• Important Dates -->
  • 4/20: United Spring Fling
  • 4/27-5/4: RRPA's 'Frozen'
  • 4/23: NEHS Open Mic Night
  • 5/1: Senior Sports Signing
  • 5/3: Decision Day & Military Signing Day
  • 5/9: 'May I Serve' Day
The Student News Site of Rock Ridge High School

THE BLAZE
Students dance the night away on the floor as the music blasts in a “Vegas-inspired” ballroom, decorated with casino-themed adornments.
Prom: A Sinless Night in Sin City
From the Israel-Hamas War (left) to abortion rights (right), social issues have become the source of protest across the U.S. and world. Throughout it all, Rosie the Riveter (center), originally created as part of WWII campaign to recruit women in defense industries, has remained an icon of working-class women. Graphic by Sydney Nguyen with edited images via Flickr. (left to right) Palestine solidarity protest by Hossam el-Hamalawy under CC BY 2.0, We Can Do It! by Thomas Cizauskas under CC BY-NC-SA 2.0, and Roe v Wade OVERTURNED: Protest to defend US Abortion Rights (Melb) by Matt Hrkac under CC BY 2.0.
May is Women’s Health Month: 8 Things to Know About Women’s Health and More
Sophomore Ryan Hart, juniors Wardah Islam and Hannah Tyson, senior Mariah Waters, and the rest of the ensemble circle around junior Kaylie Rivers, who plays Anna, after the song “Colder by the Minute.”
Rock Ridge Performing Arts Takes the Crown for “Frozen”
The Young Adult Literature Class targets students who love reading but don’t want to have some of the heavier English assignments attached to the coursework. Students are meant to have fun and enjoy the discussions and books they are working to read.
Launching Into the New Year With an All-New English Elective
Senior Ananya Akula explains the Rock Ridge Sings electives to the eighth graders at the Club Expo. Rising freshmen have the opportunity to join the all-female Cantus Avem choir or the all-male Voces Virilis choir.
Future Phoenix Soar Into High School
Rock Ridge Alumni Works to Outshine Skin Cancer One Stitch at a Time
Phoenix Profiles: Humans of Rock Ridge
Phoenix Profiles: Humans of Rock Ridge
LCPS has experimented with the schedule in the past, leading to much controversy. Students and staff are left with mixed feelings regarding this years schedule change.
The New Schedule: the Positive, the Negative, and the Neutral
Volume V, Issue II: Winter 2022
Volume V, Issue II: Winter 2022
Return to The Rock
Return to The Rock
The U.S. Capitol on the morning of President Bidens Inauguration.
Road To The Presidency
A distorted image of an I Voted sticker from Loudoun County. (Photo courtesy of Katy Greiner)
What’s A Rumor You’ve Heard About The Election?
The general election, and final day to vote, will take place on Nov. 3. In Virginia, polls will be open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.
What To Expect On Decision Day: Ins and Outs Of Following A Major Election
President Donald Trump delivers the State of the Union address at the U.S. Capitol on Feb. 5, 2019. (White House/Shaelah Craighead)
Trump Agrees on New Spending Bill; Promises an Emergency Declaration
Junior Lola Aguilar spikes the ball to the other team in a match at her volleyball club, Loudoun Elite. Photo courtesy of Lola Aguilar.
Lola Aguilar Bumps, Sets, and Spikes Her Way to Victory
Senior Kyle Woody and sophomore Riya Cheruki pitch for their teams. The game had many ups and downs for both the opponent and the Phoenix, but in the end, the Lightning were able to secure the win for both their softball and baseball teams.
Lightning Strike Phoenix During Baseball/Softball Double Header
Freshman Leeyu Assefa returns a powerful serve in her scrimmage match. “It’s definitely an experience, sometimes it can be a lot seeing people who are more talented and really skilled when you’re first starting off,” freshman and Assefa’s teammate Skylar Helms said.
Cross-District Deuces: Phoenix Falter to Rams
The Phoenix set up for the next play as the Patriots gain possession of the ball.
Phoenix Girls Lacrosse Takes on the Patriots in a Hard Fought Game
With unwavering concentration, sophomore Sathvik Mathi positions himself on the tennis court, eyes fixed on the fluorescent yellow ball, as he prepares to strike. His grip tightens around the handle of his racket as he gets ready to swing. With a swift and powerful motion, he connects with the ball, sending it hurtling toward his opponents side of the court.
Phoenix Boys Tennis Trample Over Spartans
As the cross country season comes to an end, team members managed to qualify for districts. Although it was the first time the boys made it to districts, senior Ayush Marwaha still treated the meet like any other. “The atmosphere has always been crazy at the meet,” Marwaha said. “The adrenaline rush is always insane, but I feel like Ive gotten used to it. Before every meet, I always tell myself to try and be calm.”
Cross Country Races Towards Districts
A four-year member of the program, senior Austin Fisher searches for an opening in hopes of securing a crucial first down for the Phoenix. An elite receiver and linebacker, Fisher has consistently made an impact not only on offense and defense, but also off the field.
Senior Night Sparks Phoenix Win Over Atoms
Held up by a group of cheerleaders, flyer sophomore Leyu Yonas poses as part of a stunt, also supported by flyer junior Shayne Mitchell behind her. (Left) Prior to the pink out football game on Oct. 13, the athletes practiced in the aux gym from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. (Right) On Oct. 19, the cheerleaders competed in their District Championships at Woodgrove High School. “We definitely put all our effort on the mat [at Districts], and it showed,” Mitchell said. Left: Photo by Nadia Shirr. Right: Photo by Steve Prakope via Victor O’Neill Studios.
From Practice to Performance and Beyond: Cheer Season Recap
Sophomore Xavier Smith (6), the Phoenix quarterback, runs the ball as his teammates help hold up the defense. “My [offensive] line collapses, so I just [have to run], and its a good way to get first downs because [Tuscarora’s] defense was really good,” Smith said.
Phoenix Face Loss, Falling Victim to Friday the 13
The Phoenix football team runs out onto the field to take on the Loudoun Valley Vikings for the Homecoming football game, concluding a week of fun and games for students.
Spirit Week Ends with a Final Play Against Vikings
The team celebrates their win against the Titans in a huddle around star player of the night, Eryn Chemoiwa, congratulating her on her accomplishments.
Free Throws and Four-Point Plays: A New Phoenix Rises to the Challenge
Phoenix cheerleaders complete a chant at a home basketball game. “Smooth and easy thats what we do,” senior cheer captain Reagan Carper said.
From Friday Night Lights to Bright Gym Lights
As the referee throws the ball up for the tip-off, freshman Simone Diby leaps towards the ball to get it in Phoenix possession. Diby is a new member of the Phoenix girls basketball team, and despite it being a change, she finds it enjoyable. “It’s definitely a different experience if you’ve never played on a team, [but] I think it’s still fun.”
Phoenix Take Down the Titans
Freshman defenseman Brooks Furtek (44) cross-checks a Seahawk in a race to get the puck.
Pride/Phoenix Stir Up the Hornets/Seahawks Nest
Students rush onto the court to celebrate with the team after the buzzer beater three-pointer made by junior William Beck. “Honestly, I thought the game was over but then the clock stopped and my heart stopped, junior Mihir Peta said. “I was like, there’s no way this happened.”
Sinking a Last Shot on Senior Night: Phoenix Parade Over the Pride
Senior Kyle Woody and sophomore Riya Cheruki pitch for their teams. The game had many ups and downs for both the opponent and the Phoenix, but in the end, the Lightning were able to secure the win for both their softball and baseball teams.
Lightning Strike Phoenix During Baseball/Softball Double Header
Freshman Leeyu Assefa returns a powerful serve in her scrimmage match. “It’s definitely an experience, sometimes it can be a lot seeing people who are more talented and really skilled when you’re first starting off,” freshman and Assefa’s teammate Skylar Helms said.
Cross-District Deuces: Phoenix Falter to Rams
The Phoenix set up for the next play as the Patriots gain possession of the ball.
Phoenix Girls Lacrosse Takes on the Patriots in a Hard Fought Game
With unwavering concentration, sophomore Sathvik Mathi positions himself on the tennis court, eyes fixed on the fluorescent yellow ball, as he prepares to strike. His grip tightens around the handle of his racket as he gets ready to swing. With a swift and powerful motion, he connects with the ball, sending it hurtling toward his opponents side of the court.
Phoenix Boys Tennis Trample Over Spartans
With the energy and effort the Bolts were bringing to the game, the Phoenix had to step up and match them to make it through their first game of the season. Many of the girls on the team, including freshman Nazly Rostom, have been playing soccer since their childhood and have grown a love for the sport as a result. “It was fun to see how we actually played in a [real] game,” Rostom said. “Even though the outcome was not what we were hoping for, I’m still happy we got to play together.”
Phoenix Stand Strong Against the Lightning’s Thunder
The album cover of “We Still Don’t Trust You” features Metro Boomin standing next to Future. The album cover hints at the theme of money, due to the extensive jewelry the rappers wear. Album cover via Freebandz.
Metro Boomin’s New Album is Boomin’ with Undeserved Hate
As Woody is kicked out by his own people in the forest because of his behavior, he is forced to learn about the power of teamwork. For this, he travels to Camp Woo Hoo for experiences that will change his point of view. Photo courtesy of Universal Picture Home Entertainment.
Woody The Woodpecker’s Newest Adventure: Camp
“Might Delete Later” struggles to impress due to Cole’s empty lyrics and lack of individuality. Photo courtesy of Interscope Records.
J. Cole’s New Album ‘Might Delete Later’ Should Be Deleted Right Now
Siwa’s new song is a completely different genre when compared to her first song, “Boomerang,” and many are against the genre switch.
Boomerangs May Come Back, But Jojo Siwa’s Career Won’t
Tiller released his fourth album as a self-titled album to show R&B enthusiasts that his run isn’t over, and that he’s starting a brand-new chapter in his music career.
He’s Back & He’s Better: Bryson Tiller Releases Self-Titled Album
Artificial Intelligence did not stop evolving when the ChatGPT craze flatlined, and a big scare involving OpenAI’s latest project demonstrates it.
The Controversy That Is Artificial Intelligence Development in 2024
From Friday the 13th being an unlucky day to knocking twice on wood, everyone has their own beliefs and superstitions, and some are held more strongly than others.
Superstitions Found To Affect Mental Health
Many companies often ask customers to round up at the register, but whether or not to do so can be a difficult decision for uninformed shoppers.
Rounding up: Right or Wrong?
Gift-giving is a way for a person to show their love and admiration through something other than words, physical touch, quality time, etc. It gives people a reason to do something special for someone, and it can be prominent all year round, not only for special occasions.
The Art of Gift Giving
Alabama recently implemented a new form of execution: nitrogen-induced hypoxia. This is the newest form of execution since 1982 when lethal injections were first used; the execution has caused controversy among advocates against the death penalty and health professionals.
Death to the Death Penalty
At the U.S. Air National Guard stand, two guardswoman talk to interested students and parents about participation and college programs offered. Other divisions of the military, like the U.S. Army, Navy and Air Force attended the event as well, spreading information about their various scholarships and military programs.
Making Connections and Seeking Opportunities: Over 1000 Students Attend the Annual Summer Job Fair
SPED Dean Jesse Hudson fist bumps sophomore Keira Bacas as she steps out of the school bus to begin her first day of school on Aug. 24. Teachers and students were excited to return back to school for Rock Ridges 10th year and were looking forward to starting the school year with new projects.
Welcome Back, Phoenix!
Class of 2023: 23 Questions with Jack Capobianco
Meet RRHS: Vaishnavi Raghunandan
The Unity
The Unity
At the U.S. Air National Guard stand, two guardswoman talk to interested students and parents about participation and college programs offered. Other divisions of the military, like the U.S. Army, Navy and Air Force attended the event as well, spreading information about their various scholarships and military programs.
Making Connections and Seeking Opportunities: Over 1000 Students Attend the Annual Summer Job Fair
SPED Dean Jesse Hudson fist bumps sophomore Keira Bacas as she steps out of the school bus to begin her first day of school on Aug. 24. Teachers and students were excited to return back to school for Rock Ridges 10th year and were looking forward to starting the school year with new projects.
Welcome Back, Phoenix!
Class of 2023: 23 Questions with Jack Capobianco
Meet RRHS: Vaishnavi Raghunandan
Book Bans: Silencing the Voices of Now
Book Bans: Silencing the Voices of Now
The Student News Site of Rock Ridge High School

THE BLAZE
The Student News Site of Rock Ridge High School

THE BLAZE
The Latest from The Blaze
Students dance the night away on the floor as the music blasts in a “Vegas-inspired” ballroom, decorated with casino-themed adornments.
News
Prom: A Sinless Night in Sin City

On Friday, April 12, the Student Council Association (SCA) hosted its annual prom at the Washington Dulles Marriott Hotel and chose the theme...

The album cover of “We Still Don’t Trust You” features Metro Boomin standing next to Future. The album cover hints at the theme of money, due to the extensive jewelry the rappers wear. Album cover via Freebandz.
Arts & Entertainment
Metro Boomin’s New Album is Boomin’ with Undeserved Hate

Metro Boomin’s new album with Future is an “Amazing” collaboration. On April 12, Metro Boomin released his second collaborative album with...

As Woody is kicked out by his own people in the forest because of his behavior, he is forced to learn about the power of teamwork. For this, he travels to Camp Woo Hoo for experiences that will change his point of view. Photo courtesy of Universal Picture Home Entertainment.
Arts & Entertainment
Woody The Woodpecker’s Newest Adventure: Camp

Released on April 12, “Woody Woodpecker Goes to Camp” features the cartoon character “Woody Woodpecker,” who made his debut in the self-titled...

The Young Adult Literature Class targets students who love reading but don’t want to have some of the heavier English assignments attached to the coursework. Students are meant to have fun and enjoy the discussions and books they are working to read.
News
Launching Into the New Year With an All-New English Elective

New year, new course. Next year, the English department is adding to their cozy family with a new elective, Young Adult Literature. The class,...

News
Senior Ananya Akula explains the Rock Ridge Sings electives to the eighth graders at the Club Expo. Rising freshmen have the opportunity to join the all-female Cantus Avem choir or the all-male Voces Virilis choir.
Future Phoenix Soar Into High School
Ananya Karthik, Dayanna Anton, and Melissa Waas • April 29, 2024

On April 17, Rock Ridge held its annual Future Phoenix event, where rising ninth graders from Stone Hill Middle School got a sneak peek into...

Rock Ridge Performing Arts cast of “Frozen” brings the energy while performing a sneak peek of their song “Fixer-Upper.”
Phoenix spring into the end of the year with a final Pep Rally
Rachel Adams, Bella Gerardi, and Maddie Nyman
Hostess and English teacher Jessica Berg engages the audience while leading the Summit. Before the event took place, Berg was working hard to organize, contact, and piece together the inner workings of the event, as many big names, scholars, and guests were attending the much-anticipated event.
Women’s Rights Activists Rise Above at the “Rise To” Summit
Nidhi Manchala and Lucian Tiller
Debaters Nitya Matcha and Rayna Budigelli discuss the next move for their plans to go about the second round of debates. “Our first two rounds were pretty interesting, it is very inspirational to see the types of thinking that people undergo trying to make their debate cases,” Matcha said.
Rock Ridge Debaters Sweep VHSL Regional Competition
Nidhi Manchala, Lucian Tiller, and Hylay Assefa
At the U.S. Air National Guard stand, two guardswoman talk to interested students and parents about participation and college programs offered. Other divisions of the military, like the U.S. Army, Navy and Air Force attended the event as well, spreading information about their various scholarships and military programs.
Making Connections and Seeking Opportunities: Over 1000 Students Attend the Annual Summer Job Fair
Melissa Waas and Rachel Bhardwaj
View All
Sports
Junior Lola Aguilar spikes the ball to the other team in a match at her volleyball club, Loudoun Elite. Photo courtesy of Lola Aguilar.
Lola Aguilar Bumps, Sets, and Spikes Her Way to Victory
Aarohi Motwani and Ananya Karthik • April 28, 2024

Junior Lola Aguilar’s volleyball journey has been nothing short of a spike in success — from her early days in Charlestown to her dedicated...

Senior Kyle Woody and sophomore Riya Cheruki pitch for their teams. The game had many ups and downs for both the opponent and the Phoenix, but in the end, the Lightning were able to secure the win for both their softball and baseball teams.
Lightning Strike Phoenix During Baseball/Softball Double Header
Aline Gonzalez, Maddie Nyman, and Nadia Shirr
Freshman Leeyu Assefa returns a powerful serve in her scrimmage match. “It’s definitely an experience, sometimes it can be a lot seeing people who are more talented and really skilled when you’re first starting off,” freshman and Assefa’s teammate Skylar Helms said.
Cross-District Deuces: Phoenix Falter to Rams
Tanishka Enugu, Sam Cho, and Danielle Kimpson Kaley
The Phoenix set up for the next play as the Patriots gain possession of the ball.
Phoenix Girls Lacrosse Takes on the Patriots in a Hard Fought Game
Rachel Adams, Rodrigue Gomado, and Samantha Chang
With unwavering concentration, sophomore Sathvik Mathi positions himself on the tennis court, eyes fixed on the fluorescent yellow ball, as he prepares to strike. His grip tightens around the handle of his racket as he gets ready to swing. With a swift and powerful motion, he connects with the ball, sending it hurtling toward his opponents side of the court.
Phoenix Boys Tennis Trample Over Spartans
Arnav Mahajan and Rachel Bhardwaj
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Trending Stories
1
The symbolism and writing in “The Heaven and Earth Grocery Store” is note-worthy. However, the excessive amount of characters and details on their backstory is a drag to get through. The marbles, a consistent symbol of interconnectedness throughout the book, is also its downfall due to the excessive number of characters.

“The Heaven and Earth Grocery Store” is Not Heaven on Earth

2
Alabama recently implemented a new form of execution: nitrogen-induced hypoxia. This is the newest form of execution since 1982 when lethal injections were first used; the execution has caused controversy among advocates against the death penalty and health professionals.

Death to the Death Penalty

3
The cover of “Coming Home” shows Usher’s back with the chain of a cross, as well as him holding a peach. This hints at his journey making it to the title of “King of R&B” through determination and with the help of God. Photo Courtesy of Gamma Records.

Usher’s New Album is Definitely a ‘Bop’

4
Rodrigo showcases her stellar lyrics and 2000s-inspired production in “GUTS.”

“GUTS:” Olivia Rodrigo’s Newest Self-Loathing Record is a Means of Catharsis

5
Junior Lola Aguilar spikes the ball to the other team in a match at her volleyball club, Loudoun Elite. Photo courtesy of Lola Aguilar.

Lola Aguilar Bumps, Sets, and Spikes Her Way to Victory

The Blaze on Instagram
Arts & Entertainment
“Might Delete Later” struggles to impress due to Cole’s empty lyrics and lack of individuality. Photo courtesy of Interscope Records.
J. Cole’s New Album ‘Might Delete Later’ Should Be Deleted Right Now
Riya Cherukuri, Staff Writer • May 1, 2024

On April 5,  J. Cole released his newest album, “Might Delete Later.” This album followed the release of Metro Boomin and Future’s “Like...

Siwa’s new song is a completely different genre when compared to her first song, “Boomerang,” and many are against the genre switch.
Boomerangs May Come Back, But Jojo Siwa’s Career Won’t
Ria Athreya, Staff Writer
Tiller released his fourth album as a self-titled album to show R&B enthusiasts that his run isn’t over, and that he’s starting a brand-new chapter in his music career.
He’s Back & He’s Better: Bryson Tiller Releases Self-Titled Album
Sruthi Vivek and Bhargav Kuniki
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Opinion
Artificial Intelligence did not stop evolving when the ChatGPT craze flatlined, and a big scare involving OpenAI’s latest project demonstrates it.
The Controversy That Is Artificial Intelligence Development in 2024
Leif Labianca, Staff Writer • April 20, 2024

In the past few years, Artificial Intelligence has stepped up its game dramatically, and as a result, gained tremendous traction amongst the...

From Friday the 13th being an unlucky day to knocking twice on wood, everyone has their own beliefs and superstitions, and some are held more strongly than others.
Superstitions Found To Affect Mental Health
Samantha Chang and Aline Gonzalez
Gift-giving is a way for a person to show their love and admiration through something other than words, physical touch, quality time, etc. It gives people a reason to do something special for someone, and it can be prominent all year round, not only for special occasions.
The Art of Gift Giving
Sitwat Mian, Graphic Editor
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