• Important Dates -->
  • Jan. 20: End of Semester 1
  • Jan. 23: Lunar New Year - No School
  • Jan. 24: Teacher Workday
  • End of Jan. - Mid Feb.: Course Selection
  • Feb. 2: PTSO Meeting
  • Feb. 3: Broadway Desserts
  • Feb. 10: Phoenix Pageant
  • Feb. 16: Orchestra Pre-Assessment Concert
  • Feb. 20: Presidents' Day - No School
  • Feb. 20 - 24: Student Press Freedom Week
  • Feb. 23: 3rd Quarter Senior Breakfast
The Student News Site of Rock Ridge High School

THE BLAZE
Stress leaves a major impact on students and may leave them stuck in place, not knowing what to do or how to handle it.
Behind the Scenes of Stress
Seated at her desk, history and yearbook Michelle Menna meticulously edits a yearbook spread with her trustee black pen. Balancing her time between teaching AP U.S. history and yearbook, serving as the SCA sponsor, and leading history teachers as the department chair, Menna is often found typing away on her computer or standing in front of her enthusiastic students. The SCA has been an integral part of Menna’s life since 2014, when she first began planning elaborate school-wide events and sharing numerous meetings with administration; now, Menna has decided to take a step down from SCA to dedicate more time towards her personal life.
Humble Headship: History Teacher Michelle Menna Prepares to Step Down After 8 Years as SCA Sponsor
Rock Ridge Choir poses after performing for the residents of Waltonwood senior center.
Bringing Our Spirits Back One Song at a Time
The dreaded flu season has arrived. The coughing, the aches, the sneezing -- its all back, and more annoying than ever.
Flu Season Hits Rock Ridge as Students Finish Up the Quarter
Fresh from placing 4th on March 5, 2022 at SLC (State Leadership Conference) in the Project Management Career Development category, Emily Lam (right) poses with her friend, senior Nina Lal (left), in celebration of both of their successes.
The Face of DECA
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
Senior Mehma Kathuria keeps the ball away from the Bolt defender. “Our game was together, we were playing with a new play,” Kathuria said. “[The Team’s] chemistry builds and gets better every game.”
The Battle of Ridges Results in Both Wins and Losses
Senior Basit Qadri tries to find another player to pass off the ball to his teammate without the Tigers stealing it.
Phoenix Varsity Basketball Takes Down the Tigers
At the Jan. 9 home double header against Briar Woods, senior Nick Canfield keeps an eye on the ball and defends the basket during the boys game. During the girls game, sophomore Kalen Walker prepares to take a free throw shot.
Double Headers Bring 2 Star Players Forward
Junior Cora Bowen dribbles the ball towards the basket, following a turnover that led to Phoenix possession.
Phoenix Take Flight Against the Falcons in a Double Header Matchup
Senior Basit Qadri sprints down the court, weaving through defenders as he looks for an open teammate.
Phoenix Battle the Pride During First Double Header of the New Year
Senior Ethan Strine gets in position for the next play. “Even our juniors, sophomores, our younger guys, it really felt like all of our last games, even though they have next year and the year after,” Strine said. “It was just a team that we were all a part of. This whole season was very memorable for all of us.”
Seniors Appreciate Last Moments at Their Final Home Game
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 Mehma Kathuria keeps the ball away from the Bolt defender. “Our game was together, we were playing with a new play,” Kathuria said. “[The Team’s] chemistry builds and gets better every game.”
The Battle of Ridges Results in Both Wins and Losses
Senior Basit Qadri tries to find another player to pass off the ball to his teammate without the Tigers stealing it.
Phoenix Varsity Basketball Takes Down the Tigers
At the Jan. 9 home double header against Briar Woods, senior Nick Canfield keeps an eye on the ball and defends the basket during the boys game. During the girls game, sophomore Kalen Walker prepares to take a free throw shot.
Double Headers Bring 2 Star Players Forward
Junior Cora Bowen dribbles the ball towards the basket, following a turnover that led to Phoenix possession.
Phoenix Take Flight Against the Falcons in a Double Header Matchup
Senior Basit Qadri sprints down the court, weaving through defenders as he looks for an open teammate.
Phoenix Battle the Pride During First Double Header of the New Year
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
Winter Drumline director Patrick O’Rourke instructs members of the ensemble as they prepare to play one of their pieces. This was the first year that the Winter Drumline program was active, and O’Rourke hoped that they would reach a high standard of performance over time. “There’s lots of programs in other high schools, and we’re hoping to get to that level,” O’Rourke said.
One Line, One Sound
Eleven years after the last book in the “Maze Runner” series came to a close, James Dashner continues the series with his new book “The Maze Cutter.”
Peace Before Collapse
“Back 2 Life” by Thaiboy Digital was released on Nov. 18, 2022, under his record label YEAR0001. This project features two of the three members of the artist collective, Drain Gang. It also includes fellow Swedish rapper Yung Lean, who is a member of SBE.
Swedish Icon Thaiboy Digital is Finally Back (2 Life)
“God Of War Ragnarök” has blown the expectations of fans and critics out of the water, landing the “Best Narrative” award among others during the Game Awards 2022.
“God Of War Ragnarök:” The Perfect Sequel
To kick off the new year, Blumhouse released their first horror/thriller film of 2023. The audience found “M3gan” to be a sensational masterpiece with a score of 95% on Rotten Tomatoes.
“M3gan” Has Gone Mad
As someone who practices spirituality, it is important to be aware of your well being. Auras help with knowing how your physical body connects emotionally.
The Significance of Auras
During the 2018 MTV Movie and TV Awards, businesswoman and socialite Kim Kardashian wore a new hairstyle, cornrows, drawing controversy and criticism from some of her followers. “I actually did that look because North said she wanted braids and asked if I would do them with her. So we braided her hair and then we braided my hair,” Kardashian said to Bustle.
Should Certain Hairstyles Be Gatekept?
Doctors are held to expectations that are beyond human capability. While most crumble from the stress, some can take advantage of their power over patients and abuse it.
Trust Your Doctor — or Don’t
Students find history teacher Katharina Felts’ quiet space to be very productive because of the time available to students. The room has been available to students during activity block since the beginning of the 2022-2023 school year.
I’m at “Quiet Space” Right Now
Cell phones can be a great tool and help student interaction, but incorporating them into the classroom can lead to distraction and interfere with students’ learning.
Cell Phones in School: Distraction or Interaction?
Meet RRHS: Vaishnavi Raghunandan
The Unity
The Unity
Media by the Minute
Media by the Minute
Book Bans: Silencing the Voices of Now
Book Bans: Silencing the Voices of Now
The Sound Of The Game
The Sound Of The Game
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
Manika Porchezhian

Manika Porchezhian, A&E Section Editor

Manika Porchezian is one of many returning seniors on "The Blaze" staff. As a second-year staff member, serving as our Arts and Entertainment Editor, Manika plans to focus heavily on her contribution to "The Blaze." Manika hopes to continue working hard in several endeavors such as creating and editing for "The Blaze," completing college applications, and consuming all forms of entertainment. Manika thoroughly enjoys her position as she can be the first to get details on the newest albums, movies, trailers, and more. As she departs from Rock Ridge, Manika strives to leave a lasting legacy within our Arts and Entertainment category by shining a light on its ability to convey deep and meaningful messages through a unique lens.

All content by Manika Porchezhian
Based in the mystical, make-believe world of Paldea, “Pokémon Scarlet and Violet” lets players explore different storylines alongside their pokémon.

Pokémon Scarlet and Violet: A Modernization of the Franchise

January 25, 2023
Freshman Nila Divakar, freshman Hasini Kasuganti, senior Sneha Nekkanty, sophomore Rishab Goel, and sophomore Jaden Thomas play their flutes during the first band concert of the year. The winter concert was Thomas’s first time as a first chair. “I worked really hard, and I was rewarded,” Thomas said.

The ‘Phoenix’ and ‘Stingrays’ Start the Holiday Celebration

January 8, 2023
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”

November 14, 2022
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

October 21, 2022
From extra fees to pulled content, shows have gotten harder to find.

Connecting to Streaming Services: An Error Has Occurred

October 11, 2022
After volunteering to participate in the “Hungry Hungry Hippos” inspired pep rally game, freshmen Conner Bultema and David Lassissi attempt to collect the most balls in their laundry basket while competing against four other duos.

Freshmen Get the “Scoop”

September 21, 2022
Junior Sneha Nekkanty, freshman Arjun Alagappa, and junior Joanne Ma play the flutes in Ralph Vaughan William’s fast-paced “English Folk Song Suite.” “We did well blending with each other during this concert,” Nekkanty said. “Our intonation was also better [compared to] the beginning of the year.”

The Final Band Concert of the Year Bids Seniors Farewell

June 6, 2022
Senior Pranay Yella slow dances with his girlfriend, Independence High School senior Ishaanvi Saini, as “A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri plays.

Prom: A Glamorous Gala

June 6, 2022
Sophomore Sriya Yalamanchili, throws the ball in preparation for a smashing serve to start off the rally for another point. “My individual performances during my matches this season have been going well,” Yalamanchili said. “I was always trying to play my best.”

Phoenix Emerge Victorious After Battle With the Titans

May 24, 2022
Although the criminal masterminds were largely hated on in the beginning of the film, “The Bad Guys” implements the concept of “everybody deserves a second chance” to create an entertaining journey that the viewers can follow along with.

“The Bad Guys:” The Big Bad Wolf Likes Being Called a Good Boy

May 24, 2022
While “The Adam Project” is a hilariously entertaining sci-fi film, it also finds a way to connect with viewers through the topics of loss, bullying, and betrayal.

“The Adam Project:” Back to the…Past?

April 21, 2022
The in-person RSEF event for finalists was hosted by Rock Ridge this year in the library. Winners within their respective categories were announced prior to this event through Google Meet judging.

Rock Ridge Hosts Regional Science and Engineering Fair

April 1, 2022
Although “Marry Me” could be improved, it did well representing the gender bias female celebrities face when it comes to issues such as divorce—a representation that was modeled after Jennifer Lopez’s personal experience.

“Marry Me:” Even Jennifer Lopez Couldn’t Save This

March 14, 2022
On Jan. 11, the school board met to discuss the rising COVID-19 cases within the county and how LCPS is addressing the surge using newly-released CDC guidelines.

LCPS School Board Works to Remain Open Through Omicron Surge

February 8, 2022
Although the movie wasn’t executed well as a whole, “The 355” provides a fresh take on the film industry— a group of diverse, independent women fighting to save the world.

“The 355:” A Shamefully Stale Spy Story

February 5, 2022
With candy canes twisted in her hair for Candy Cane Day, freshman Ginny Mcgee listened as the SCA provided updates on the spirit points during her lunch block.

Students Warm Up for Break with Winter Spirit Week

February 4, 2022
Putting a twist on a childhood classic, the “Clifford the Big Red Dog” live-action film adaption brings back Emily Elizabeth and Clifford for another adventure.

“Clifford the Big Red Dog:” A Blast From The Past

February 2, 2022
The Phoenix and Captains ready themselves for the next play after stoppage from the referee. “I got my first touchdown on friday and it was pretty nice; it was the first one of the season, you know, and Im still looking to get more,” junior Da’sean Mack said.

Loudoun County Captains Capture Phoenix Pink Out Game 45-6

November 16, 2021
A display in the foreign language hallway celebrates National Hispanic Heritage Month. Included in the display were books related to Hispanic heritage as well as examples of Hispanic foods and prominent figures accompanying descriptions. The library also celebrated the occasion by displaying books and a decorated window that said “leer,” which translates to “to read” in Spanish.

National Hispanic Heritage Month Celebrated with Displays and Cultural Foods

November 16, 2021
Casie Peng, 11

Casie Peng, 11

September 17, 2021
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THE BLAZE

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