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  • Nov 7-10: Winter Tryouts
  • Nov 8: Holiday - Election Day
  • Nov 18: Students vs Staff Volleyball Game
  • Nov 23-25: Thanksgiving Break
The Student News Site of Rock Ridge High School

THE BLAZE
The MSA celebrates at the Final Iftar on May 1, 2022 in the school cafeteria with friends and family.
MSA: Student-Run Club for Muslim Students and Allies
Student Council Association (SCA) members decorate a large arch for the Homecoming Dance before students arrive. The front entrance, gym, and cafeteria were transformed into city themed attractions on the morning of Oct. 22.
Homecoming: SCA sets the Scene for a Night in the Cities
Students were able to self-nominate for Homecoming court and were then voted on by their respective grade level to be a 2022 homecoming court finalist. Two overall winners were then selected by the school and crowned at the Homecoming dance and football game.
The Pressure and Excitement of Running For Homecoming Court
Junior Ibrahim Rostom stands happily with a thumbs up after the trial with the youth Egyptian National Team. He had just played well and was pleased with his performance.
Ibrahim Rostom Makes the Youth Egyptian National Team
Senior Julia Freeman, sophomore Kaylie Rivers, and junior Bella Pilgreen teach senior Colby Lower how to read rhythm.
Helping Others Through Sound
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
A collage of all of the students profiled. (All photos courtesty of the profiled students.)
Humans of Rock Ridge: Pandemic Profiles
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
During halftime of the homecoming football game, senior Jack Capobianco wins homecoming royalty and is officially crowned by junior Maggie Miller. “I wasn’t expecting [winning homecoming royalty] at all,” Capobianco said. “I was very surprised but very excited.”
Phoenix Celebrate Homecoming With a Victory
Leaving the season behind, sophomore Aiden Patel walks along a golf course holding all his golf equipment. Patel, although not yet a senior, is already thinking about his future in golf. “Hopefully, [I’ll continue golf] in college, and if I can go pro, a 100%,” Patel said, “But if I cant, Ill probably just find a job.”
Putt-ing Another Season Away: Golf Season Recap
The Phoenix prepare to face the Huskies in a new play. “[We could improve by] focusing on trying to get people healthy, running the ball, and getting people work at different positions just in case [of] injuries,” Qadri said.
Huskies Put Out Phoenix Fire at Pink Out Game
Senior Karis Adnan sets off the point by serving the ball to the opposing team. The Phoenix kept the game lighthearted as they continued to lead. “We have been on a really good winning streak, so that was really fun,” Adnan said.
Phoenix Dominate the Patriots on Senior Night
Senior and co-captain Harshroop Singh attempts to take the ball from the Titan opponent. “I think it’s crazy to see that I’ve learned a new sport just through the field hockey program here at Rock Ridge,” Singh said. “I’ve definitely seen a lot of improvement compared to previous years.”
Despite Loss to Titans, Field Hockey Celebrates Seasoned Seniors
During halftime of the homecoming football game, senior Jack Capobianco wins homecoming royalty and is officially crowned by junior Maggie Miller. “I wasn’t expecting [winning homecoming royalty] at all,” Capobianco said. “I was very surprised but very excited.”
Phoenix Celebrate Homecoming With a Victory
Leaving the season behind, sophomore Aiden Patel walks along a golf course holding all his golf equipment. Patel, although not yet a senior, is already thinking about his future in golf. “Hopefully, [I’ll continue golf] in college, and if I can go pro, a 100%,” Patel said, “But if I cant, Ill probably just find a job.”
Putt-ing Another Season Away: Golf Season Recap
The Phoenix prepare to face the Huskies in a new play. “[We could improve by] focusing on trying to get people healthy, running the ball, and getting people work at different positions just in case [of] injuries,” Qadri said.
Huskies Put Out Phoenix Fire at Pink Out Game
Senior Karis Adnan sets off the point by serving the ball to the opposing team. The Phoenix kept the game lighthearted as they continued to lead. “We have been on a really good winning streak, so that was really fun,” Adnan said.
Phoenix Dominate the Patriots on Senior Night
Senior and co-captain Harshroop Singh attempts to take the ball from the Titan opponent. “I think it’s crazy to see that I’ve learned a new sport just through the field hockey program here at Rock Ridge,” Singh said. “I’ve definitely seen a lot of improvement compared to previous years.”
Despite Loss to Titans, Field Hockey Celebrates Seasoned Seniors
Christian Djan (22) looks to pass while being double teamed in a Jan.6 game against the Dominion Titans.
The Heart of the Phoenix
Junior Ilias Cholakis stands on the podium at states on Feb. 18 holding his fourth place medal. ¨I did pretty well -- improved from last year, which was my goal,¨ Cholakis said.
Phoenix Wrestling Dominates At Districts and Soars to States
Varsitys junior Nick Canfield (23) looks around to find a teammate to throw the ball to as a Cougar plays tight defense on him. “We did a good job on defense communicating, that was something that we were really trying to work on this past game,” Canfield said.
Phoenix Pounce on the Cougars
On Jan. 24, Phoenix cheerleaders sophomore Isha Vepa, junior Tia Carter, freshman Almendra Del Aguila, and junior Prerana Telugu perform a cheer in unison at the basketball game against Tuscarora. “We almost got hit by a ball like two [or] three times, we just kinda stepped back and kept watching. We literally laughed about it afterwards -- it’s always fun to support with these wild things happening.” said Telugu.
Winter Cheer: The Highs and Lows
Senior Alexa Veneros (12) blocks a Captains player (5) from scoring, while Veneros’ teammates remain open, ready to receive the ball.
Phoenix Girls Basketball Falls to the Captains on Senior Night
Junior Maddy Springer attempts to swing at the coming softball, allowing her team to advance to further bases on the field. “We should go in expecting to win and we need to have high hopes and good spirits,” sophomore Emma Spielman said.
Phoenix Clash with Lightridge Lightning in Final Softball Game
Senior Ryan Buermeyer (22), mid-swing, aims to hit the ball and allow sophomore Dylan Neach (21) and freshman Nikhil Midda (9) to make it home from second and third bases respectively.
Phoenix Swing a Win for the Season
Boys Varsity Soccer started their season strong with their first win in 2 years against the Stone Bridge Bulldogs. Senior Prince Amarante scored 2 goals, giving the Phoenix the win 2-1.
Closing of a Chapter, Prince Hangs Up His Crown
The track and field team warms up together with laps at practice after school.
Seniors Race to the Finish Line
Seniors Atri Bathula and Advik Pasuparthi hustle their way through the field.
Head to Head: Lacrosse Double Header Showcases Phoenix Seniors
Despite certain restrictions that limited how they put on the show, the DE Theater class put on an entertaining, mind-twisting, and emotional act. They managed to get creative with their props, making them multifunctional. Audience member senior Viv Bali enjoyed this aspect of the show. “They were able to use everything they had to the fullest extent possible,” Bali said.
Rock Ridge Performing Arts Returns to Explore “The Trench”
The initial launch of Overwatch 2 was rough. Due to a DDoS attack on their servers, Blizzard Entertainment left players in queues stretching up to 40,000 eager participants just to reach the home screen.
Overwatch 2: Sequel or Major Update?
After directing “When I Rise Up” by Donald Moore, the second song of the concert, Assistant Choir Director Terrian Jennings faces the audience to present the choir and take a bow. Jennings came in to help Choir Director Jordan Markwood prepare for the concert while he was away for meetings related to his Teacher of the Year award. “Once I was able to open up for the kids, they were able to open up for me on stage, and that’s been my favorite part [of preparing for the concert],” Jennings said.
Phoenix Choir “Rises Up” for Fall Concert
Inspired by the controversial and legendary life of Marilyn Monroe, the movie “Blonde” hit streaming platform Netflix on Sept. 16
Marilyn Monroe’s Inspiring Legacy Hits the Silver Screen in “Blonde”
Based on true events, “The Woman King” is centered around African female warriors called the Agoji ,who strengthen their powerful skills in order to protect their Kingdom of Dahomey in the 1800s.
Family vs. Career: Generational Issues Brought to Light by “The Woman King”
There are many ways to donate, sign petitions, and stay informed on the situation in Iran to help the protesters from where you are right now. (Image on graphic from courtesy of Creative Commons).
Helping Iranians From the Other Side of the World
Age plays a big part in how kids and teens feel about Halloween. When kids are younger, they tend to have more fun, but does that also mean that they get scared easier? While the next generation may love horror films, how this might affect kids at younger ages may keep both kids and parents up on Halloween night.
The Horrors Of Halloween
A series of changes -- such as the constant switching of hosts after Chris Harrisons departure, Matt James, someone not previously a contestant of the franchise, becoming “The Bachelor,” and Clare Crawley being the shortest lead in “Bachelorette” history -- have been road bumps for the ABC series. These abrupt shifts put into perspective the questionable future of the franchise, and how many more adjustments are in store for it.
Death of a Bachelor (Franchise)
Queen Elizabeth II photographed during her coronation on June 2, 1953, marking the start of her 70 year reign. “Throughout this memorable day, I have been uplifted and sustained by the knowledge that your thoughts and prayers are with me,” the Queen said in her speech, according to royal.uk.
The Queen’s Death and the Shoes To Fill
From extra fees to pulled content, shows have gotten harder to find.
Connecting to Streaming Services: An Error Has Occurred
The Student News Site of Rock Ridge High School

THE BLAZE
The Student News Site of Rock Ridge High School

THE BLAZE
Amelia Chen

Amelia Chen, Editor-in-Chief

Amelia is a senior and this is her third year on staff. She is SCA executive president, does rhythmic gymnastics, and loves blazing for "The Blaze." In her free time, Amelia likes listening to music, hanging out with friends, and cooking. Amelia can't wait to make her last year her best one! #SeniorSlay

All content by Amelia Chen
The board discussed renaming 19 schools, a new internship offered by elementary schools, and new calendar options for 2023-2024 school year.

[Photo] LCPS Schools Renamed; New Computer Science Internship for Students

October 31, 2022
HUMANS OF ROCK RIDGE

[Photo] Phoenix Profiles: Humans of Rock Ridge

October 25, 2022
Senior Basit Qadri (11) tackles the Railroader opponent while sophomore DJ Harvey (10) runs to catch the ball.

Phoenix Suffer Tough Loss to the Railroaders

October 15, 2022
Senior and co-captain Harshroop Singh attempts to take the ball from the Titan opponent. “I think it’s crazy to see that I’ve learned a new sport just through the field hockey program here at Rock Ridge,” Singh said. “I’ve definitely seen a lot of improvement compared to previous years.”

Despite Loss to Titans, Field Hockey Celebrates Seasoned Seniors

October 18, 2022
Boys Varsity Soccer started their season strong with their first win in 2 years against the Stone Bridge Bulldogs. Senior Prince Amarante scored 2 goals, giving the Phoenix the win 2-1.

Closing of a Chapter, Prince Hangs Up His Crown

June 10, 2022
On Tuesday, May 24, the LCPS School Board met for their 2nd Tuesday of the month meeting and discussed a variety of topics including gun violence; the first Friday in June was proposed to be celebrated as national gun violence awareness day in LCPS schools.

[Photo] School Board Honors National Merit Scholars, Recognizes Gun Violence and LGBTQ+ Awareness Month

June 8, 2022
Senior Anya Ambarish waits for her opponent to return the ball during her doubles match. Ambarish is the captain of the team this year and plans to continue playing club tennis at the University of Central Florida next year. “I might even walk on to their Varsity team,” Ambarish said.

Battle of the Dulles District: Phoenix Girls Tennis Wins Regular Season Championship

May 24, 2022
On May 10, the school board held their second Tuesday meeting, continuing to discuss improvements to student welfare and allocating funds to fiscal year 22-23 budget items.

[Photo] School Board Provides Updates on Budget Plan, New Schools and Expansion of “Literacy for All” Programs

May 24, 2022
On April 5, the school board discussed the reassignment of staff and administrators throughout Loudoun County Public Schools, and announced the soon-to-open town halls to discuss their Strategic Plan with the community. The Strategic Plan outlines procedures that look to improve student and staff quality of life, absolve issues, and alleviate concerns brought forth from the public.

[Photo] Loudoun School Board Opens Town Hall Meetings, Moves Eid to May 2, Updates Student Mental Health Procedures

May 16, 2022
Freshman Kaushik Muskari prepares to hit the ball in his singles match. “I think I could’ve done a lot better,” Muskari said, “and of course there’s always a lot of room to improve, knowing that Im still learning.”

Phoenix Boys Tennis Ace the Huskies

May 4, 2022
On March 8, the LCPS school board held their second Tuesday meeting, discussing new CDC guidelines and the revision of the county equity statement.

[Photo] School Board Reviews New CDC Mitigation Recommendations; Recognizes Rock Ridge Accomplishments

March 31, 2022
Senior Aidie Bell (3) defends the ball from Falcon Taylor Price. “I think I did pretty well. [I just wish] I had scored,” Bell said.

The Battle of the Birds

April 7, 2022
During the boys varsity match, Senior Prince Amarante (13) dribbled the ball toward the goal. “Personally, I think I was able to run it behind and stretch them, creating an attacking threat,” Amarante said. Amarante is eager for the start of his senior season. “I’m looking forward to just enjoying it with my friends and having a great time,” he said. “I want to just make the best out of it and make lifelong memories.”

Double Trouble: Soccer Double Header Ends in Victory for Girls; Loss for Boys

March 22, 2022
Sophomore Daniel Okoye (34) and freshman Trey Fitch (3) attempt to block Lightridge player Rishab Kantikanani (44). Okoye was able to block four Lightning shots in the game.

The Final “Battle of the Ridges”

February 18, 2022
Junior Deric Gomado (1) dribbles through the Lightning defense and makes a slam dunk, adding two points to the Phoenix’s score. “I was a little nervous [for our first home double header game], but no [that did not affect me],” Gomado said.

The Battle of the Ridges

February 3, 2022
As the parent social came to an end, Matt Brooks, an art therapist from the Resilience Network, looks over to PTSO President Tiffany Ahmed as she makes her final closing statements.

Mental Health and Money: PTSO Meeting and Parent Social

February 2, 2022
During public comment, Loudoun County parents and students voiced their concerns over the School Board’s recent actions to deal with the sexual assault case.

Loudoun County School Board Discusses Current Affairs, Title IX, School Lunch

November 16, 2021
On Aug 24th in the blistering 90 degree heat, seniors paint their parking spots accompanied by their friends and family.

Class of 2022 Claims their Spots on the Lot

November 1, 2021
Michelle Federico coaches the varsity field hockey team in the Phoenix v. Patriots match on Oct. 5 at the Rock. As head coach, she wants more girls to be interested in a sport like field hockey. “[Field hockey has] always been my favorite sport,” Federico said, “It’s unique, it’s hardcore. People dont realize how difficult it is.”

Despite Field Hockey Loss Against the Parkview Patriots, Field Hockey Coach Federico is Optimistic for the Phoenix

October 26, 2021
Nina Lal, 11

Nina Lal, 11

September 17, 2021
Ava Loh, 9

Ava Loh, 9

November 9, 2020
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