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The Student News Site of Ankeny High School

The Talon
Senate File 175 emphasizes the humanity of the unborn child constructing a focus on prenatal human development and pointing out that development starts after fertilization. The bill utilizes AI to showcase what development may look like in the early stages. The image on the right is what Canva Magic Media AI said an unborn baby looks like at 4 weeks. Graphic created by Lydia Gerety using Canva.
Iowa Legislature passes a bill to showcase students the ‘humanity’ of the unborn
April 29, 2025
Members of the Mental Health Club hosted an event during school. Published with permission from Will Harms.
Breaking the silence
April 2, 2025
Recent legislation state and nationwide has been pushing to eliminate transgender athletes. Created by Grady Andersen using Canva.
Gender identity vs. athletic performance: dissecting the transgender athlete ban
March 26, 2025
Created by Chloe Macke using Canva.
Reading Rights: The impact of recently proposed bills on libraries
March 14, 2025
Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird signed onto lawsuit Texas v. Becerra which states that section 504 is unconstitutional. “I wish I could look at it impartially, just as this really fascinating constitutional phenomenon that didn't have any potential behind it to harm other people or even harm myself, but I really can't do that,” University of Iowa professor and licensed attorney Brett Johnson said. Photo by Lydia Gerety
Iowa families concerned for their children’s equal access to education
March 8, 2025
Join hosts Nolan and Blake for one last episode as they discuss recent drops, concerts, and news in the Hip-Hop space. Design made by Nolan McNulty using Canva. 
Now Playing…
May 20, 2025
“I would definitely be a completely different person, because I found my voice. You'll see me in the hallways, and I talk to people, and I like to ask people questions. I'm not scared to volunteer for things. And before I was involved in anything music-related, I was dead silent. I just didn't talk to people. I just kind of kept my head down and kept walking.” Lyles said. “And now I'm the person who always is saying, “hey, have a great day,’ things like that. So it's given me the gift to find myself, and help other people find themselves.” Created by Sylvia Bartlett using Canva.
Major impact in a minor key
May 12, 2025
“Thunderbolts*” is now playing in a theater near you. The film runs at two hours and six minutes, and is rated PG-13. Poster courtesy of Marvel Studios and Walt Disney Studios.
How “Thunderbolts*” brings Marvel back to its promising glory days | REVIEW
May 2, 2025
"Marvel Rivals" launched its second season on Apr.11. Promotional art by Netease Games and Marvel.
“Marvel Rivals”: Season Two Launch review
April 18, 2025
WrestleMania 41 takes place on April 19th to April 20th across a 2-night extravaganza. WrestleMania is compared to the scale of the SuperBowl for wrestling fans. Made by Ryan Cox using Canva
WrestleMania: A Cultural Powerbomb
April 18, 2025
“Thunderbolts*” is now playing in a theater near you. The film runs at two hours and six minutes, and is rated PG-13. Poster courtesy of Marvel Studios and Walt Disney Studios.
How “Thunderbolts*” brings Marvel back to its promising glory days | REVIEW
May 2, 2025
“A Minecraft Movie” is now playing in a theater near you. The film is rated PG and runs at an hour and 41 minutes. Poster from Warner Bros. Pictures and Legendary Entertainment.
Why “A Minecraft Movie” blocked itself from success | REVIEW
April 4, 2025
Poster for “Mickey 17” courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures. The R-rated film is now playing in a theater near you, and runs at two hours and 17 minutes.
“Mickey 17”: Sci-fi meets political drama
March 7, 2025
The Monkey is now playing in a theater near you. The film runs at one hour and 38 minutes and is rated R. Movie poster from Neon Cinema.
How “The Monkey” blended horror and comedy in a fun way
February 21, 2025
Poster for Captain America: Brave New World. The film runs at one hour and 59 minutes, and is rated PG-13. Now playing in a theater near you. Poster courtesy of Marvel Studios.
Why “Captain America: Brave New World” proved it can be brave without being new | REVIEW
February 14, 2025
Join hosts Nolan and Blake for one last episode as they discuss recent drops, concerts, and news in the Hip-Hop space. Design made by Nolan McNulty using Canva. 
Now Playing…
May 20, 2025
Cover of “MUSIC” by Playboi Carti which dropped on March 14th, 2025 with a runtime of 1 hour and 29 minutes distributed by AWGE and Interscope Records.
Playboi Carti’s “MUSIC” Album Review
April 4, 2025
Made by Olivia Luna using Canva
Increasing elitism within concerts
April 4, 2025
Created by Brogan Smith using Canva, The graphic displays a representation of music and audio being continuously recycled, a technique that has been famously used throughout music history.
The recycling of music
March 6, 2025
On February 9th, Kendrick Lamar took the center stage during the halftime show of the Super Bowl, and made a statement to the 133.5 million people that watched. Created by Ryan Cox using Canva. Created by Ryan Cox using Canva.
SZA, Serena, Samuel, Kendrick: A breakdown of this year’s legendary Super Bowl halftime performance
February 20, 2025
Barrio Barrito Bar located 1510 N Ankeny Blvd, Suite 102, Ankeny, IA 50023 Photo By Caden McGlin
Barrio Burrito Bar
May 28, 2025
Second edition of The Talon editorial, design made using Canva by River Phillips.
Talon Editorial: Critique of Modern Media
May 23, 2025
In the newest column by the Talon Staff, reporters show their appreciation to some of their favorite teachers in Ankeny High School! Design by Nolan McNulty using Canva.
Talon appreciates teachers
May 9, 2025
“It's just the lack of desire to do the work that's been given to you when you have so many things ahead of you. It's just like it doesn't matter.” Senior Mia Koka said. Created by Sylvia Bartlett using Canva.
So close, but so far
May 5, 2025
“Thunderbolts*” is now playing in a theater near you. The film runs at two hours and six minutes, and is rated PG-13. Poster courtesy of Marvel Studios and Walt Disney Studios.
How “Thunderbolts*” brings Marvel back to its promising glory days | REVIEW
May 2, 2025
Barrio Barrito Bar located 1510 N Ankeny Blvd, Suite 102, Ankeny, IA 50023 Photo By Caden McGlin
Barrio Burrito Bar
May 28, 2025
In the newest column by the Talon Staff, reporters show their appreciation to some of their favorite teachers in Ankeny High School! Design by Nolan McNulty using Canva.
Talon appreciates teachers
May 9, 2025
“It's just the lack of desire to do the work that's been given to you when you have so many things ahead of you. It's just like it doesn't matter.” Senior Mia Koka said. Created by Sylvia Bartlett using Canva.
So close, but so far
May 5, 2025
Ankeny Girls Basketball stand for the National Anthem before a game against Dallas Center Grimes on January 1. Photo by Grady Andersen
Previewing all 8 regions in Girls Class 5A
February 18, 2025
IGHSAU and IHSAA announce the shift of girls’ tennis and boys’ golf to the fall season starting in 2025, sparking debate over the impact on student-athletes and school sports programs. Created by Olivia Luna using Canva
Spring sports to move to fall season ’25-’26
February 6, 2025
Second edition of The Talon editorial, design made using Canva by River Phillips.
Talon Editorial: Critique of Modern Media
May 23, 2025
As the world grapples with the fallout of TikTok's ban, its impact on society, politics, and culture marks a pivotal moment in history. From reshaping habits to sparking debates on free speech and national security, this decision leaves a lasting impression on the global stage. Visual made by Tobias Landmesser using Canva
Talon Editorial: TikTok, the current predicament
January 17, 2025
The Ankeny Hawkettes huddle up on defense at the top of the first inning during a matchup with Urbandale.
“Its the hard work but the right work”
June 21, 2025
A love of school and sport
A love of school and sport
May 29, 2025
Codee Myers talks to senior Grace Buch during a break in play. Myers has coached for the girls’ basketball program since the 2021-22 season.
Codee Myers: helping students get their head in the game
May 12, 2025
Senior Captain Dylan Gloviak directs traffic and defensive responsibilities during the second half of Friday’s (5/2) game.
No. 7 Hawks take commanding 4-1 win over Southeast Polk to celebrate senior night.
May 3, 2025
Ankeny freshman Morgan Fisher comes out of the blocks in the 100 meter dash during an April 3 meet at Northview Middle School. Fisher will compete in the 400 meter dash, 4x100 meter relay, and 4x400 meter relay for the Hawkettes at the Drake Relays.
‘If you won Drake or just did really good at Drake, it just kind of meant more’
April 24, 2025
Senior Grady Andersen keeps stats at an Ankeny Hawks baseball game. He’s been helping with the team since his freshman year, and added roles in basketball and football by sophomore year. “Grady has found a place,” said his dad, Kiron Andersen. “And I hope he's created an opportunity for someone else.” That sense of opportunity and support runs through everything Grady does—from filming plays to mentoring underclassmen. Photo published with permission from Dylan Shoemaker (@thefittestphotographer)
Grady Andersen: The man on the sideline
May 29, 2025
Our planet needs help, and only you can make a difference to change it. Graphic by Danny Nguyen made using Canva.
The cry of our planet
May 16, 2025
Codee Myers talks to senior Grace Buch during a break in play. Myers has coached for the girls’ basketball program since the 2021-22 season.
Codee Myers: helping students get their head in the game
May 12, 2025
“I would definitely be a completely different person, because I found my voice. You'll see me in the hallways, and I talk to people, and I like to ask people questions. I'm not scared to volunteer for things. And before I was involved in anything music-related, I was dead silent. I just didn't talk to people. I just kind of kept my head down and kept walking.” Lyles said. “And now I'm the person who always is saying, “hey, have a great day,’ things like that. So it's given me the gift to find myself, and help other people find themselves.” Created by Sylvia Bartlett using Canva.
Major impact in a minor key
May 12, 2025
“It's just the lack of desire to do the work that's been given to you when you have so many things ahead of you. It's just like it doesn't matter.” Senior Mia Koka said. Created by Sylvia Bartlett using Canva.
So close, but so far
May 5, 2025
Senior Grady Andersen keeps stats at an Ankeny Hawks baseball game. He’s been helping with the team since his freshman year, and added roles in basketball and football by sophomore year. “Grady has found a place,” said his dad, Kiron Andersen. “And I hope he's created an opportunity for someone else.” That sense of opportunity and support runs through everything Grady does—from filming plays to mentoring underclassmen. Photo published with permission from Dylan Shoemaker (@thefittestphotographer)
Grady Andersen: The man on the sideline
May 29, 2025
Codee Myers talks to senior Grace Buch during a break in play. Myers has coached for the girls’ basketball program since the 2021-22 season.
Codee Myers: helping students get their head in the game
May 12, 2025
Foreign exchange student Natali Bairamidi (far right) stands with her host family on a trip to Dyersville, Iowa. Photo published with permission from Natali Bairamidi.
‘Being here makes me feel like I am heard, seen, and understood.’
April 14, 2025
Leister smiling for the camera. Photo published with permission from Mary Kate Leister.
Merry Mary: New to the nest
April 9, 2025
Graphic created by Olivia Luna using Canva.
Chamberland mines for curiosity
April 8, 2025
On episode 9 of "Now Playing..." Blake and Nolan discuss the long-awaited album from Playboi Carti, titled "MUSIC". Design made by Nolan McNulty using Canva.
Now Playing…
April 15, 2025
Hosts Nolan and Blake bring on guest Brogan Smith to talk about his experience with the Chromakopia Tour on this episode of "Now Playing...". Design made by Nolan McNulty using Canva.
Now Playing…
April 11, 2025
The Hawkettes shake hands after a 50-27 loss to the No. 2 Dowling Catholic Maroons.
Hawkettes wrap up regular season with loss to Maroons
February 12, 2025
Ellie Bovee poses with her horse M&M for her senior photos. Photo by Tori Versteegh, published with permission by Ellie Bovee
Ellie Bovee: A force to be reckoned with
February 11, 2025
The Hawks took on tough matchups against top-ranked Waukee Northwest Wolves this past Monday, Feb. 3.
Hawks take on the Wolves in an energetic doubleheader
February 4, 2025
On episode 9 of "Now Playing..." Blake and Nolan discuss the long-awaited album from Playboi Carti, titled "MUSIC". Design made by Nolan McNulty using Canva.
Now Playing…
April 15, 2025
Hosts Nolan and Blake bring on guest Brogan Smith to talk about his experience with the Chromakopia Tour on this episode of "Now Playing...". Design made by Nolan McNulty using Canva.
Now Playing…
April 11, 2025
Hosts Nolan McNulty and Blake Eichmeier bring on guest speaker Ryan Cox to talk about The Weeknd's final album, "Hurry Up Tomorrow" on episode 7. Design by Nolan McNulty using Canva.
Now Playing…
February 4, 2025
"Now Playing..." returns after a hiatus, talking about Travis Scott, Djo, and Hinterland on episode 6. Design made by Nolan McNulty using Canva.
Now Playing…
January 28, 2025
The Student News Site of Ankeny High School

The Talon
The Student News Site of Ankeny High School

The Talon
The AHS student section hold up flashlights during the Homecoming game against Valley High School at Ankeny’s stadium on Sept. 30, 2022.

Football student sections: the reality

Ava Tomlinson, Web/Print/Multimedia Editor • March 31, 2023

There is a cheerful mood throughout the student section tonight. It is the Homecoming football game against Valley and you are crammed in so tight with one another that you have difficulty moving. Everyone...

The 2022-2023 school year marks Dr. Daniel Johnson's first year as AHS principal. According to staff and students alike, it has not taken long for Dr. Johnson to make an impact by becoming more of a presence. From senior selfies and inspiring all to have a "Hawksome" day, Dr. Johnson is establishing a culture at AHS that supports every individual in the Hawk nest.

Defining Hawk culture

Ava Tomlinson, Web/Print/Multimedia Editor • March 30, 2023

Approaching the 2022 to 2023 school year, students and staff were curious as to who would fill the principal position for Ankeny High School (AHS). With five of six administration positions being replaced,...

Ankeny students rally just outside of Ankeny High School holding pride flags and listening to speakers share personal stories about empowerment, frustrations, and hurt with regards to anti-LGBTQ legislation. Ankeny High School students took part in a state-wide walkout along with 46 other schools and a total of 10,000 students on March 1. The walkout, organized by the Iowa Queer Student Alliance and Iowa WTF, was formed in response to recent legislation circulating the capitol. An estimated number of 150 students, grade 8-12, walked outside of the high school, waving rainbow flags and holding posters.

The march continues

Vivian Wu, Web/Print/Multimedia Editor; Videographer • March 5, 2023

Protests, marches, and walkouts continue across Iowa as anti-LGBTQ legislation makes its way to the Capitol. So far 33 anti-LGBTQ laws have been introduced at the Iowa Capitol. Among these are House...

“Everyone is welcome no matter what part of the community you're a part of or not a part of," Iowa QSA and Iowa WTF member, walk out organizer, and senior Jemma Bullock said. The walk out seeks to bring attention to recent legislation in Iowa. Iowa WTF put together a list of Iowa legislative bills to watch. The group, according to their Instagram page is “A coalition of young people fighting discriminatory legislation through advocacy, activism, and civic engagement.”

AHS students to take part in state-wide walkout against recent legislation

Vivian Wu, Web/Print/Multimedia Editor; Videographer • February 28, 2023

On Wednesday, March 1, at 1:05 p.m., students from Ankeny High School will take part in a walkout for LGBTQ+ rights, along with 14 other Iowa public schools. These walkouts are in protest of the recent...

AHS Principal Daniel Johnson sits in his office getting ready for the day.

Dr. Daniel Johnson takes on Ankeny High School

Ava Tomlinson, Web/Print/Multimedia Editor • January 9, 2023

It feels like electricity is surging throughout the school. Everyone is excited for the homecoming game on Friday. As you walk into the school you see someone in the distance, welcoming kids into the building,...

Awareness behind it all

Natalie Jasso and Kaylie Brandhorst  • November 7, 2022

Ankeny High School students admit to being unaware to policies, laws, bills, and the educational stake in the upcoming midterm elections in Iowa.  Midterm elections are just around the corner on Nov....

AHS's mixed varsity show choir Visual Adrenaline performs "Heal Their Their hearts/Freedom" at the Southeast Polk Ramification Showcase on Feb. 26. This performance won them third place overall.

Show Choir: the pretty, the gritty, and the challenges

Scott Kruse, Business Editor • March 25, 2022

Show choir is one of Ankeny High School’s (AHS) longer-running activities and one that comes with a lot of behind-the-scenes time commitments. Despite this, members manage to find joy in show choir and...

A rainy street in Mons Belgium just begging to be enjoyed by tourists on a stroll. Europe is such an breathtaking continent. The different cultures and countries all in one place is truly amazing. All European countries are different, yet somewhat similar. So if you are traveling across Europe and going through different countries: It is important to keep in mind that while you’re still on the same continent, you are not in the same country.  What I mean by this is that all of these countries, or at least most of them, speak different languages. They have other differences, but this is one of the most important to remember. So, if you were to start your trip in France, and travel to Germany and then maybe to Italy, you have to be prepared for the switch in language.

Tips, tricks, tidbits: Surviving travel in a different country

Jemma Bullock, Staff Reporter; Movie Reviewer • March 10, 2022

Over this winter break, I went on an overseas trip to five European countries, and I have come back with many different pieces of advice on how to survive such a trip. Trips to different countries are...

"Spider-man No Way Home" has not only been one of the most hyped up movies of 2021, but one of the most hyped up movies ever. People from across the globe have had Dec. 17 circled on their calendar since the summer of 2017 when the movie was originally announced by Marvel. Senior Bradley Dacus and self proclaimed movie critic at Ankeny High School stated, “This is what it all has led up to, Spider-Man's biggest movie. I’ve been waiting for about a year for this movie and I can’t wait to see what happens.”

“Spider-man: No Way Home” movie review

Jemma Bullock and Connor Boger • December 23, 2021

The spark of nostalgia is the driving force behind the movie, “Spider-man: No Way Home.” With the confirmed appearances of Willem Dafoe, Alfred Molina, and JK Simmons, as well as the potential cameos...

The 2021 Ankeny School Board, City Council, and Mayoral election winners.

Ankeny local election results

Jemma Bullock, Staff Reporter; Movie Reviewer • November 3, 2021

The polls for the 2021 elections for Ankeny School Board, City Council, and Mayor closed on Nov. 2 at 8 p.m. and results were coming in 21 minutes later. The official election results were posted at 8:55...

Join Journalism!

October 29, 2021

Why Journalism? Be a voice for the community and the Hawk Nest. Cover real topics for real audiences using real skills. Not everyone who takes journalism goes on to pursue it after high school, but...

The Talon News team held a press conference with five of the seven candidates running for Ankeny School Board election on Thursday, Oct. 28 at Ankeny High School. Candidates spoke on a wide variety of topics including the importance of empowering leadership, diversity and inclusion, and providing safe and welcoming environments for all in the Ankeny Community School District. Candidates pictured from left to right: Lori Bullock, Joy Burk, Shelly Northway, Lori Lovstad, and Sarah Barthole

A conversation with Ankeny School Board candidates

Jemma Bullock, Abby Stephenson, Autumn Mulford, Vivian Wu, and Luke Mora • October 28, 2021

With local elections approaching, the Talon news team met with five of the seven Ankeny School Board candidates looking to fill the three open seats. Candidates Joy Burk, Lori Bullock, Sarah Barthole,...

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