• 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
Surrounded by her colleagues from the social science department, Aisha Ahmed proudly displays her “New Teacher of the Year” award. “They did a really good job keeping it a surprise from me and I think its hopefully a testament to what I try to do,” Ahmed said. Photo courtesy of Katy Greiner Babcock.
Sincere Support: Ahmed Named LCPS “New Teacher of the Year”
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
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
When Coach Barry isn’t coaching, he works at his main job as a study hall teacher. He also loves watching movies and is an avid reader. His favorite book is “Nausea” by Jean-Paul Sartre, and his favorite movie is “The Godfather Part II” by Francis Ford Coppola. Photo Courtesy of Ousmane Barry.
Meet Football and Softball Assistant Coach: Ousmane Barry
Standing center stage, senior Ananya Akula conducts the Phoenix Chorale. “[Conducting and teaching] is really fun,” Akula said. “Music education is what I want to do.” On the day of the choir assessment, Akula found out that she received the President’s Music Scholarship – a full ride to the University of Miami Frost School of Music.
Melodies of Emotion: Chorus Performs Pre-Assessment Concert
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
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
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
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
The album cover for “Compliments of Grave Digger Mountain” portrays NBA YoungBoy as a mountain, hinting at the theme of him overcoming his challenges.
My Compliments to NBA YoungBoy for Making His Third Dull Album In a Row
Po must choose a worthy candidate of being the Dragon Warrior as he advances to a higher position in the kung fu hierarchy. The most unexpected candidate ends up being the one that strikes Po’s eyes the most and is trusted to ensure the peace of the people.
Kung Fu Panda Kicks Back Into Theaters
In “eternal sunshine,” Ariana Grande navigates the aftermath of her divorce from Dalton Gomez and the complexities of her new relationship with co-star Ethan Slater in the “Wicked” adaptation, exploring themes of heartbreak, resilience, and self-discovery.
Ariana Grande Shimmers in the Bright Haze of ‘eternal sunshine’
A dark fantasy film, “Damsel” flips the classic trope of ‘knights in shining armor’ saving the distressed princess on its head. Photo courtesy of Netflix.
“Damsel:” A Testament to Women’s Empowerment
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
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.
Arts & Entertainment
He’s Back & He’s Better: Bryson Tiller Releases Self-Titled Album

After four years of experimenting with new styles and figuring out how to tell his story, R&B artist Bryson Tiller released his eponymous...

Artificial Intelligence did not stop evolving when the ChatGPT craze flatlined, and a big scare involving OpenAI’s latest project demonstrates it.
Opinion
The Controversy That Is Artificial Intelligence Development in 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.
Opinion
Superstitions Found To Affect Mental Health

At some point, everyone believes in something that to others may seem dumb. From tossing salt over your shoulder for good luck, to cursing yourself...

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.
Sports
Lightning Strike Phoenix During Baseball/Softball Double Header

While both softball and baseball have similar goals and concepts, including getting to home base and the various positions played, there are...

News
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 • April 12, 2024

On March 16, students and parents of all LCPS high schools gathered in the main gym and cafeteria at Rock Ridge for the fifth annual summer job...

When Coach Barry isn’t coaching, he works at his main job as a study hall teacher. He also loves watching movies and is an avid reader. His favorite book is “Nausea” by Jean-Paul Sartre, and his favorite movie is “The Godfather Part II” by Francis Ford Coppola. Photo Courtesy of Ousmane Barry.
Meet Football and Softball Assistant Coach: Ousmane Barry
Riya Cherukuri, Staff Writer
Standing center stage, senior Ananya Akula conducts the Phoenix Chorale. “[Conducting and teaching] is really fun,” Akula said. “Music education is what I want to do.” On the day of the choir assessment, Akula found out that she received the President’s Music Scholarship – a full ride to the University of Miami Frost School of Music.
Melodies of Emotion: Chorus Performs Pre-Assessment Concert
Diya Chand and Sydney Nguyen
Senior Fatima Qaderi grew into the person she wanted to become when she was younger and continues to work towards growing more confident in using her voice when it matters. “I didnt get treated the way I wanted to be treated, and I realized that it wasnt just them treating me the wrong way, it was me treating me the wrong way,” Qaderi said. “I forced them to like to look at me in a way where Im someone who needs to be respected; they cant just disregard me, they cant just look over me because I have a different opinion, because Im a woman, because Im Afghan, because Im Muslim, or whatever. It just took going through different experiences to figure out how [I wanted to] be heard.” Photo courtesy of Fatima Qaderi.
Fatima Qaderi Defends Against Discrimination
Aarohi Motwani, Editor In Chief
Every year, one cabinet member is selected as the Designated Survivor to ensure the government will remain functioning in case every other member of the line of succession is incapacitated during the State of the Union.
Biden Comes Out Strong at 2024 State of the Union
Shivu Sathe, News Editor
View All
Sports
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 • April 11, 2024

In a tense contest between two highly-ranked teams, on Tuesday, March 14, the Phoenix girls tennis team went up against the Riverside Rams. The...

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
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
Dayanna Anton, James Bowles, and Bella Gerardi
Senior Arshan Shahjahan pushes past a Spartan defender as he dribbles the ball.
A War With the Weather: First Phoenix Draw of the Season
Sruthi Vivek, Bhargav Kuniki, Alexis Cortés, and Riya Cherukuri
View All
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
From the athletes to the academics, student backgrounds shine through in all aspects, highlighting the niche hobbies and lifestyles of the Phoenix student body. Graphic by: Tanishka Enugu and Aarohi Motwani.

Humans of Rock Ridge: Student Profiles

The Blaze on Instagram
Arts & Entertainment
The album cover for “Compliments of Grave Digger Mountain” portrays NBA YoungBoy as a mountain, hinting at the theme of him overcoming his challenges.
My Compliments to NBA YoungBoy for Making His Third Dull Album In a Row
Arnav Mahajan, Staff Writer • April 9, 2024

NBA YoungBoy’s “New New” album is not the best. On March 8, YoungBoy released his first full-length album of the year titled “Compliments...

Po must choose a worthy candidate of being the Dragon Warrior as he advances to a higher position in the kung fu hierarchy. The most unexpected candidate ends up being the one that strikes Po’s eyes the most and is trusted to ensure the peace of the people.
Kung Fu Panda Kicks Back Into Theaters
Sruthi Vivek and Bhargav Kuniki
In “eternal sunshine,” Ariana Grande navigates the aftermath of her divorce from Dalton Gomez and the complexities of her new relationship with co-star Ethan Slater in the “Wicked” adaptation, exploring themes of heartbreak, resilience, and self-discovery.
Ariana Grande Shimmers in the Bright Haze of ‘eternal sunshine’
Ananya Karthik, Arts & Entertainment Editor
View All
Opinion
Trying to make themselves seem as inviting as possible, many students meticulously select photos representative of their personalities and day-to-day lives for Instagram pages dedicated to a universitys incoming freshman class.
Roommate Speed Dating: College in the Digital Age
Tanishka Enugu and Shaila Patel • April 8, 2024

Hi! My name is _____ and I’m from Northern Virginia just outside of Washington D.C. I am 100% committed to _____ and I’m planning on majoring...

Gracing stages, football games, and even the big screen, Taylor Swifts popularity doesn’t seem to be declining anytime soon as she’s been almost everywhere on social media, and just this December, [Swift] won TIME Magazine’s Person of the Year award. This brought along magnificent pictures of Swift, articles praising her, and some controversy between Swifites (Swifts most devoted fans), and other people on whether or not she should have won this award.
Another Swift Win for the 2023 TIME Magazine Person of the Year
Samantha Chang, Staff Writer
Social media is impacting society through positive actions as well as negative ones; It is used for connecting with others and belonging to communities, but sometimes it’s often used incorrectly in cases of false information or negative comments which lead to depression or other mental/physical health issues.
Is Social Media Dangerous To Society?
Rachel Bhardwaj, Staff Writer
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