlens welcomed a new team member, Nainika Majumdar. Nainika is also a junior at Rutgers Prep, who was brought in
easy. “It’s definitely a challenge,” Aidan admitted. “We can't ask our team to devote all their time, so we ask that they devote what they can, considering school and family always come first.” Fortunately, working within a close-knit group of friends has made communication and collaboration more manageable. Another key factor has been the support from the Rutgers Prep community. This support ranges From alumni such as Bobby Roy, Jais’s father, who provided them mentorship, to teachers such as Dr. Loy and Coach Klipstein, who offered insight and advice. As Aidan says, “We're grateful to be in such an amazing community that supports growth like this with alums and teachers, especially for students here. Everyone here is supportive and interested in what we're doing. And that's all we could ask for.”
The team hopes other students will take advantage of these same opportunities. As Nainika explains, “Don't be afraid to get out there and pitch a new idea, use it as an opportunity to talk to more
to help plan a launch event at Red Bull Stadium, which turned out to be a huge success. Within just a year of its founding, Athlens secured two major partnerships with Iron Peak Sports & Events and the Eastern Hockey League. Looking ahead, the team’s goal is for every athlete in New Jersey to know and use Athlens for their photography and videography needs, eventually expanding beyond the state. As Jimmy puts it, “You would be surprised just how easy it is when you try to do the little things, and just reach out to people, being passionate about what you're doing and what you created.”
Running a business while balancing aspects of life such as schoolwork, sports, and friendships has not been
teachers or to meet new people, or use it as an opportunity to connect with a group of people that is outside your own.”
Athlens is more than just a sports media platform, it is a powerful example of student entrepreneurship. What began with one athlete’s frustration has grown into a thriving business fueled by collaboration, community, and a willingness to take risks. Rutgers Preparatory School has provided not just the space, but also the encouragement for students to innovate. Their story is proof that entrepreneurship does not have to wait until after graduation. Sometimes, it starts with a single conversation after a game and grows into something bigger than anyone imagined.
Nikola Jokić
Photo Credit: NBC News
Jais Roy ‘27, Sarang Khullar ‘27, James “Jimmy” Hamlette ‘27, Nainika Majumdar ‘27, Lucia Heiser ‘27, Aiden Rico ‘27
Photo Credit: Anonymous Athlens Photographer
Top 10 Halloween Movie Recommendations
Alexandra Vu ‘27 & Alefiyah Danish ‘27
As autumn leaves fall and Halloween approaches, many people look for the perfect movie to fit the spooky theme. Down below is a list of our top ten Halloween themed movies, from family friendly to thrilling horrors, that deserve a place on your mustwatch list.
1. Halloween (1978)Micheal Myers returns to his hometown more bloodthirsty than ever. When looking for a classic horror movie with the right amount of gory scenes and jumpscares for halloween night, nothing fits better.
2. Scream (1996) - A masked killer, Ghostface, terrorizes young teenage girl, Sydney Prescott, and her group of friends. This movie is the perfect combination of comedy and horror that’ll make you scream!
3. Corpse Bride (2005)
- After a big misunderstanding, Victor ends up engaged to a corpse, meanwhile his fiancé is courted by the villainous Barkis Bittern. With a heartfelt storyline and unique stop-motion visuals, it’s no wonder this Tim Burton film is on our must watch list.
4. Hocus Pocus (1993) - After moving to Salem, Max Dennison accidentally resurrects three witches and must stop them before Halloween night ends. From zombies to a talking black cat, this family friendly classic is hilarious.
5. Nightmare Before Christmas (1993) - Halloween Town’s very own pumpkin king, Jack Skellington, grows tired of the same old yearly routine. He later stumbles across Christmas Town and plots to take over the holiday. As a childhood classic with a catchy soundtrack, this movie is
perfect for curling up on the couch with a bowl of candy.
6. Addams Family (1991) - Facing a scheming lawyer and a man posing as long lost Uncle Fester, the Addams family must challenge the two in order to keep their home. The creepy, mysterious and spooky Addams family is a unique story with humor for the whole family.
7. Coraline (2009)Coraline Jones, a young girl who discovers a secret door to a seemingly perfect parallel world, slowly uncovers the dark secrets hidden within her house. The intricate stop-motion and stunning visuals, along with the compelling plot, make this movie a top pick for any fall festivity.
8. Beetlejuice (1988)A recently deceased couple hires a ghost named Beetlejuice to scare away the new residents moving into their home, but little do they know, Beetlejuice has his own agenda. This goofy ghost story captures classic childhood memories and is an excellent choice if you’re looking to let out a good laugh.
9. Friday the 13th (1980) - A group of teenage camp counselors try to reopen an old summer camp with a bloody history, but end up becoming the new victims of a mysterious killer. Suspenseful, eerie, and iconic, this movie will have you on the edge of your seat.
10. Hubie Halloween (2020) - Hubie Dubois tries to protect his town from a peculiar threat, despite being mocked by the townspeople. This Adam Sandler comedy is perfect for any Halloween event, guaranteeing laughs and memories.
The Salem Witch Trials were a paranoid period of accusations, violence, and unlawfulness. The trials started in the spring of 1692 when nine-year-old Elizabeth Parris and 11-year-old Abigail Williams started having uncontrollable outbursts of screams, fits, and violent contortions. The local doctor, William Griggs, diagnosed the children with an illness related to witchcraft. Contributing factors of this diagnosis could have been a recent epidemic of smallpox, pre-existing social and religious tensions, and colonist belief in the devil and witchcraft. After the diagnosis, a few other local girls began experiencing the same symptoms and accused others of possessing them. Some of the women included were: Tituba, the Parris’ slave, and beggar Sarah Good. When brought to court, only Tituba confessed, and she accused several others: Martha Corey, a high member of the church, and Sarah Good’s fouryear-old daughter. When the “witches” were tried in court, spectral evidence was not allowed, as people believed witches used invisible shapes to torture victims.
Women were tested for
‘29
witchcraft in various ways. These deadly ordeals likely served no scientific purpose. A few of these tests included: Swim Test - the accused was bound with their thumb tied to their toe, and thrown in a body of water. If they floated, they were considered witches. If not, they were innocent but likely drowned.
The Witch’s Markthe accused was examined for any marks, such as moles, skin tags, or birthmarks. These were known as a “witch’s teat”, where a witch could have fed into the accused.
Prayer Test - if the accused could not recite the Bible by memory, they were considered to be in a pact with the devil. Any hesitation, error or stumbling could also be a reason for witchcraft.
On June 10th, 1692, the first woman accused, Bridget Briggs, was hanged. Along with her, five more people were hanged that July, five more in August, and eight in September. Seven “witches” died in jail, while Giles Corey (Martha’s husband) was pressed to death via stones. In all, over 150 women and children were put into pris-
on for witchcraft.
Later in the year, the support of the trials dwindled, and stopped in early 1693 when May Phipps pardoned and released everyone in prison who were accused of witchcraft. In January 1697, the Massachusetts General Court apologized for their unlawful behavior, and held a day
of fast for the tragedy that occurred. Leading Justice Samuel Sewell also publicly apologized for his role in the trials. It was only in July 2022 when Elizabeth Johnson Jr., whose name was yet to be cleared, was officially exonerated. Today, the legacy of the Salem witch trials endures as a cautionary tale about mass hysteria and fear-driven persecution.
What Does Rutgers Prep Think About Ghosts?
Did you know that almost 20% of Americans claim to have seen a ghost or apparition? Halloween is a holiday known for its scary monsters, some examples being zombies, witches, skeletons, and more. One that has always stood out are ghosts. The debate about whether or not if ghosts are real has been going on for centuries. Some people believe in the spiritual world and supernatural events, while others do not. The believers often create stories about ghosts and ghouls, though many of them have been disproven by science or have an explanation behind them. There are even ghost stories that have occurred on campus. Some teachers (and even some students) claim that Elm Farm is haunted, but whether that is true is up to you. There are also
Siddharth
Ghosh ‘29
some ghost stories that are hard to explain, contributing to the many skeptics of ghosts. Now, have you ever wondered what Rutgers Prep students think about ghosts? With Halloween right around the corner, it’s
the perfect time to ask them in a fun Halloween survey. In the survey, twenty-five Rutgers Prep students were asked three questions about
Halloween. The students were first asked, “What is your favorite Halloween themed monster: zombies, skeletons, witches, or ghosts?” The results showed that 20% of the students said zombies, 32% said skeletons, 8% said witches, and a surprising 40% said that ghosts were their favorite Halloween monster. Lastly, the students were asked if they think ghosts are real. The results were: 56% of the students think ghosts do not exist while 44% think they do exist. Although it was extremely close, the majority of the students think that ghosts are not real. The results show that while many enjoy the idea of ghosts as a spooky Halloween symbol, fewer actually believe in them. Whether they exist or not, they have cemented their place in Halloween tradition.
A Hearing During the Trials
Photo Credit: GettyImages
Ghostface from Scream Photo Credit: Vulture
The Salem Witch Trials Kaitlin Lee
A Ghost
Photo Credit: Etsy
Two Brighton Avenue in Passaic, New Jersey is home to one of the most haunted attractions in the state: the Brighton Asylum. The building was originally part of an industrial complex in the 1940s and housed mentally unstable patients, many of whom were violent and needed to be kept separately from the community for safety. The most dangerous patients stayed in the main building, which is famously known as the Brighton Asylum. The Brighton Asylum is not merely a haunted house, but a terrifying look into New Jersey’s eerie history. It was known for its poor sanitation, overcrowding, and controversial treatments, all of which the patients had to endure. Beneath the complex, tunnels allowed staff to move between buildings and deliver medical supplies without
The 77th Annual Emmy Awards took place on September 14, 2025, featuring the most prominent shows and television from the past year. Popular shows like The Pitt, Adolescence, and Severance received critical acclaim for their success, and emerging and seasoned actors alike graced the stage to accept awards for their work.
A hot topic of discussion was the show Adolescence, which captured the attention of audiences worldwide when it premiered on Netflix in March 2025. Not only unique and captivating in its plot, which follows
Most of you have probably heard of the Loch Ness monster before. Its is described as a large, longnecked, draconic beast said to inhabit Loch Ness, a lake in Scotland. The legend of the Loch Ness monster, or “Nessie”, has been around for over a thousand years, with there even being stone carvings made by Scottish locals depicting a large aquatic creature with flippers. However, the ancient carvings were not the only mentions of the monster. In 1933, the legend
What Haunts Brighton Aslyum?
Shriya Chinthamaneni ‘28 and Zahra Shirley ‘28
being seen. These tunnels kept the public from witnessing what horrors went on inside.
erings, strange experiments, and secret parties circulated for years, and the quarters
patients in the central wing and moved the low-risk patients to Building B, adja-
On the second floor, staff quarters housed nurses, doctors, and other workers. Stories of unusual gath-
the interrogation of a teenage boy after being entangled in the murder of a fellow classmate, the show’s four episodes were each shot in one continuous take, providing the viewer with an immersive experience. Among many other awards, the series is now Emmy-acclaimed as the most outstanding limited series, topping the other shows in this very competitive category. Emerging star Owen Cooper, went viral for his role in Adolescence earlier in the year. On Emmy night, he broke the record as the youngest male to win a Primetime Emmy award, at
earned the nickname “The Bleeding Grounds”. After multiple cases of violent outbreaks, Brighton Asylum isolated its most dangerous
The 77th Emmy Awards Alina Zhu '27
only 15 years old. Altogether, it was a very victorious night for the entire cast as they took home 6 Emmy statuettes, all well-deserved.
More records were broken as The Studio, a new satirical comedy series about the film industry, broke the record for the highest number of awards won in an Emmy cycle by a comedy show. Prevailing in nine categories at the Creative Arts Emmys – a subcategory featuring technical and artistic accomplishments – and four in the Primetime Emmys, the show walked away with 13 awards out of their 23 im-
cent to the Asylum. There have been multiple reports and investigations of patient abuse and mysterious, unexplained deaths occurring
pressive nominations. Riding on this wave of success and positive reviews, the show has been renewed for a second season.
While the Emmys opened many doors for cast and crew alike, one door might be closed for good.
The famous Late Show with Stephen Colbert recently announced its cancellation due to financial reasons, but this didn’t stop Stephen Colbert as he went to claim the show's first Emmy for outstanding talk series.
Overall, one thing is for sure: over the span of its numerous categories, from comedy to drama to talk
The Loch Ness Monster: Fact or Fiction?
gained significant attention when a couple driving on a road claimed to have seen a draconic creature cross the road and disappear into the lake. The occurrence was reported in a Scottish newspaper, with numerous other sightings reported shortly after. In December of that same year, the Daily Mail, a British newspaper known for its foreign reporting, commissioned Marmaduke Wetherell, a hunter, to locate the creature.
Along the lake’s shore, Wetherell claimed to have found large footprints,
Caio Indelli ‘29
which he believed belonged to the beast. However, after closer examination, zoologists from the Natural History Museum determined that the footprints were all faked, likely made with an umbrella stand or ashtray with a hippopotamus leg as the base.
In 1934, English physician Robert Kenneth Wilson claimed to have photographed the creature, capturing its small head and neck. This iconic photonicknamed “The Surgeon’s Photo” - had been printed by the Daily Mail, spark-
in the depths of the Brighton Asylum. The atrocious living conditions, grotesque medical experiments, and staff disappearances resulted in the state permanently closing the facility in 1952. However, it recently reopened in 2011 with around 8,000 visitors annually during the fall season. Today, you can still visit the former asylum, which has been New Jersey’s most visited Halloween destination for around 13 years! It is now a historical haunted house that gets especially popular during Halloween. After being closed for 60 years, decaying and rotting, it has now opened to anyone who dares to walk down the halls where the patients' screams still echo.
show, the magnetic pull of the entertainment industry is undeniable.
ing global interest in the monster. This caused many monster hunters to come to the area in search of the creature. Additionally, several sonar explorations (with the most notable ones being in 1987 and 2003) were made in an attempt to locate Nessie, but all failed. In 1994, it was revealed that “The Surgeon’s Photo” had been faked, with the supposed monster’s head being made out of wood and plastic attached to a toy submarine, and the hoax was simply a revenge attempt by Wetherell, who was furious
at how the Daily Mail had ruined his reputation and wanted to get back at them. Despite the lack of evidence, the legend of the Loch Ness monster remains popular to this day, with its likeness being thought to contribute around $80 million to Scotland’s economy annually. Regardless of whether it is real or merely just a myth, the Loch Ness monster has established its place in history for centuries to come.
The Brighton Aslyum in Present Day Photo Credit: BrightonAsylum
Owen Cooper Receiving his Award | Photo Credit: BaoTuoi
Halloween-Themed Word Search
Jordan Reigrod '27
Comic Strip
Isa Abdur-Rahman '27
The 137th Editorial Board of The Argo
Chief Editors
Jurnee Caldwell ‘26
Jay Chavan ‘26
Raislyn Palmer ‘27
Anna Jane Mathey '27
Associate Editor
Trisha Paul '28
Tech Editor Dev Menon '27
Faculty Advisors
Dr. Morgart
Mx. Stewart
Special Thanks to Dr. Loy, Mrs. Bautista-Burk, and Mr. Ladd
The Argo is the student-run newspaper of Rutgers Preparatory School. The opinions and views expressed within articles are not necessarily representative of the opinions and views held by The Argo or Rutgers Preparatory School.
All articles and student photos herein are copyright © The Argo 2025.
Interested in submitting an article, taking pictures, or drawing graphics? Have a complaint or concern? Notice an inaccurate fact or statement?
Reach us at theargo@rutgersprep.org.
Volume CXXXVII
No. 1
View the Print Issue at Rutgers Preparatory School