The award-winning voice of North Cobb High School in Kennesaw, Georgia.

The Chant
The award-winning voice of North Cobb High School in Kennesaw, Georgia.

The Chant
The award-winning voice of North Cobb High School in Kennesaw, Georgia.

The Chant
Elyssa Abbott

Elyssa Abbott, Editor-in-Chief

Elyssa Abbott, a senior in the Magnet program at North Cobb, joined the newspaper to pursue her dream profession of being a journalist. Youngest of 3, Abbott enjoys spending her free time watching movies, listening to music, and hanging out with her best friends. Traveling is a continuing aspiration for her future. She has already crossed some of her dream destinations off her bucket list. With the Magnet Program, Abbott has already traveled to Costa Rica, Australia, New Zealand, and Fiji. She plans on visiting Europe the summer after her senior year and hopes to study abroad in college.

Abbott’s interests include shopping, trying new coffee shops, and journaling. Working out and hiking are two of her favorite activities. On the weekends she volunteers with children at Northstar Church and spends time with her friends and family. After high school, Abbott hopes to pursue journalism, international studies, traveling, and mission trips, as those are the things she is most passionate about.

All content by Elyssa Abbott
One last “article” to my favorite staff

One last “article” to my favorite staff

Elyssa Abbott, Editor-in-chief
May 14, 2021
On Thursday May 7, the graduating class of 2021 gathered once more before their commencement ceremony at the end of the month. Treated with food, activities and a NC towel, the seniors laughed and talked on the field of Emory Sewell Stadium one last time.

NC’s Screen on the Green: Graduates edition

Elyssa Abbott, Editor-in-chief
May 11, 2021
College consists of a time of independence for the first time from parents, most importantly reliance on financial help from parents. Options exist to help college students afford living expenses, such as part-time campus jobs and federal work study programs.

Adulting: How to pay for college

Elyssa Abbott, Editor-in-chief
May 1, 2021
Gus’s offers plentiful side options to go along with their “World Famous fried” chicken. The chicken offers a crispy skin and delicious inside with a heat that grows the more you eat. The spot, a hit with college students in other cities, has already received attention from KSU and NC students.

Gus’s Fried Chicken clucks into Kennesaw

Elyssa Abbott and Lainey Devlin
April 21, 2021
Mayah Bourne chose to receive the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine to protect, not only herself, but her loved ones within her family and friends. The mild side effects for the vaccine outweigh the risk of losing someone she cares about to the vicious virus ripping through the country and world currently. Bourne chose to take a step towards returning to normalcy.

Students reactions to COVID-19 vaccinations

Elyssa Abbott, Editor-in-chief
April 21, 2021
The class of 2019, the last class to celebrate senior spirit week, enjoyed their dress up days. Unfortunately, the class of 2020’s senior week faced struggles due to COVID. Their senior week’s cancellation makes the class of 2021’s senior week even more highly anticipated.

What to wear: senior week edition

Elyssa Abbott and Lainey Devlin
April 14, 2021
Generation Z, an extremely unique generation, acquired spending habits based off of the technology that surrounds them. Unlike previous generations, Gen Z relies on technology and new innovations to guide them towards their next purchase.

Generation Z and their unique spending habits

Elyssa Abbott, Editor-in-chief
April 12, 2021
As seen in the photograph, Jeff Bezos recognizes Matt Moody for his hard work and promotes him from Principal of NC to CEO of Amazon. “This was born for me, I do not understand why I didn’t receive it earlier. Now is better than never and I can’t wait to get my hands on… everything,” said Moody.

NC Principal takes over Amazon

Elyssa Abbott, Editor-in-chief
March 31, 2021
After a surprise visit to Kennesaw, Shaquille O’Neal makes his way to a few popular spots in the area, including Copelands restaurant. His last stop before making the journey home to Orlando included NC, where he presented checks to all of the seniors for college. “I wanted to pay for everyone’s college, even if they drop out and don’t earn a degree. I just got my stimulus and had some extra money to spend. I really like orange too so that’s why I stopped,” said O’Neal. April Fool’s, you fool! XOXO, The Chant

Shaquille O’Neal makes a visit to NC

Elyssa Abbott, Editor-in-Chief
March 31, 2021
With the multitude of pathways available to invest, teenagers can put their money to good use as soon as they turn 18. No matter how small the amount, spending money to receive money in the long run can provide teenagers with a general understanding of investing in the future.

Adulting: Investing for Teens

Elyssa Abbott, Editor-in-chief
March 22, 2021
Writing down a couple of the tasks that you want completed today provides a guideline for the day that lies ahead. Checking off these tasks boosts productivity and will allow for even more productive days in the future. “Even if I just make a to-do list, it makes me feel in control of what I need to have done for school,” said Magnet senior Sophia Green.

How to find serenity in planning

Elyssa Abbott, Editor-in-chief
March 18, 2021
The new drinks permanently added to the Starbucks menu excited coffee lovers with the new, diverse flavor and milk options. The drinks spread over social media platforms and quickly inspired customers to create their own recipes using the new ingredients. As they continue to gain popularity, Starbucks drive thru lines keep growing.

New Starbucks items already sensationalized

Lainey Devlin and Elyssa Abbott
March 9, 2021
We Were Liars by E. Lockhart provides an eventful read as many can relate to the nostalgic summer memories spent with cousins and friends. The shocking twist at the end, although it may break your heart, it satisfies readers with all of the loose ends tied up. Looking for a summer read as the weather warms up? This New York Times bestseller would read perfectly on the beach bathing in the sun, just like the Liars did.

We Were Liars: A book full of lies

Elyssa Abbott, Editor-in-Chief
March 5, 2021
The NC varsity lacrosse team begins training for the tough season ahead by working hard and practicing six days a week. Through their first couple of games, players can gage the competition for the rest of the season and where to improve. “I think the team could work on our unity, especially at practices. We are still working together and getting better at playing as a team,” said senior captain Trenton Nolen.

Warrior lacrosse defeat Wheeler Wildcats in high scoring fashion

Elyssa Abbott, Editor-in-chief
March 1, 2021
With multiple opportunities for expressing love available this upcoming Valentine’s Day, your partner’s love language plays a critical role in what gift they secretly want most. From words of affirmation to physical touch, The Chant covers how to sweep your partner off their feet.

Valentine’s inspiration for each love language

Lainey Devlin and Elyssa Abbott
February 11, 2021
The new Adulting Series by The Chant will guide high school students through the complicated process of becoming an adult, through articles about credit cards, paying for college, and saving money. The first installment highlights the pros and cons of opening a credit card at a young age.

How to adult: Credit cards

Elyssa Abbott, Editor in Chief
February 8, 2021
After finding out that in a few short months Magnet seniors Galaye Seck and Abbey Corley will make the journey to New York City for, at least, the next four years of their lives, both students felt pure joy and excitement for this next chapter. “The moment I found out I was accepted was one of the best feelings of my life. My mom and sister were on my side and it was a day of celebration for the whole family with lots of tears being shed,” said Seck.

College in the Big Apple

Elyssa Abbott, Editor in Chief
February 1, 2021
Why to take the vaccine

Why to take the vaccine

Elyssa Abbott and Lainey Devlin
January 30, 2021
After receiving the incredible opportunity to bake her aunt’s wedding cake, Minard grew her business and added wedding cakes to her list of resume. “My biggest order so far was my Aunt’s wedding cake. It was three tiers and two different flavors. I baked the cake layers a day before the wedding, then assembled and iced the whole cake the morning of the wedding,” said Minard.

Kendall Minard: NC’s Gluten-free Baker

Elyssa Abbott, Editor in Chief
January 21, 2021
NC students enjoy the proximity of Lights of Joy, and carpool with friends to the road front light display with friends while singing their hearts out to holiday favorites. “Lights of Joy is so fun and special because you get to celebrate the holiday season and make memories with people you love and care for,” NC senior Dehlin Lee said.

[Photo] Lights of Joy illuminates Kennesaw 

Amber Roldan, Features Editor
December 9, 2020
The misleading images of fitness 

The misleading images of fitness 

Elyssa Abbott, Editor-In-Chief
November 25, 2020
Class of 2021 and their stolen senior year

Class of 2021 and their stolen senior year

Elyssa Abbott, Editor in Chief
November 25, 2020
The lively atmosphere of Anchor Bar juxtaposed with live entertainment can be enjoyed outside or inside with versatile seating. The restaurant also hopes to expand on the restaurant and allow guests to play cornhole and other activities while dining.

From Buffalo to Kennesaw: Anchor Bar

Elyssa Abbott, Editor-in-Chief
November 17, 2020
Vision boards, a simple way to visualize a future that one would like to attract, all too often can become very materialistic. In this example, a career, relationship, and travel have been manifested. Long-term goals, along with a positive mantra, make manifesting become more realistic and attainable.

The myth of manifesting

Elyssa Abbott, Editor in Chief
November 10, 2020
The variety of drinks that Tiktok users have invented provides a unique taste for every kind of Starbucks consumer. Those who do not enjoy a bitter coffee taste, but would still like caffeine can try the Pumpkin Chai Tea Latte for the perfect medium.

Tiktok Starbucks drinks

Lainey Devlin and Elyssa Abbott
November 6, 2020
The extensive array of dairy milk alternatives allows those who can not drink milk, due to lactose intolerance, a dairy allergy, or noticed a trend with acne related to dairy, an escape from it. Those who can drink dairy milk but choose not to, do so for important reasons, such as managing cholesterol levels or avoiding diseases linked to it.

The rise of alternatives to dairy

Elyssa Abbott, Editor-in-chief
October 23, 2020
Chick-fil-a enthusiasts flocked to their nearest drive-thru in order to try the newest menu items announced on September 14. The items both looked delicious but unfortunately, the chocolate chunk brownie fell short of expectations when the density and bland flavor left customers unsatisfied and wanting more.

Chick-Fil-A new menu items fall short

Elyssa Abbott and Lainey Devlin
October 8, 2020
Despite missing several players and coaches resulting in a loss against the Etowah Eagles, the Warrior lacrosse team gained knowledge and guidance from their unwanted outcome. They now understand where to hone skills and which positions need more drills. Overall, the team worked together, played well, and plan to continue to work harder.

Warriors lacrosse falter to Etowah

Elyssa Abbott, Editor-in-Chief
October 6, 2020
This year, partnering with the North Georgia State Fair, MUST Ministries will collect canned goods at the event. Each fair guest can donate seven non-perishable canned goods and in exchange will receive a free ticket to the 2021 North Georgia State Fair. Throughout the pandemic, MUST Ministries has provided much needed relief to the community by giving out food to those in need.

North Georgia Taste of the Fair

Elyssa Abbott, Editor-in-Chief
September 23, 2020
Each real estate agent on the show Selling Sunset brings their own unique look and drama to the show, making viewers choose sides in the tension. “My favorite character is Christine [Quinn] because her outfits are so different from the other girls and she never holds back in drama,” said senior Sophia Green.

Selling Sunset stuns viewers on Netflix

Elyssa Abbott, Editor in Chief
September 3, 2020
Zac Efron went from singing atop lunch tables in the High School Musical series to milking goats in Puerto Rico while learning and teaching Netflix viewers about sustainability. As Efron ages, his recent endeavor, Down to Earth, highlights his true personality and passions.

Zac Efron’s new chapter: Down to Earth

Elyssa Abbott, Editor-in-Chief
August 27, 2020
Although the current global pandemic does little to relax high school students, the announcement that over 50 colleges waived their SAT/ACT requirements for the fall of 2021 applicants helps students sleep better at night. This adjustment also provokes colleges to begin research if this should become permanent in their application process.

Coronavirus changes college requirements

Elyssa Abbott, Editor-in-chief
April 27, 2020
Working with the Tik Tok queen consists of hard work and high standards, as she demands nothing less than perfection from the NC step team. Charli D’Amelio practices “Renegade” over and over with the team until it looks Tik Tok worthy.

Charli D’Amelio “steps” in

Elyssa Abbott, Editor-in-chief
March 31, 2020
With his brand new logo on his shirt from his latest endeavor, Gordon Ramsay feels excited to whip the NC culinary students into master chefs. “I will not rest until each student cries over their baked chicken parmesan. Perfection is the only thing acceptable in my kitchen,” Ramsay said.

Gordon Ramsay takes over culinary classes

Elyssa Abbott, Editor-in-chief
March 31, 2020
43 years ago, Santa Rosa, California hosted the first major celebration honoring Women’s History Week. This small event transformed into a nationally recognized Women’s History Month and an internationally recognized day to commemorate women in March.

Celebrating women in March

Elyssa Abbott, Editor-in-Chief
March 20, 2020
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp recently received the mission to halt the spread of COVID-19, a new strand of coronavirus, in his state. The toll of confirmed cases reached 146 with one death related to the virus as of Tuesday, March 17. Almost immediately, Kemp implemented press conferences to discuss school closures and testing sites around the state.

COVID-19 comes to Georgia

Elyssa Abbott, Editor-in-Chief
March 18, 2020
Reagan Mullinax prepares to shoot for one of his seven goals during the game against the Dalton Catamounts. The end result of the game made not only Mullinax, but the whole team feel proud of their abilities as they defeated the Catamounts by 13 goals.

Warriors take down the Dalton Catamounts

Elyssa Abbott, Editor-in-chief
March 13, 2020
The energetic atmosphere of the concert radiated an uplifting spirit due to the messages of Rex Orange County’s songs about personal growth. After a breakup, Pony reflects his journey of accepting himself and focusing on his independence, a message that a significant portion of his listeners can easily relate to in their own lives.

Rex Orange County ponies up for Atlanta

Elyssa Abbott, Editor-in-Chief
March 1, 2020
On Wednesday, February 5, Kell High School and the Warrior Varsity lacrosse team played an intense scrimmage with the Longhorns coming out on top. Juniors Walker Goodsite and Trenton Nolen scored heavily contested goals, but unfortunately, in the end, the Longhorns defeated the Warriors.

Warrior lacrosse faces Longhorn loss 

Elyssa Abbott, Editor-in-Chief
February 7, 2020
This beautifully crafted drink contains notes of mint, fruit and green tea along with lemonade and honey to create the perfect “get well soon” drink. Easily made at home, the drink will instantly lift your spirits and help you back on your feet.

Get well soon with these cold remedies

Elyssa Abbott and Lainey Devlin
January 31, 2020
After defeating a tough competitor, Dalton High School, the NC Varsity boys lacrosse team celebrated. Hopefully, this win will happen once again this season with the help of a new coach, Dennis Desanctis. “Coach Descantis brings a knowledge of the game that we have not really had before, which can make our whole team better if we listen and act on his advice,” Goodsite said.

Lacrosse springs into a new season

Elyssa Abbott, Editor-in-Chief
January 28, 2020
After three months of preaching and teaching in Swaziland, NC alumni Maggie O’Bryan carries her memories of helping people from all walks of life with her. She will bring home these memories from Swaziland, Thailand and Nicaragua, and remember them for a lifetime.

Update: World Race

Elyssa Abbott, Editor-in-Chief
January 27, 2020
With students from both NC and Georgia Tech coming together to dance for the kids, they raised over $3,000 that will entirely go to CHOA. Through their dancing and fundraising, new friendships were made between high school and college students as they collectively worked towards helping children in need.

Dancing for the kids

Elyssa Abbott, Editor-in-Chief
January 21, 2020
The act of giving back involves far more than donating a large amount of money; one can always just sit down and write a heartfelt card to their loved ones, an act sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face. Children remember the holidays forever, so instead of memories of spending Christmas in the hospital, they will remember the kind words.

How to give back for Christmas

Elyssa Abbott, Features Editor
December 5, 2019
As the short lunch period comes to an end, students throw out their uneaten food that time did not allow for. The fast-paced lunch proves as just one of the numerous problems that lead to the monstrosity of food waste. Students need an adequate amount of time to consume food to fuel them through the rest of the day, along with decreasing food waste.

The war with food waste

Elyssa Abbott, Features Editor
December 4, 2019
Frozen 2 shows viewers a powerful story of an ice queen struggling to come to terms with her power and her friends working to help the kingdom they all care about deeply. It teaches determination and the importance of doing the right thing even when the choice does not come easy. Most importantly, this new movie inspires bravery and heroism with the help of catchy songs that will play in one’s head repeatedly, no matter your age.

“Show Yourself” to Frozen 2

Elyssa Abbott, Features Editor
November 25, 2019
On Friday, October 25, Alex O’Connor, better known as Rex Orange County, released his second studio album. Pony contained ten songs, covering topics such as struggles with mental health, personal growth and relationship issues. Along with a new album, O’Connor announced via social media that he would travel on a world tour, promoting his newest piece of art. “It’s been a while since he (O’Connor) has released a new album. I love all the songs on the new album, and I hope he keeps releasing more music” NC sophomore Myles Hutcherson said.

Rex Orange County ponies up a new album

Elyssa Abbott and Peyton Stack
October 29, 2019
Similar to other CW series, In The Dark focuses on a murder mystery, alcoholism, and Murphy Mason’s relationship problems, all while highlighting her everyday routine as a blind woman. After she finds her close friend, Tyson, murdered, she becomes involved with criminals and drug dealers.

In The Dark about this new show!! 

Elyssa Abbott, Features Editor
October 23, 2019
The lovely green color of matcha makes the perfect photo opportunity while energizing the body to prepare for the day ahead without the high-energy buzz of coffee drinks.

Matcha=superior

Elyssa Abbott, Features Editor
October 21, 2019
Cardi B’s flamboyant performance gripped fans as people sang and danced along to her most famous songs: “Bartier Cardi”, “Money Bag”, and “Bodak Yellow.” “Cardi B’s performance had fire and strobe lights, so it was very energetic. Everybody was dancing around me. It even ended with fireworks,” junior Skylar Chan said.

Music in the middle of Atlanta

Elyssa Abbott, Features Editor
September 17, 2019
The hardships of preparing for college

The hardships of preparing for college

Elyssa Abbott, Features Editor
September 12, 2019
New AP HuG teacher

New AP HuG teacher

Elyssa Abbott, Features Editor
August 28, 2019
The students excitedly learn with help from their new teaching aids and supplies as they prepare for their newly hopeful future. “Every single child deserves an education, not only in Ghana but in all areas of the world,” Tubo said. As of now, 80 bookbags and hundreds of school supplies and clothing arrive in Ghana.

Giving for Ghana

Elyssa Abbott, Features Editor
August 23, 2019
After leading the NC Magnet program for the past 12 years, Assistant Principal David Stephenson prepares to say farewell to his home away from home. “I will miss the people: teachers, staff, parents, and the kids who often come back to check in and share their successes,” Stephenson said. No doubt his new home at Woodland High School will welcome him with open arms.

Stephenson’s next step

Elyssa Abbott, Reporter, Photographer
May 9, 2019
A season full of growth and positivity, this year the girls on the lacrosse team felt they grew closer to each other and to the game. “My favorite part of lacrosse is definitely all the best friends I have made from playing, and the love for the game. I will miss my teammates and the long bus rides we had together,” senior Mahogani West said.

Girls lacrosse: season recap

Elyssa Abbott, Reporter, Photographer
May 8, 2019
Everyone lies, and everyone knows that. People tend to not even think about their lies, but overlying can actually hold detrimental psychological effects and break down trusted relationships. Lies float around the halls of schools with students lying to teachers and teachers lying to students.

Students lie to teachers and teachers lie to students

Elyssa Abbott, Reporter, Photographer
April 23, 2019
Today, seniors at NC showed their fellow classmates what they hope to become in the future. Students dressed up as different career choices, including teachers, nurses, or even explorers and farmers. Senior Julia Snyder plans on attending Oglethorpe University in the fall to pursue a teaching degree. “I really love kids, and Oglethorpe recently added a teaching program to their school,” Snyder said.

Future careers in sight

Elyssa Abbott, Reporter, Photographer
April 23, 2019
With six yellow cards, NC gave it their all and played rough, which paid off in the end with a win. “It was a really difficult game, but everyone—especially defense—played extremely hard. There were a lot of emotions after the game watching the seniors being escorted down the field; it made the night much better,” sophomore Alyssa Curto said.

Senior night for girls Varsity lacrosse

Elyssa Abbott, Reporter, Photographer
April 19, 2019
Reminiscing on the class of 2017-2018, older siblings left behind large shoes to fill for those younger. “It is stressful to think about living up to expectations that you do not necessarily have control over, but as long as you work hard in whatever you do, I think that a last name does not define you,” sophomore Molly Geraci said.

Living up to the name

Elyssa Abbott, Reporter, Photographer
April 17, 2019
As the race rapidly approaches, Barnhart and O’Bryan ventured to Navarre Beach, Florida to build relationships with the other people they will travel within just four months. The strong friendship between Barnhart and O’Bryan already makes the transition to living out of their backpacks for nine months much easier, along with the budding friendships with the other girls participating.

Around the world in nine months

Elyssa Abbott, Reporter, Photographer
April 14, 2019
Bucky's Back

Bucky’s Back

Haley Kish and Elyssa Abbott
April 1, 2019
Newspaper adviser Rebecca Zavala thoroughly inspected the ingredients of the World’s Finest Chocolate bars as she discusses her plans with administration. “I did not want to do this, but I had to do what I had to do,” Zavala said.

The Chant sells more than just chocolate

Madeline Powers and Elyssa Abbott
March 31, 2019
As Ore practices intensely for upcoming tryouts, she utilizes every obstacle in her path. On an average walk to class, she slides down the railing to increase her efficiency and continue training. “What can I say? Parkour runs through my veins. I did not choose this sport, the sport chose me,” Ore said.

Varisty parkour comes to NC’s railings and walls

Elyssa Abbott, Reporter, Photographer
March 31, 2019
As prom creeps closer and closer, juniors and seniors frantically schedule last-minute appointments for their night to remember. Students make appointments for nails, hair, and makeup to ensure their pictures turn out as best as possible. T-minus three days until the Golden Gala!

Prom, prom, prom!

Elyssa Abbott, Reporter, Photographer
March 19, 2019
Tonight, NC’s Varsity soccer team will play against the Marietta Blue Devils at Marietta at 5:30 p.m. Right midfielder and sophomore Mayah Bourne feels nervous, as this competitive game holds high stakes for playoffs. “We beat North Paulding and they have a good reputation, so we need to beat Marietta to increase our chances for playoffs,” Bourne said.

Come support soccer

Elyssa Abbott, Reporter, Photographer
March 5, 2019
The stars tell me everything

The stars tell me everything

Elyssa Abbott, Reporter, Photographer
March 4, 2019
I saw it in the stars, did you?

I saw it in the stars, did you?

Shannon Rapp and Elyssa Abbott
March 4, 2019
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