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
Mackenzie Blanco

Mackenzie Blanco, Copy Editor

Mackenzie Blanco, a magnet junior, continues her time on The Chant as a copy editor for the 2024-2025 school year. Ever since she could remember, Blanco has admired utilizing her writing skills to release her creative thoughts and steadfast opinions. As her second year on The Chant unfolds, Blanco continues to explore her writing style, the realm of editing and ultimately build up her view of the journalism field, which she aspires to pursue in college. Blanco envisions her junior year to be full of new opportunities, friendships and exceptional advancements for The Chant, while also maintaining a proud stance of her other commitments. Outside of the Pub Office, Blanco can be found spinning her equipment as a member of NC’s Color Guard, on walks with her dog, Chico, going on strenuous hikes, baking yummy treats or spending time at church—alongside her favorite people. She is also a co-leader of Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) and a member of NC’s Bible study club, Collective Hope. Blanco hopes that The Chant will continue to bring her the inspiration to make an impact on the world with her writing. 

Find her on Instagram @mackenzie.blanco3. 

All content by Mackenzie Blanco
As journalists in America thrive, countless reporters around the globe continue to fight for marginalized communities despite the risk to their lives, allowing news coverage to endure for young consumers.

A dangerous pursuit: The risks journalists face in developing countries

Mackenzie Blanco, Copy Editor
December 13, 2024
Each year, Marcus Williams, the West Cobb Area Director of Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA), helps host the Photos with Santa event for the Kennesaw and Acworth communities. This year, the event took place at the Kennesaw Heritage Clubhouse for families with children of all ages with the help of West Cobb FCA schools. Students from various high schools volunteered to guide photo sessions and help with arts and crafts activities.

FCA turns up the holiday spirit at Kennesaw’s Photos with Santa event

Mackenzie Blanco, Copy Editor
December 4, 2024
After canceling his 2022 world tour, singer-songwriter Shawn Mendes comes back to starstruck fame with a new album, “Shawn.” This album — his first in four years — showcases the emotional struggles that Mendes has faced in understanding himself. Now, with 12 new songs, Mendes shines a light on real-world struggles including mental health, grief and sexuality.

“Shawn” Mendes releases new album with “Heavy,” heart-wrenching tunes

Mackenzie Blanco, Copy Editor
November 27, 2024
As new trends rise, old ones fall, leaving room for new styles, vibes — and even relationships. For recent celebrities, a new trend has arrived leading influencers to officially announce their marriage on social media after secretly hiding both their partnerships and their weddings. As celebrities reveal their surprise nuptials through Instagram posts, influencers should receive congratulations for successfully protecting their relationships from social media rather than backlash for their decisions.

Privacy over publicity: The rise of secret weddings

Mackenzie Blanco, Copy Editor
November 27, 2024
Tuesday, October 29, adored bachelorette, Jenn Tran, performed her last dance on Halloween Nightmares night on “Dancing with the Stars” (DWTS). With this devastating news, fans and celebrities alike on DWTS grew shocked by the results of the episode. Tran’s elimination brought about unpleasant feelings and audiences responded with backlash, declaring that National Basketball Association (NBA) star Dwight Howard should have received the elimination.

An unforgettable elimination on season 33 of “Dancing with the Stars”

Mackenzie Blanco, Copy Editor
November 7, 2024
On a chilly competition day, the NC marching band (NCMB) prepared to share their competitive show: “Make Your Mark.” Starting the day strong with rehearsal before the competition, the marching band reviewed important sets within the show to perfect their every move. To cap off the night, NCMB received myriad accolades for its excellence against numerous other bands in Georgia.

NCMB makes their mark at the Southern Invitational Marching Championships 

Mackenzie Blanco, Copy Editor
October 22, 2024
After a thrilling win against the Marietta Blue Devils (1-7) the night before homecoming, the NC varsity football team took the field at Cherokee High School. With energized supporters in the stands, the team brought home another win, contributing to their perfect record. Following their fight against the Cherokee Warriors (4-5), the team will move on to their next game against the Etowah High School Eagles (2-6), October 25.

Warriors v. Warriors: NC strikes again

Mackenzie Blanco and Sophia Lamb
October 21, 2024
Tuesday, October 8, Hillgrove High School held its annual Fields of Faith for all of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) programs within West Cobb schools. With exciting games and food trucks at the event, students prepared to hear from their peers through worship and a student-given message, preaching the Gospel. Fields of Faith brought together the Christian community for fellowship and sports-centered amusement.

Annual FCA Fields of Faith empowers younger generation through NC students

Mackenzie Blanco, Copy Editor
October 12, 2024
Following various threats entailing the possibility of a port strike from the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA), dockworkers began their fight for rightful wages. Beginning in mid-to-late September, the ILA desired a great increase in pay since their contract with the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) recently ended. After a three-day strike, US ports begin to reopen — hoping for a quick recovery time after the strain of goods entering grocery stores and restaurants worldwide.

International Longshoremen’s Association protests unjust wages in three-day strike

Mackenzie Blanco, Copy Editor
October 8, 2024
Beta Club voter drive

Beta Club voter drive

Mackenzie Blanco, Copy Editor
October 8, 2024
With the fall season coming up, “Gilmore Girls” fans prepare to binge-watch their favorite episodes while cozied up in warm blankets. “A Deep-Fried Korean Thanksgiving” follows the Gilmore girls as they travel through town attending four different Thanksgiving feasts — inherently becoming the favorite fall episode among audiences. This episode encapsulates the true essence of community through an adventurous, plot-twist-filled fall day.

Fall favorites: how “A Deep-Fried Korean Thanksgiving” showcases the perfect fall aura

Mackenzie Blanco, Copy Editor
September 26, 2024
After Generation Z (Gen Z) discovered the beauty of digital cameras rescued from the back of their parents’ closets, the usage of these cameras skyrocketed. From the late ‘90s to the early 2000s, the legacy of the digital camera remained as vintage Canons, Sonys and various other models which have recently resurfaced. While the resurgence of the digital camera may not last long, several teens still utilize these cameras to capture memories of their early years, feeling a sense of nostalgia along the way.

Capturing moments on film, ‘90s style

Mackenzie Blanco, Copy Editor
August 29, 2024
Summer 2024 became the season for travel connoisseurs to take on the ancient lands of Rome, Italy. This summer, two NC magnet groups traveled around Europe and purposefully journeyed their way through multiple of Rome’s eternal landmarks. These beauties include the Trevi Fountain, the Roman Catacombs and the Roman Colosseum. Without a doubt, Rome harbors a myriad of the world's history-rich monuments, appealing to the average tourist.

Living the European summer: Italian hotspots for the travel connoisseur

Mackenzie Blanco, Copy Editor
August 27, 2024
As the Olympic games quickly came to a close, Team USA created history and crafted memories in Paris, France. In this Olympic cycle, myriad US athletes won outstanding placements in their corresponding areas including bronze, silver and ultimately, gold medals. Ranging from the youngest member at 15 years old, to multi-Olympic gold medalists, Team USA holds countless of the world's top athletes.

Team USA caps off the 2024 Olympic Games, making history once again

Mackenzie Blanco, Copy Editor
August 23, 2024
The Pantheon, Rome, Italy.

[Photo] Double trouble: Magnet underclassmen take on Europe after annual junior trip

Addie Hill, Lead Page and Media Team Liaison
August 22, 2024
As the new school year rolls around, teachers begin to redecorate their classrooms, start lesson planning and befriend their newly hired coworkers. This year, NC employed three new science teachers: Mr. Juan Mora, Ms. Kira Musgrove and Mr. John Schreiber, all teaching different courses. Each of these teachers exemplified what it meant to inspire excellence during their interviews, which scored them a position at NC.

In their element: NC welcomes three new science teachers

Mackenzie Blanco, Copy Editor
August 9, 2024
Artificial Intelligence (AI) programs advance to take possession of the journalism field, docking human writers.

From print to digital: the incoming threat of AI in journalism

Mackenzie Blanco, Reporter
April 26, 2024
With the end of the NC Winter Guard 2024 season, the SAPA championships take place as the final run for all three NC guards. The concluding run for the shows, titled “Men of Snow,” “Half Acre” and “Dear Vincent…,” mark the last season for a couple of NC seniors heading into college. While championships lead the way for fond memories and great times spent, the NC guards end the season strong and patiently await the upcoming color guard season.

The NC Winter Guard programs spin their way to championships

Mackenzie Blanco, Reporter
April 19, 2024
While NC students traveled to warm beaches during spring break, the magnet freshman class of 2027, took a trip up to the beautiful lands of Spain. Students experienced exhilarating moments which included learning a well-known style of dance in Spain named Flamenco while journeying through the city. Students and chaperones will cherish the memories made throughout the Spanish country alongside their closest friends and peers.

From Kennesaw to Spain: NC magnet freshman take on another international excursion

Mackenzie Blanco, Reporter
April 12, 2024
With the end of the NC Winter Guard 2024 season, the SAPA championships take place as the final run for all three NC guards. The concluding run for the shows, titled “Men of Snow,” “Half Acre” and “Dear Vincent…,” mark the last season for a couple of NC seniors heading into college. While championships lead the way for fond memories and great times spent, the NC guards end the season strong and patiently await the upcoming color guard season.

The NC Winter Guard programs spin their way to championships

Mackenzie Blanco, Reporter
April 8, 2024
April 1, the Jonas Brothers announced their second break up, ultimately because of Joe Jonas’ wish to live closer and spend more time with his two young daughters. Due to his daughters needing to travel between the US and London because of their custody schedule, Joe felt as if the situation seemed unfair to his kids. Joe wanted to remain close to his daughters which in turn led to him moving to London and breaking up the band.

Joe breaks up the JoBros

Mackenzie Blanco, Reporter
April 1, 2024
The NC HoPe club represented the Hispanic community with several members volunteering at McCall Primary’s Read Across America literacy night to read to young learners. The night consisted of fun reads and exciting activities with K-2 graders to kick off National Reading Month. HoPe members engaged in literacy games and read thrilling books to keep vivid imaginations alive in young readers.

NC instills HoPe at McCall Primary during Read Across America week

Mackenzie Blanco, Reporter
March 13, 2024
February 28, the Georgia Department of Education announced the 2024 AP Honors school lists, including 16 traditional high schools throughout Cobb County. NC received the honor award because of the rigorous AP courses students currently take and succeed in. Additionally, NC received honors for multiple categories including the AP STEM Achievement honor and the AP Humanities Achievement honor.

NC receives acknowledgment for exceptional AP programs

Mackenzie Blanco, Reporter
March 13, 2024
Though the NC varsity boy’s baseball team (6-3) won against Marietta High School earlier in the week, the North Cobb Christian Eagles (5-0) took the win on Thursday’s game. After gaining the lead in the second inning, the Eagles continued to add to their score with multiple home runs. The Warriors, albeit discouraged, stood strong and finished the match with motivation for their next game.

Eagles soar over the Warriors during Leap Day game

Addie Hill and Mackenzie Blanco
March 5, 2024
The joy of reading classic literature such as “Pride and Prejudice” or “Little Women” brings audiences into what life looked like for their ancestors with the use of the author's powerful imagery. On the other hand, pivotal literary books such as “Women of the Harlem Renaissance" easily become overlooked. These books carry heavy, relatable topics in society. Now, communities of color read these classics with open minds and reflect on the challenging times their ancestors faced to achieve the successes of the 21st century.

The enduring impact of classic novels

Mackenzie Blanco, Reporter
February 20, 2024
As February 1 marks the start of Black History Month, people worldwide recognize Black history and their remarkable achievements, mainly in the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom. During February, people support Black businesses, visit historical African American sites, learn about prominent Black figures and read Black literature. While people continue to spread awareness about Black history, the efforts of strong Black individuals still linger today, most of which contribute to our everyday lives. In honor of Black History Month, The Chant has composed an article on several inventions made or improved by creative Black innovators.

Beyond boundaries: The legacy of Black inventions

Lauren Lee, Callie Kinsinger, Valentina Gonzalez, Nathaniel Jordan, Callie Kinsinger, Ciara Whimbush, Ivan Mendoza, Jasmyn Mitchell, Mia Kirkwood, Mackenzie Blanco, Addie Hill, Jacey Cuffie, Rosalyn Schwanke, Jameson Johnson, Rose Ordonio, and Jasmina Buranich
February 14, 2024
Dating back to ancient Rome, Valentine’s Day presents traditional festivities including romantic dinners for two and heart-shaped chocolate boxes, but it leaves feelings of loneliness for the single. Thanks to the hit NBC sitcom actor Leslie Knope, women now spend a day celebrating each other and enjoying heart-shaped candy boxes together. February 13th allows ladies to forget about their husbands or boyfriends for the day and spend time with the ones who empower them the most.

Kicking it breakfast style: Galentine’s Day edition

Mackenzie Blanco, Reporter
February 13, 2024
Throughout history, art has evolved and new styles have emerged to form famous masterpieces known by countless people—the “Mona Lisa,” “Starry Night” and “The Guernica.” Artists who adored the hobby influenced how humanity perceives art and the artwork displayed in countless homes around the globe. With art as an outlet for numerous people, it serves as a way for artists to capture their reality and display their thoughts and feelings on a platform.

Behind the canvas: the history of the art world

Mackenzie Blanco, Reporter
January 26, 2024
Visiting a national park or enjoying a stroll around a neighborhood not only brings rise to a peaceful state of mind but also leads to health benefits such as lower anxiety levels for the weary. Spending time in nature allows individuals to interact with their communities and stand in awe of the beauty in the greenery all around. Nature creates a sense of connection between an individual and the Earth while contributing to emotional feelings and physical movement.

The vitality of human-to-nature connection

Mackenzie Blanco, Reporter
January 22, 2024
During the midst of Kendall Vincent’s senior year, doctors diagnosed him with B-cell Lymphoma. To show support, his childhood best friends shaved their heads and organized a Strikeout Cancer polar plunge on New Year's Day alongside the NC community to raise money for Vincent’s treatments. While the fundraiser continues, people around the globe raised nearly $5,000 for Vincent’s cause.

The plunge that strikes out cancer

Mackenzie Blanco, Reporter
January 10, 2024
Walt Disney World in Lake Buena Vista, Florida, captures classic holiday traditions through its multitude of festive celebrations. All four Disney parks host these events, including Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, a yearly tradition in Disney’s Magic Kingdom. Disney magic continues to spread all around the world to multiple other Disney park locations such as in Hong Kong, Paris and Shanghai.

The magic of Walt Disney’s Christmas extravaganzas

Mackenzie Blanco, Reporter
December 12, 2023
As the world evolves, humans grow susceptible to catching diseases, prompting scientists to explore preventative measures. Researchers began experimenting on animals because animal testing became easier than testing on humans. Scientists acquired the ability to discover the negative consequences of newly developed cures and preventatives on an individual's health. Luckily, 21st-century technology allows scientists to discover alternatives to animal testing to save countless dogs, cats and rabbits.

From family pets to lab rats: the harsh reality of consumer goods

Mackenzie Blanco, Reporter
December 12, 2023
Since the rise in popularity of the American movie industry, women have played important roles behind the scenes and truly helped shape Hollywood. Now, females continue the fight to receive recognition throughout their careers in the film industry despite the setbacks they face. Powerful females who impacted the industry throughout their careers include Ruth Handler, Greta Gerwig, Margot Robbie, Reese Witherspoon and countless others who desired to change the levels of representation for women one film at a time.

The astonishing works of womanhood in film

Mackenzie Blanco, Reporter
December 11, 2023
Approximately 56 million years ago, the first primate emerged on Earth, initiating an evolutionary chain of events that led to the development of the human brain. Over time, the complexities of the human brain created neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders, necessitating the establishment of rehabilitation and treatment centers. Charles Darwin’s theory of natural selection, with concepts like “survival of the fittest,” further illuminated these evolutionary processes in the 19th century.

The evolutionary intellect of the homo sapien

Mackenzie Blanco, Reporter
December 11, 2023
Approximately 56 million years ago, the first primate emerged on Earth, initiating an evolutionary chain of events that led to the development of the human brain. Over time, the complexities of the human brain created neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders, necessitating the establishment of rehabilitation and treatment centers. Charles Darwin’s theory of natural selection, with concepts like “survival of the fittest,” further illuminated these evolutionary processes in the 19th century.

NC partners with the Rally Foundation each year to raise awareness for children battling cancer. NC’s Rally Club inspires students to volunteer at Friday night football games and inspires local restaurants to collect donations for childhood cancer research which funds the Rally Foundation. Through the generosity of local communities and NC students, Rally Club fundraised over $1600 during the 2023-2024 school year; the club donated 93 cents of each dollar they raised to the Rally Foundation.

Rally students impact the future of childhood cancer research

Mackenzie Blanco, Reporter
November 13, 2023
Fall has evolved into the perfect season to explore the outdoors, due to the breezy cool air and crisp weather to enjoy family activities. The origins of the nostalgic memories formed during September, October and November serve as the foundation of the well-known fall activities such as the heap of pumpkin patches. Patches now include hayrides and corn mazes which have become popular familial attractions.

Embracing fall history through ongoing family activities

Mackenzie Blanco, Reporter
November 3, 2023
Kevin, Joe and Nick Jonas embarked on their North America Tour which began in the spring of 2023. The tour details all of their accomplishments since the beginning of the Jonas Brothers’s pop rock band in 2005. Each concert highlights songs from their five albums including newer songs from “The Album” which became produced specifically for their tour, coincidentally named “The Tour.”

Jonas Brothers spread their wings on their North American tour

Mackenzie Blanco, Reporter
October 27, 2023
The National Art Honors Society continues to intrigue new students who hold a strong connection to art. Students who participate in NAHS deepen their desires to chase after the field of art in college through the events they partake in. This club inspires students to work together with their peers to create alluring works of art that showcase their talents. Each student holds their own strengths which leads the club to countless achievements.

National Art Honor Society students leave mark on NC

Mackenzie Blanco, Reporter
October 13, 2023
After the tragic explosions of the Fukushima nuclear power plant in 2011, Japan began the process of releasing the toxic water into the Pacific Ocean August 24 and will continue to discharge the water in increments over the next 30 years. Countries such as China and South Korea near the Pacific Ocean have enforced a ban on seafood imports for fear of contamination. Japan received backlash from neighboring countries who believed the release would do greater harm than benefit the environment and human health.

Fukushima’s water worries: waves of controversy

Mackenzie Blanco, Reporter
October 6, 2023
The role of pets in an owner's life creates joyous and unforgettable moments. The needs and wants of dogs create a lifetime of exciting memories as they grow and mature into the adored furry friends in family households. Especially through tough times, dogs provide comfort and relief at the end of the day. “Pets are always there to make you happy. When you've had a bad day, someone happily greets you at the door,” magnet sophomore Justina Stewart said.

The power of pets

Mackenzie Blanco, Reporter
October 6, 2023
Recycling creates a brighter future if it becomes a habit for everyone. It exhibits how humans can work together to provide cleaner spaces for the future. Promoting eco-friendly products including reusable bags or bottles changes how people see today's generation and impacts the use of Earth's natural resources.

Position vs. perspective: recycling

Mackenzie Blanco, reporter
September 8, 2023
“Blue Beetle” impacts the film industry with its third iteration of the superhero. The film showcases Jamie Reyes and his family through the twists and turns of becoming a new superhero. Moments of laughter added the perfect touch to the movie that became unforgettable. “Blue Beetle” will continue to inspire the generations to come through the representation that provides justice to the Latino community.

The new iteration of “Blue Beetle” shines light on Latino heritage

Mackenzie Blanco, Reporter
August 29, 2023
NC Warriors jump into the ‘23 cross-country season with great dedication and excitement after weeks of practice. August 19, the team competed against each other in group-based costumes to see who would become the fastest runner on the team. The team ended the day with popsicles and a mini award ceremony to celebrate the top four runners and the best group costume.

An exciting start to the ‘23 cross-country season

Mackenzie Blanco, Reporter
August 25, 2023
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