August 3, 2025 • 29 mins
Before the school bells ring and kickoff whistles blow, there’s a lot stirring beneath the surface—on campuses, ranches, and retail shelves. This week, we spotlight what families need to think about beyond the basics as students head back to class, why your next grocery bill might leave you with sticker shock, and what to watch for as college football camps heat up across Kentucky. Surprising insights and unexpected connections—just in time for the end of summer, all this week with Scott Fitzgerald & "Kentucky Focus"
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Episode Transcript
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Speaker 1 (00:01):
And welcome to Kentucky Focus. I'm Scott Fitzgerald. As students
return to school in college campuses around the Commonwealth, to
back to school season looks a bit more digital.
Speaker 2 (00:11):
Than it used to.
Speaker 1 (00:12):
From ebads to MacBooks, technology is now central to how
students learn.
Speaker 2 (00:16):
And how teachers teach. Coming up, we'll talk.
Speaker 1 (00:18):
With jamaira, Austin program lead for Apple Retail about how
families can choose the right tech tools, get them set
up easily, and take advantage of Apples back to school
offers and features designed to boost productivity and creativity.
Speaker 2 (00:31):
Then we're hitting the grocery.
Speaker 1 (00:32):
Aley you have, Beef prices are soaring nationwide, with the
average price of ground beef nearly six dollars a pound.
Speaker 2 (00:38):
What's causing it?
Speaker 1 (00:39):
What's next for Kentucky families and local cattle producers. Andrew
compen is the CEO of ranch Bot and a cattle
industry expert. He helps us break down what's really driving
the record highs, from droughts to shrinking herds, and what
it means is we head into the fall, and finally
speaking into the fall, football is back.
Speaker 2 (00:58):
Yeah, you guessed it. Fall camps are opening up around
the state.
Speaker 1 (01:01):
And we'll preview what's ahead for college programs right here
in Kentucky, including Eastern Kentucky, Murray State, Kentucky, Louisville and
more as.
Speaker 2 (01:08):
All as they gear up for the twenty twenty five season.
We've got a pack show for you. It's all straight ahead.
Speaker 1 (01:13):
I'm Scott Fitzgerald and again you're listening to Kentucky Focus.
Speaker 3 (01:18):
Welcome to Kentucky Focus on the Kentucky News Network, the
show that looks at issues affecting the Commonwealth and its citizens.
We cover state politics, in history, human interest stories, sports,
and even entertainment. It's Kentucky Focus on kNN.
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Speaker 1 (02:37):
Welcome back to Kentucky Focus. I'm Scott Fitzgerald. Well's families around.
You're up for the new school year. I'm back to school.
Checklists are looking.
Speaker 2 (02:45):
A little different these days.
Speaker 1 (02:47):
Pencils and paper are still important, but for many students
and educators, technology is now front and center. In fact,
studies showed tech he's making a real difference in the classroom,
helping students study smarter and even boosting greats. But with
so many choices out there, how do you know what
device is the right fit for your student. Well, today,
we're excited to be joined by Jamira Austin, programming lead
(03:09):
for Apple Retails. She's here to walk us through the
latest tools, features and tips from Apple to help families
choose the right tech and get up for success this
school year. Jamira, thanks for taking time to join us.
Speaker 8 (03:20):
Oh, thank you so much for having me.
Speaker 2 (03:22):
Good morning, Good morning to you. Let's start with the
big picture.
Speaker 1 (03:25):
Technology continues to change how students learn no doubt once
should families and educators be thinking about when choosing the
right tech tools for the new school year.
Speaker 8 (03:33):
Well, it's a great question.
Speaker 4 (03:35):
I'm here to help, so I would definitely say that
now is the best time to start doing your research.
Speaker 9 (03:40):
Right.
Speaker 4 (03:40):
If you're going back to school, think about what you need.
What does your everyday school they look like? Are you
writing papers? Are you editing videos? Are you taking handwritten
notes from there? Do you need additional things like performance, battery, life,
durability right, all those things play a role. So whether
you're shopping online or you come in to see us
at your local Apples store, our specialists love connecting with
(04:03):
students every day and helping them choose the right product
from mac to iPad to iPhone.
Speaker 8 (04:08):
So we're here to.
Speaker 1 (04:08):
Support wonderful conversation happening with jamaira Austin programming lead for
Apple and retailers.
Speaker 2 (04:13):
Students get ready to head.
Speaker 1 (04:14):
Back to school and Jamira Apple has really leaned into
supporting students and educators. Can you tell us more about
the education pricing and the back to school promotion running
now through September.
Speaker 4 (04:25):
It's my favorite question to answer right now because it's
all about the ways that students and families can save
right now, and who doesn't want to save right So?
I have three different ways you can do that. The
first way is with Apple's Education Pricing. This is available
year round for college students, so no matter what time
you're going to school, it provides discounts on Mac and
iPad which helps make that back to school technology a
(04:46):
bit more affordable. Right But now this summer, as part
of our College Student Offer, students can actually choose an
eligible accessory like air pods or an Apple pencil when
they purchase that Mac or iPad on top of the
education saving, so you're able to stack right there. And
then if that weren't enough, with Apple's trade in program,
you can save even more when you trade in an
(05:07):
eligible product and it doesn't even have to be a
Mac or an iPad. Apple will give you a gift
card that you can use towards your back to school product.
So just a recap.
Speaker 8 (05:16):
We've got that education pricing available year round.
Speaker 4 (05:18):
You can stack that with the College Student Offer until
September thirtieth, and if you have an old macro iPad,
you can trade that in for additional savings.
Speaker 1 (05:26):
You know, as the parent of an elementary school teacher
and a junior in college. This is great news, Jamira
and Jamiro Austin joining us.
Speaker 2 (05:35):
Wow.
Speaker 1 (05:36):
Yeah, programly for Apple retail, this is welcome. I'm going
to inform them of this, Astaf Jamiro. Whether a student
is heading into middle school or off to college, how
can they figure out whether the Mac or iPad is
the best fit for their learning style.
Speaker 8 (05:49):
That's really an excellent question.
Speaker 4 (05:51):
And you as a parent, I'm sure it's something that
you're thinking about binding technology for school.
Speaker 8 (05:55):
It's a big decision.
Speaker 4 (05:56):
So both iPad and Mac are really perfect for college.
There's no wrong choice there. And based on how you
like to work and the activities you'll use it for,
the students can really choose what works best for their needs.
Right Like many students shoes Mac, many shoes iPad, and
for some it's not about either or they own.
Speaker 8 (06:12):
Both because they really work great together.
Speaker 4 (06:14):
So iPad offers that great touch screen experience that we
know and love. You can combine it with the Apple
pencil and the Magic keyboard so that it's really versatile.
But then you've got the Mac, which brings amazing performance.
It gives you that battery life. That really high quality
twelve megapixel center stage camera Apple Intelligence, and it's portable
and durable, So they're great on their own, they're also
(06:36):
great together. You can copy the text from your iPhone
or your iPad and paste it on your Mac. You
can use your iPad as an additional screen. So it's
great to be a student right now. You can get
even more done and stay more productive throughout.
Speaker 2 (06:47):
The year, no kidding.
Speaker 1 (06:48):
Jamaira Austin joining us fascinating conversation. She is programming lead
for Apple and retail trying to help folks navigate getting
set up for tech is the new school year is.
Speaker 2 (06:58):
Right around the corner, and Damira.
Speaker 1 (07:00):
Apple recently hosted its worldwide Developers Conference and there are
a lot of exciting announcements.
Speaker 2 (07:06):
Are there any new software features students.
Speaker 1 (07:08):
Should look forward to that might help stay productive or organized?
Speaker 4 (07:11):
Yeah, so we were super excited about all of the announcements.
I do have a few that I think are really
really special. So in terms of iPad os twenty six,
now we have windowing that has been completely redesigned to
deliver a more powerful and flexible experience. So imagine that
you're using a variety of tools on your iPad. Now
you can control, you can arrange view and organize the windows,
(07:32):
making it even easier in a multitask and work across
apps which we love. And then coming to Mac os Tahoe,
there's a great update coming to Spotlight which makes it
even easier for you to find.
Speaker 8 (07:42):
What you're looking for on your Mac.
Speaker 4 (07:44):
Right, we've all been there, So now there are new
filtering options that allow you to narrow in the search
that you can find exactly which pdf you were looking
for from that study session or that exact email from
your professor. It's built in to be really easy to
use and help you find what you're looking for.
Speaker 2 (07:58):
Wonderful.
Speaker 1 (07:59):
Just a couple more questions for you, jamiro and we'll
let you get on your way because I know you're
very busy this time of year. Apple stores offer, of course,
more than just product support. Tell us a little bit
about the free learning sessions that are available to customers.
Speaker 8 (08:12):
Absolutely, and we're never too busy for you.
Speaker 4 (08:14):
So yeah, we have lots of great learning experiences in
our stores. So once you do get your Mac or
your iPad first, we can help you get it set
up entirely. So whether it's your first Mac, or you
have a Mac now and you to transfer all your
data or from your old iPad to your new iPad.
Will help make sure that your device is set up
and ready to go when you leave. And then if
you're interested in learning more about your new device, we
(08:35):
have free today at Apple sessions in every single one
of our Apple stores that help you make the most
out of that new product. So definitely come in and
see us again. They're all free and just help you
learn more.
Speaker 1 (08:45):
Last question for you, Jamaira. Where can listeners go to
learn more and take advantage, of course of all the
education officers excuse me? Last question for you, Jamaira. And finally,
where can listeners go to learn more to take advantage
of all the education offers we talked about?
Speaker 4 (08:59):
Well, please please, if you do have a local Apple store,
come down and see us, Come say hi. We are
here to support you and help you make all of
these back to school decisions. And if you don't have
a local Apple store nearby, you can definitely visit us
on Apple dot com. That's where you can see all
the details about that college student offer that I mentioned.
You can learn about the education pricing and trade in options,
so Please go to the website Apple dot com or
(09:21):
come in and see us and we'll get you all
set up to go back to school.
Speaker 1 (09:24):
Great insights, Jamira, It's clear that with right tools and guidance,
families can really kind of set their students up for
a successful and productive school year, whether you're buying your
first device or upgrading for college apples, back to school
offers and support resources, as we heard, make that process
much easier and a little bit more exciting too. Jamirah Austin,
program lead at Apple Retail, thank you so much for
(09:44):
joining us.
Speaker 8 (09:45):
Thank you again for having me in.
Speaker 4 (09:46):
Good luck with your kids and going back to school yourself.
Speaker 9 (09:48):
Appreciate it.
Speaker 1 (09:49):
Coming up paying a little bit more for that beef
this summer that you want to throw on a grill,
We'll find out why, what's being done to bring it
back down. I'm scum Fitzgerald, and you're listening too, Can Tucky.
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Speaker 1 (10:32):
Welcome back to Kentucky Focus. I'm Scott Fitzgerald. Beef prices
are sizzling, not just on the grill. The cost of
ground beef hitting all time high in May, and your
favorite cuts aren't far behind. What's driving the record breaking
rise and what does it mean for ranchers, retailers, and
the rest of us at the Country Store Today, we're
joined by Andrew Koppen, a cattle industry expert and CEO
(10:54):
of ranch Bot who works directly with ranchers feeling the
pressure from drought and dwindling herd. Sign does this do
the long term economic issues shaping the future of American beef?
Andrew brings a perspective Well you don't want to miss
And first of all, Andrew, thanks for taking time to
join us.
Speaker 9 (11:10):
Great to be here with you. Scott, thanks for having me.
Speaker 1 (11:12):
You bet my friend, and tell me a little bit
about ranch Bomb. What do you guys do there?
Speaker 7 (11:16):
Yeah, so, Ranchbot's remote monitoring company that monitors water for ranchers.
Ranchers spent a lot of time driving to check Water
every day throughout the summer.
Speaker 9 (11:26):
And you know, we automate.
Speaker 7 (11:27):
That for them and put it on their cell phone
so they don't have to drive to check Water all day.
They can work on more important things like getting a
better price for their beef.
Speaker 1 (11:36):
Sure, so you know a thing or two about what
we're about to talk about, Andrew, Let's start with the headlines.
Beef prices up more than sixteen percent from last year.
Speaker 2 (11:44):
What are the biggest forces behind the surge?
Speaker 7 (11:46):
Yeah, Well, underlying the surge, Scott, is the traditional forces
of supply and demand. We find ourselves in a pretty
unique position where we've got the lowest cattle herd since
the nineteen fifties and sixties, and demand for beef as
a product with US consumers is booming. There's burger chains
and steakhouses down every freeway. US consumers love beef. I
(12:09):
don't blame them. I love it too.
Speaker 1 (12:11):
Right, we're joined now by Andrew copp and he, of
course is the CEO of Ranch Biten.
Speaker 2 (12:16):
We're talking about the rising costs of beef.
Speaker 1 (12:19):
And Andrew, how much of this price increase is tied
to the shrinking size? Maybe of cattle herds and what's
causing that decline.
Speaker 7 (12:25):
Yeah, I think if you think, you know, we're sort
of back at the same levels as we were with
beef cattle at sort of eighty seven million head of cattle.
We were back there in sort of nineteen fifties, nineteen sixties.
But back then there was you know, there's only one
hundred and eighty two million people in the US versus
today's you know, three hundred and forty million, and I'm
(12:46):
pretty sure we.
Speaker 9 (12:47):
Didn't have all the chain stores and things that we
have today.
Speaker 7 (12:51):
So when you think that the US consumer, average US
consumer consumes about fifty eight to sixty pounds of beef
per annum, you know we're going to produce a lot
of beef. So when you combine the effects of drought,
weather volatility, which has impaired ranchers growing their herds and
(13:11):
while they're trying to contemporaneously keep up with demand, it's
you know, we've really got into this period where prices
are firm. But I mean, I think you know, one
thing to say that they're they're high. I mean, they're
probably where they should be for the US marketplace. You know,
it's great for ranchers to be having a win, and
(13:33):
you know, US consumers are still happy to happy to
buy the product. So I think it's a win win
scenario at the moment. We've just got other external forces
that could come into play which could send prices higher.
Speaker 9 (13:45):
I guess that's sort of what everyone's keeping an eye on.
Speaker 2 (13:47):
Sure.
Speaker 1 (13:48):
Andrew Coppin joins US now CEO of ranch By, and
he works extensively with ranchers across the country, and he's
certainly an expert on what we're talking about today, and
that is.
Speaker 2 (13:57):
The cost of beef.
Speaker 1 (13:59):
And Andrew, as you talk to some of the ranchers
across the country, how are small family run ranches coping
with the higher input costs? And as you mentioned the
extreme weather.
Speaker 7 (14:08):
Yeah, well, I think everyone's got the unique challenges because
you know, whether there's been highly regional there's some people
that have obviously had catastrophic floods and their hearts go
out to the poor folks in Central Texas, whereas you know,
five hours away there's people that have only had one
or two inches of rain. So I think ranchers have
to be more responsive to the weather and the climate
(14:29):
times that they find themselves in when they're assessing their pastures,
and obviously pastures determine how many cattle you can graze
in your operation, so you know, weather and the size
of the cattle herd are inextricably linked. Obviously, we've got
input prices are pretty high. I mean most ranches I
talk to them, we look after about twelve thousand ranches
(14:51):
across the USA. I've never met a rancher that has
got an abundance of good staff, so finding good people
is hard. The cost of the F two fifty to
is not cheap, the wear and tear on the vehicles
not cheap, and feed prices if you run out a
pasture are expensive. So the input costs are high, which
means ranchers have to be more vigilant around their operations.
(15:11):
They don't want to overstock, they don't have too many cattle.
And yet you know, obviously I haven't met too many
that wouldn't love to have more right now at these prices,
So it's a balancing act. But obviously higher prices ultimately
are good for ranchers. But still, like everyone, they're going
to have to run a good business, and you know,
(15:33):
technology like ours is helping them be more efficient and
more productive in their operations.
Speaker 1 (15:38):
Again, Andrew Koppen joining us. He's CEO of ranch Bidy
knows a thing or two about working with ranchers, and
we're talking about the future of beef, the big picture
and sort of what prices will look like. How is
technology like the kind that ranch B provides helping ranchers
adapt to the challenges that they're facing now in twenty
twenty five, I think, like.
Speaker 7 (15:56):
Most sectors on the planet that have grown with technolog
it doesn't matter if you think about the medical profession,
or motor vehicles or any other industry, you know there's
been massive technology innovation. We've certain billions of dollars trying
to work out how to grow a better cow. But
we're now going into an era where we have to
have technology that's how to run a better ranch because
(16:19):
you know, ranches will have less less people and they
will need to do more. And the pressure the macro environment,
of course, is we have to try and think how
we're going to grow the food base by twenty five
or thirty percent over the next few decades. So ranches,
like all of us, all need to think, how do
I do this more efficiently? How to I increase productivity
(16:39):
without increasing costs. And so we are seeing an eerr
a really good ranch technology like ranch bot and other
out there. Whether it's automatically weighing cattle using computer vision
and AI, or better assessing pastures and soil using satellite telemetry.
There's a range of technologies, and I think a stute
(17:00):
ranchers will get onto them early and make sure that
their operations are as profitable and productive as they can be.
Speaker 1 (17:06):
We're having a great conversation with Andrew Company is the
CEO of ranch By, and he knows the thing or
two about helping farmers as we deal with extreme weather
conditions and other elements that are well kind of raising
the cost of beef and they're trying to keep that
cost down for us as the consumer. You know, Andrew,
you talk a little bit about some of the small
ranchers who exit the market because of the conditions, Who
(17:28):
or what is replacing them.
Speaker 9 (17:29):
I mean, look, I think that's a choice.
Speaker 7 (17:31):
If people are going to do that, I mean, they're
either going to have to adapt and change and use
technology and find better ways to do things, or they're
going to be become non competitive and have to you know,
and possibly exit. I mean, I think, you know, what
I've seen is, you know, the people that have adopted
to change and have used technology have become more profitable,
(17:52):
financially stronger, and they've ended up buying their neighbors out
and expanding their operations. So I guess there is a
little bit of getting bigger and economies of scale, finding
the right size for your operation, you know, because it
may be that running you know, fifteen or twenty cows
is only marginal and it's a secondary income.
Speaker 9 (18:10):
It's not enough to survive, so some people might decide
to give it up.
Speaker 7 (18:13):
But most people I know just love the whole lifestyle
of ranching and having cattle around and making that part
of their life. So there's choices to be made as
to whether it's a lifestyle thing or whether it's actually
a business and you really want to focus on making
money out of it.
Speaker 1 (18:29):
Andrew Coppin joins us. He's CEO of ranch Bot. We're
talking about the future of beef where it's at now,
and of course how they're coping with different weather conditions,
and you can find more information on their website about
the good work that they do. And just a couple
more questions for you, Andrew before we let you go,
and you know, are we likely to see prices continue
to wake up in twenty twenty six or is this
(18:51):
mainly just a temporary spake.
Speaker 7 (18:53):
The current challenge we've got is to combine with a
low herd and high demand. We've also had the closing
of the Mexican border, which is the source of beef
cattle for.
Speaker 9 (19:02):
The United States.
Speaker 7 (19:04):
On an average year, we import about a million beef
cattle into the US from Mexico. So at the moment
that borders and that trade is closed to prevent a
biohazard in New World screw worm, which I think is
very sensible to protect.
Speaker 9 (19:20):
The US beef industry and livestock industry.
Speaker 7 (19:23):
But when you've suddenly taken a minion cattle a year
out of the marketplace, of course, that's another pressure, upside
pressure on pricing. Depending how long that matter prevails and
how long it's seem suitable to protect the border, that
supply will be short So the US will probably have
to look to import grinding beef and other beef products
(19:44):
from other safe countries that have got high quality product
and that still will not diminish in any way. Shape
or form the price that the average US ranch is getting.
Speaker 9 (19:54):
For their high quality beef.
Speaker 7 (19:56):
So at the moment, no one can really see any
major reason why the price US as would fall materially
throughout history. It really comes down to some sort of
economic events where either beef prices get too high and
consumer demand backs off, or the consumer's circumstances changed, Like
you know, if inflation gets higher and higher and people
(20:17):
have to make choices about whether they're going to eat
steak or chicken or some other protein, that's more likely
to be the things we're considering.
Speaker 9 (20:24):
In twenty twenty.
Speaker 1 (20:25):
Six, outstanding again thanks to Andrew, Company's CEO of ranch Byte,
helping us understand the economic and environmental storm behind.
Speaker 2 (20:33):
America's beef prices.
Speaker 1 (20:34):
Of course, as ranchers continue to adapt to drought, shrinking
herds and the raising costs, well, the story is becoming
a bit more complex and more urgent. And Andrew, you've
done a great job at outlining that for us. If
folks listening right now want more information on not only
just yourself, but on what ranch Bite does, where can
they go?
Speaker 9 (20:52):
Yeah, thanks Scott, it's been great chatting with you.
Speaker 7 (20:54):
Yeah, you can find more information about ranch pot and
remote monitoring a ranch dash and bot.
Speaker 2 (21:00):
Andrew, thank you for your time, my friend.
Speaker 1 (21:02):
Maybe let's catch up in a little bit and see
where these prices are at in just a few months.
Speaker 2 (21:06):
And see where we're going from that direction.
Speaker 1 (21:08):
Shall we look forward to it coming up? Or flipping
the calendar to August? That means it's so most time
for football. We got plenty of college football on tap. Well,
take a look at the upcoming season. I'm Scott Fitzgerald.
You're listening to Kentucky Focus.
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Speaker 1 (22:00):
Come back to Kentucky Focus. So I'm Scott Fitzgerald. With
college football practices officially underway run the state, there's a
renewed sense of energy as stadiums in locker rooms from
Murray to Morehead, from Bowling Green to Louisville. Well gear
out for what promises to be, of course, another competitive
and emotional season. Let's start in Lexington, where Kentucky Wildcats
head coach Mark Stoops addressed the media at UK's annual
(22:22):
Team Media Days Steps, reflecting on last year's disappointing four
to eight finish, but said this year brings a new
purpose and more importantly, new personnel.
Speaker 12 (22:30):
Well, after you're coming off a season like that, I
feel like it was needed in certain places, and that's
a good thing. We needed to continue to develop the
young players in our program, and obviously we needed to
attack the portal. Obviously that's a higher number than we've
ever had here. Again, I felt like it was necessary.
Speaker 1 (22:48):
The Wildcats added twenty six players through the transfer portal,
the most in program history, including thirteen Power five starters.
Steeps says the additions aren't just about on the field talent,
but about.
Speaker 2 (22:58):
Rebuilding the team's and identity.
Speaker 1 (23:01):
Kentucky will open the season and then on August thirty
at that home against Toledo. Meanwhile, Louisville two offensive stars
have landed on the Maxwell Award Watch Liz, highlighting the
top college football players in the nation. Running Back Isaac Brown,
last year's ACC Rookie of the Year, returns after rushing
for over one thousand yards and telling over fifteen hundred
dollars purpose yards with twelve touchdowns. Turning him is quarterback
(23:24):
Miller Moss, who transferred from Southern cal where he threw
for two thousand, five hundred and fifty five yards and
eighteen touchdowns over nine starts. Cards offense could be one
of the most electric in the ACC. Louisville will open
its season hosting Eastern Kentucky.
Speaker 2 (23:39):
We're in Richmond.
Speaker 1 (23:40):
The Colonels made a strong showing at the United Athletic
Conference Media Day in Nashville. The Colonels landed a league
high six players on the preseason All Conference team, including
running back Brydon Latham and wide receiver Marcus Cowwise.
Speaker 2 (23:52):
Junior.
Speaker 1 (23:53):
Eastern was picked to finish third in the UAC preseason
coaches polled. They'll open the season August thirtieth, again at Louisville.
Home opener is set for September sixth in Bowen Green,
Western Kentucky's a Maverick McIvor also grabbed national attention the
Maxwell Ward List on a ree transferred from Abilene Christian,
where he passed for over eight thousand yards and sixty
(24:13):
three touchdowns across three seasons. Western begins their season a
week early. It is a Week zero matchup at home
against Sam Houston on August twenty third. That game will
be televised nationally by CBS Sports Network with a kickoff
set for six pm Central in the FCS spotlight the
Murray State Racers earned during their third year in the
Missouri Valley Football Conference and their second straight under.
Speaker 2 (24:34):
Head coach Jody Wright.
Speaker 1 (24:36):
Coach Wright and players Jim Ogle and Juwan Northington represented
the Racers at league media days, taking part in interviews
and also a special community service event for feeding South Dakota.
With more than seventy new players on their roster, including
fifty six freshmen, Right admits that they're making steps to.
Speaker 2 (24:52):
Close the gap, but it's going to take some time.
Speaker 1 (24:54):
Among Murray's preseason standouts this year, running back Juan Northington.
He returns with one hun ninety five career rushing yards,
averaging about four and a half yards per carry. Quarterback
Jim Ogele, who appeared in four games last season.
Speaker 2 (25:07):
Also wide receiver JK.
Speaker 1 (25:09):
Carter who had forty two catches for five hundred and
sixty yards, and punter Tom O'Hara, who averaged in impressive
nearly forty five yards per punt as a freshman. Racers
will begin the season August thirtieth at East Tennessee. Their
home owner is set for September sixth against Southeast during
Louisiana's part of Family Weekend. Homecoming will fall on November
first against Southern Illinois. This year also marks the forty
(25:31):
ninth anniversary of the beloved racer ie tradition where thoroughbred
circles the track after every Murray touchdown.
Speaker 2 (25:38):
Twenty twenty five, Junckie is Breece.
Speaker 1 (25:40):
Mohan, a marketing major from Mayfield and finally in Morihead,
a Kentucky legend, is being honored in a big way.
Morehead State will officially re Dame It's football facility, phil
Simms Stadium during homecoming weekend on October eighteenth. Sims, of course,
at nineteen seventies standout at Morehead State, went onto a
Hall of Fame NFL career, flitting a Super Bowl MVP
(26:01):
and two Pro.
Speaker 2 (26:02):
Bowl appearances with the New York Giants.
Speaker 1 (26:05):
These remain deeply involved with the university, from mentoring players
to hosting summer camps and donating hundreds of thousands of
dollars to support MSU athletics. University of President doctor J.
Morgan says the stadium renaming will be the centerpiece of
a homecoming celebration that reminds alumni that quote the Morhead
State experience last a lifetime. The original stadium name, Jane
(26:27):
Stadium will remain honored through commemerative plaque inside the entrance.
So with fall camp getting underway across the state, Kentucky's
college football teams from gearing.
Speaker 2 (26:36):
Up, each with their own homes, questions.
Speaker 1 (26:39):
And rising stars from revamped rosters in Lexington, to youth
movement in Murray, quarterback depth in Louisville, and attribute to
a legend in Moorhead, twenty twenty five fall season is
shaving up to be one worth watching. I'm Scott Fitzgerald.
You're listening to Kentucky Focus. We're back to wrap things
up after this.
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To learn more, go to Autism Speaks dot org, slash win.
Speaker 2 (27:29):
And that's going to do it. For this week's Kentucky Focus.
Speaker 1 (27:31):
Thanks again to Jamirah Austin from Apple Retail for walking
us through how families and educators can use technology more
efficiently this school year and how to take advantage of
Apple's education pricing and back to school deals, of course
before the September thirtieth deadline. Appreciation as well to Andrew
a copy of Ranch Bond, who helped us understand why
beef prices are hitting historic highs and the major challenges
(27:53):
facing small family ranchers across the country.
Speaker 2 (27:56):
And as college.
Speaker 1 (27:56):
Football kicks off, it's fall camp around the season of
all the stories and the student athletes shaping programs right
here at home, from the Kernels to the Racers, from
the Cats to the Cards. We're just getting started, and
for more information on what you've heard today, you can
simply visit any of our social media pages or our website.
For all of us here at the Kentucky News Network
(28:17):
and of course Kentucky Focus, I'm Scott Fitzgerald saying, make
it a great week, be careful, and of course, as always,
take care of one another.
Speaker 2 (28:25):
We'll talk to you next week on Kentucky Focus.
Speaker 3 (28:28):
Kentucky Focus on the Kentucky News Network, the show that
looks at issues affecting the Commonwealth and its citizens. We
cover state politics and history, human interest stories, sports, and
even entertainment. It's Kentucky Focus on kNN.
Speaker 13 (28:45):
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Speaker 2 (29:26):
A message from the US Tire Manufacturers Association
And welcome to Kentucky Focus. I'm Scott Fitzgerald. As students
return to school in college campuses around the Commonwealth, to
back to school season looks a bit more digital.
Speaker 2 (00:11):
Than it used to.
Speaker 1 (00:12):
From ebads to MacBooks, technology is now central to how
students learn.
Speaker 2 (00:16):
And how teachers teach. Coming up, we'll talk.
Speaker 1 (00:18):
With jamaira, Austin program lead for Apple Retail about how
families can choose the right tech tools, get them set
up easily, and take advantage of Apples back to school
offers and features designed to boost productivity and creativity.
Speaker 2 (00:31):
Then we're hitting the grocery.
Speaker 1 (00:32):
Aley you have, Beef prices are soaring nationwide, with the
average price of ground beef nearly six dollars a pound.
Speaker 2 (00:38):
What's causing it?
Speaker 1 (00:39):
What's next for Kentucky families and local cattle producers. Andrew
compen is the CEO of ranch Bot and a cattle
industry expert. He helps us break down what's really driving
the record highs, from droughts to shrinking herds, and what
it means is we head into the fall, and finally
speaking into the fall, football is back.
Speaker 2 (00:58):
Yeah, you guessed it. Fall camps are opening up around
the state.
Speaker 1 (01:01):
And we'll preview what's ahead for college programs right here
in Kentucky, including Eastern Kentucky, Murray State, Kentucky, Louisville and
more as.
Speaker 2 (01:08):
All as they gear up for the twenty twenty five season.
We've got a pack show for you. It's all straight ahead.
Speaker 1 (01:13):
I'm Scott Fitzgerald and again you're listening to Kentucky Focus.
Speaker 3 (01:18):
Welcome to Kentucky Focus on the Kentucky News Network, the
show that looks at issues affecting the Commonwealth and its citizens.
We cover state politics, in history, human interest stories, sports,
and even entertainment. It's Kentucky Focus on kNN.
Speaker 4 (01:37):
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Speaker 1 (02:37):
Welcome back to Kentucky Focus. I'm Scott Fitzgerald. Well's families around.
You're up for the new school year. I'm back to school.
Checklists are looking.
Speaker 2 (02:45):
A little different these days.
Speaker 1 (02:47):
Pencils and paper are still important, but for many students
and educators, technology is now front and center. In fact,
studies showed tech he's making a real difference in the classroom,
helping students study smarter and even boosting greats. But with
so many choices out there, how do you know what
device is the right fit for your student. Well, today,
we're excited to be joined by Jamira Austin, programming lead
(03:09):
for Apple Retails. She's here to walk us through the
latest tools, features and tips from Apple to help families
choose the right tech and get up for success this
school year. Jamira, thanks for taking time to join us.
Speaker 8 (03:20):
Oh, thank you so much for having me.
Speaker 2 (03:22):
Good morning, Good morning to you. Let's start with the
big picture.
Speaker 1 (03:25):
Technology continues to change how students learn no doubt once
should families and educators be thinking about when choosing the
right tech tools for the new school year.
Speaker 8 (03:33):
Well, it's a great question.
Speaker 4 (03:35):
I'm here to help, so I would definitely say that
now is the best time to start doing your research.
Speaker 9 (03:40):
Right.
Speaker 4 (03:40):
If you're going back to school, think about what you need.
What does your everyday school they look like? Are you
writing papers? Are you editing videos? Are you taking handwritten
notes from there? Do you need additional things like performance, battery, life,
durability right, all those things play a role. So whether
you're shopping online or you come in to see us
at your local Apples store, our specialists love connecting with
(04:03):
students every day and helping them choose the right product
from mac to iPad to iPhone.
Speaker 8 (04:08):
So we're here to.
Speaker 1 (04:08):
Support wonderful conversation happening with jamaira Austin programming lead for
Apple and retailers.
Speaker 2 (04:13):
Students get ready to head.
Speaker 1 (04:14):
Back to school and Jamira Apple has really leaned into
supporting students and educators. Can you tell us more about
the education pricing and the back to school promotion running
now through September.
Speaker 4 (04:25):
It's my favorite question to answer right now because it's
all about the ways that students and families can save
right now, and who doesn't want to save right So?
I have three different ways you can do that. The
first way is with Apple's Education Pricing. This is available
year round for college students, so no matter what time
you're going to school, it provides discounts on Mac and
iPad which helps make that back to school technology a
(04:46):
bit more affordable. Right But now this summer, as part
of our College Student Offer, students can actually choose an
eligible accessory like air pods or an Apple pencil when
they purchase that Mac or iPad on top of the
education saving, so you're able to stack right there. And
then if that weren't enough, with Apple's trade in program,
you can save even more when you trade in an
(05:07):
eligible product and it doesn't even have to be a
Mac or an iPad. Apple will give you a gift
card that you can use towards your back to school product.
So just a recap.
Speaker 8 (05:16):
We've got that education pricing available year round.
Speaker 4 (05:18):
You can stack that with the College Student Offer until
September thirtieth, and if you have an old macro iPad,
you can trade that in for additional savings.
Speaker 1 (05:26):
You know, as the parent of an elementary school teacher
and a junior in college. This is great news, Jamira
and Jamiro Austin joining us.
Speaker 2 (05:35):
Wow.
Speaker 1 (05:36):
Yeah, programly for Apple retail, this is welcome. I'm going
to inform them of this, Astaf Jamiro. Whether a student
is heading into middle school or off to college, how
can they figure out whether the Mac or iPad is
the best fit for their learning style.
Speaker 8 (05:49):
That's really an excellent question.
Speaker 4 (05:51):
And you as a parent, I'm sure it's something that
you're thinking about binding technology for school.
Speaker 8 (05:55):
It's a big decision.
Speaker 4 (05:56):
So both iPad and Mac are really perfect for college.
There's no wrong choice there. And based on how you
like to work and the activities you'll use it for,
the students can really choose what works best for their needs.
Right Like many students shoes Mac, many shoes iPad, and
for some it's not about either or they own.
Speaker 8 (06:12):
Both because they really work great together.
Speaker 4 (06:14):
So iPad offers that great touch screen experience that we
know and love. You can combine it with the Apple
pencil and the Magic keyboard so that it's really versatile.
But then you've got the Mac, which brings amazing performance.
It gives you that battery life. That really high quality
twelve megapixel center stage camera Apple Intelligence, and it's portable
and durable, So they're great on their own, they're also
(06:36):
great together. You can copy the text from your iPhone
or your iPad and paste it on your Mac. You
can use your iPad as an additional screen. So it's
great to be a student right now. You can get
even more done and stay more productive throughout.
Speaker 2 (06:47):
The year, no kidding.
Speaker 1 (06:48):
Jamaira Austin joining us fascinating conversation. She is programming lead
for Apple and retail trying to help folks navigate getting
set up for tech is the new school year is.
Speaker 2 (06:58):
Right around the corner, and Damira.
Speaker 1 (07:00):
Apple recently hosted its worldwide Developers Conference and there are
a lot of exciting announcements.
Speaker 2 (07:06):
Are there any new software features students.
Speaker 1 (07:08):
Should look forward to that might help stay productive or organized?
Speaker 4 (07:11):
Yeah, so we were super excited about all of the announcements.
I do have a few that I think are really
really special. So in terms of iPad os twenty six,
now we have windowing that has been completely redesigned to
deliver a more powerful and flexible experience. So imagine that
you're using a variety of tools on your iPad. Now
you can control, you can arrange view and organize the windows,
(07:32):
making it even easier in a multitask and work across
apps which we love. And then coming to Mac os Tahoe,
there's a great update coming to Spotlight which makes it
even easier for you to find.
Speaker 8 (07:42):
What you're looking for on your Mac.
Speaker 4 (07:44):
Right, we've all been there, So now there are new
filtering options that allow you to narrow in the search
that you can find exactly which pdf you were looking
for from that study session or that exact email from
your professor. It's built in to be really easy to
use and help you find what you're looking for.
Speaker 2 (07:58):
Wonderful.
Speaker 1 (07:59):
Just a couple more questions for you, jamiro and we'll
let you get on your way because I know you're
very busy this time of year. Apple stores offer, of course,
more than just product support. Tell us a little bit
about the free learning sessions that are available to customers.
Speaker 8 (08:12):
Absolutely, and we're never too busy for you.
Speaker 4 (08:14):
So yeah, we have lots of great learning experiences in
our stores. So once you do get your Mac or
your iPad first, we can help you get it set
up entirely. So whether it's your first Mac, or you
have a Mac now and you to transfer all your
data or from your old iPad to your new iPad.
Will help make sure that your device is set up
and ready to go when you leave. And then if
you're interested in learning more about your new device, we
(08:35):
have free today at Apple sessions in every single one
of our Apple stores that help you make the most
out of that new product. So definitely come in and
see us again. They're all free and just help you
learn more.
Speaker 1 (08:45):
Last question for you, Jamaira. Where can listeners go to
learn more and take advantage, of course of all the
education officers excuse me? Last question for you, Jamaira. And finally,
where can listeners go to learn more to take advantage
of all the education offers we talked about?
Speaker 4 (08:59):
Well, please please, if you do have a local Apple store,
come down and see us, Come say hi. We are
here to support you and help you make all of
these back to school decisions. And if you don't have
a local Apple store nearby, you can definitely visit us
on Apple dot com. That's where you can see all
the details about that college student offer that I mentioned.
You can learn about the education pricing and trade in options,
so Please go to the website Apple dot com or
(09:21):
come in and see us and we'll get you all
set up to go back to school.
Speaker 1 (09:24):
Great insights, Jamira, It's clear that with right tools and guidance,
families can really kind of set their students up for
a successful and productive school year, whether you're buying your
first device or upgrading for college apples, back to school
offers and support resources, as we heard, make that process
much easier and a little bit more exciting too. Jamirah Austin,
program lead at Apple Retail, thank you so much for
(09:44):
joining us.
Speaker 8 (09:45):
Thank you again for having me in.
Speaker 4 (09:46):
Good luck with your kids and going back to school yourself.
Speaker 9 (09:48):
Appreciate it.
Speaker 1 (09:49):
Coming up paying a little bit more for that beef
this summer that you want to throw on a grill,
We'll find out why, what's being done to bring it
back down. I'm scum Fitzgerald, and you're listening too, Can Tucky.
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to go.
Speaker 1 (10:32):
Welcome back to Kentucky Focus. I'm Scott Fitzgerald. Beef prices
are sizzling, not just on the grill. The cost of
ground beef hitting all time high in May, and your
favorite cuts aren't far behind. What's driving the record breaking
rise and what does it mean for ranchers, retailers, and
the rest of us at the Country Store Today, we're
joined by Andrew Koppen, a cattle industry expert and CEO
(10:54):
of ranch Bot who works directly with ranchers feeling the
pressure from drought and dwindling herd. Sign does this do
the long term economic issues shaping the future of American beef?
Andrew brings a perspective Well you don't want to miss
And first of all, Andrew, thanks for taking time to
join us.
Speaker 9 (11:10):
Great to be here with you. Scott, thanks for having me.
Speaker 1 (11:12):
You bet my friend, and tell me a little bit
about ranch Bomb. What do you guys do there?
Speaker 7 (11:16):
Yeah, so, Ranchbot's remote monitoring company that monitors water for ranchers.
Ranchers spent a lot of time driving to check Water
every day throughout the summer.
Speaker 9 (11:26):
And you know, we automate.
Speaker 7 (11:27):
That for them and put it on their cell phone
so they don't have to drive to check Water all day.
They can work on more important things like getting a
better price for their beef.
Speaker 1 (11:36):
Sure, so you know a thing or two about what
we're about to talk about, Andrew, Let's start with the headlines.
Beef prices up more than sixteen percent from last year.
Speaker 2 (11:44):
What are the biggest forces behind the surge?
Speaker 7 (11:46):
Yeah, Well, underlying the surge, Scott, is the traditional forces
of supply and demand. We find ourselves in a pretty
unique position where we've got the lowest cattle herd since
the nineteen fifties and sixties, and demand for beef as
a product with US consumers is booming. There's burger chains
and steakhouses down every freeway. US consumers love beef. I
(12:09):
don't blame them. I love it too.
Speaker 1 (12:11):
Right, we're joined now by Andrew copp and he, of
course is the CEO of Ranch Biten.
Speaker 2 (12:16):
We're talking about the rising costs of beef.
Speaker 1 (12:19):
And Andrew, how much of this price increase is tied
to the shrinking size? Maybe of cattle herds and what's
causing that decline.
Speaker 7 (12:25):
Yeah, I think if you think, you know, we're sort
of back at the same levels as we were with
beef cattle at sort of eighty seven million head of cattle.
We were back there in sort of nineteen fifties, nineteen sixties.
But back then there was you know, there's only one
hundred and eighty two million people in the US versus
today's you know, three hundred and forty million, and I'm
(12:46):
pretty sure we.
Speaker 9 (12:47):
Didn't have all the chain stores and things that we
have today.
Speaker 7 (12:51):
So when you think that the US consumer, average US
consumer consumes about fifty eight to sixty pounds of beef
per annum, you know we're going to produce a lot
of beef. So when you combine the effects of drought,
weather volatility, which has impaired ranchers growing their herds and
(13:11):
while they're trying to contemporaneously keep up with demand, it's
you know, we've really got into this period where prices
are firm. But I mean, I think you know, one
thing to say that they're they're high. I mean, they're
probably where they should be for the US marketplace. You know,
it's great for ranchers to be having a win, and
(13:33):
you know, US consumers are still happy to happy to
buy the product. So I think it's a win win
scenario at the moment. We've just got other external forces
that could come into play which could send prices higher.
Speaker 9 (13:45):
I guess that's sort of what everyone's keeping an eye on.
Speaker 2 (13:47):
Sure.
Speaker 1 (13:48):
Andrew Coppin joins US now CEO of ranch By, and
he works extensively with ranchers across the country, and he's
certainly an expert on what we're talking about today, and
that is.
Speaker 2 (13:57):
The cost of beef.
Speaker 1 (13:59):
And Andrew, as you talk to some of the ranchers
across the country, how are small family run ranches coping
with the higher input costs? And as you mentioned the
extreme weather.
Speaker 7 (14:08):
Yeah, well, I think everyone's got the unique challenges because
you know, whether there's been highly regional there's some people
that have obviously had catastrophic floods and their hearts go
out to the poor folks in Central Texas, whereas you know,
five hours away there's people that have only had one
or two inches of rain. So I think ranchers have
to be more responsive to the weather and the climate
(14:29):
times that they find themselves in when they're assessing their pastures,
and obviously pastures determine how many cattle you can graze
in your operation, so you know, weather and the size
of the cattle herd are inextricably linked. Obviously, we've got
input prices are pretty high. I mean most ranches I
talk to them, we look after about twelve thousand ranches
(14:51):
across the USA. I've never met a rancher that has
got an abundance of good staff, so finding good people
is hard. The cost of the F two fifty to
is not cheap, the wear and tear on the vehicles
not cheap, and feed prices if you run out a
pasture are expensive. So the input costs are high, which
means ranchers have to be more vigilant around their operations.
(15:11):
They don't want to overstock, they don't have too many cattle.
And yet you know, obviously I haven't met too many
that wouldn't love to have more right now at these prices,
So it's a balancing act. But obviously higher prices ultimately
are good for ranchers. But still, like everyone, they're going
to have to run a good business, and you know,
(15:33):
technology like ours is helping them be more efficient and
more productive in their operations.
Speaker 1 (15:38):
Again, Andrew Koppen joining us. He's CEO of ranch Bidy
knows a thing or two about working with ranchers, and
we're talking about the future of beef, the big picture
and sort of what prices will look like. How is
technology like the kind that ranch B provides helping ranchers
adapt to the challenges that they're facing now in twenty
twenty five, I think, like.
Speaker 7 (15:56):
Most sectors on the planet that have grown with technolog
it doesn't matter if you think about the medical profession,
or motor vehicles or any other industry, you know there's
been massive technology innovation. We've certain billions of dollars trying
to work out how to grow a better cow. But
we're now going into an era where we have to
have technology that's how to run a better ranch because
(16:19):
you know, ranches will have less less people and they
will need to do more. And the pressure the macro environment,
of course, is we have to try and think how
we're going to grow the food base by twenty five
or thirty percent over the next few decades. So ranches,
like all of us, all need to think, how do
I do this more efficiently? How to I increase productivity
(16:39):
without increasing costs. And so we are seeing an eerr
a really good ranch technology like ranch bot and other
out there. Whether it's automatically weighing cattle using computer vision
and AI, or better assessing pastures and soil using satellite telemetry.
There's a range of technologies, and I think a stute
(17:00):
ranchers will get onto them early and make sure that
their operations are as profitable and productive as they can be.
Speaker 1 (17:06):
We're having a great conversation with Andrew Company is the
CEO of ranch By, and he knows the thing or
two about helping farmers as we deal with extreme weather
conditions and other elements that are well kind of raising
the cost of beef and they're trying to keep that
cost down for us as the consumer. You know, Andrew,
you talk a little bit about some of the small
ranchers who exit the market because of the conditions, Who
(17:28):
or what is replacing them.
Speaker 9 (17:29):
I mean, look, I think that's a choice.
Speaker 7 (17:31):
If people are going to do that, I mean, they're
either going to have to adapt and change and use
technology and find better ways to do things, or they're
going to be become non competitive and have to you know,
and possibly exit. I mean, I think, you know, what
I've seen is, you know, the people that have adopted
to change and have used technology have become more profitable,
(17:52):
financially stronger, and they've ended up buying their neighbors out
and expanding their operations. So I guess there is a
little bit of getting bigger and economies of scale, finding
the right size for your operation, you know, because it
may be that running you know, fifteen or twenty cows
is only marginal and it's a secondary income.
Speaker 9 (18:10):
It's not enough to survive, so some people might decide
to give it up.
Speaker 7 (18:13):
But most people I know just love the whole lifestyle
of ranching and having cattle around and making that part
of their life. So there's choices to be made as
to whether it's a lifestyle thing or whether it's actually
a business and you really want to focus on making
money out of it.
Speaker 1 (18:29):
Andrew Coppin joins us. He's CEO of ranch Bot. We're
talking about the future of beef where it's at now,
and of course how they're coping with different weather conditions,
and you can find more information on their website about
the good work that they do. And just a couple
more questions for you, Andrew before we let you go,
and you know, are we likely to see prices continue
to wake up in twenty twenty six or is this
(18:51):
mainly just a temporary spake.
Speaker 7 (18:53):
The current challenge we've got is to combine with a
low herd and high demand. We've also had the closing
of the Mexican border, which is the source of beef
cattle for.
Speaker 9 (19:02):
The United States.
Speaker 7 (19:04):
On an average year, we import about a million beef
cattle into the US from Mexico. So at the moment
that borders and that trade is closed to prevent a
biohazard in New World screw worm, which I think is
very sensible to protect.
Speaker 9 (19:20):
The US beef industry and livestock industry.
Speaker 7 (19:23):
But when you've suddenly taken a minion cattle a year
out of the marketplace, of course, that's another pressure, upside
pressure on pricing. Depending how long that matter prevails and
how long it's seem suitable to protect the border, that
supply will be short So the US will probably have
to look to import grinding beef and other beef products
(19:44):
from other safe countries that have got high quality product
and that still will not diminish in any way. Shape
or form the price that the average US ranch is getting.
Speaker 9 (19:54):
For their high quality beef.
Speaker 7 (19:56):
So at the moment, no one can really see any
major reason why the price US as would fall materially
throughout history. It really comes down to some sort of
economic events where either beef prices get too high and
consumer demand backs off, or the consumer's circumstances changed, Like
you know, if inflation gets higher and higher and people
(20:17):
have to make choices about whether they're going to eat
steak or chicken or some other protein, that's more likely
to be the things we're considering.
Speaker 9 (20:24):
In twenty twenty.
Speaker 1 (20:25):
Six, outstanding again thanks to Andrew, Company's CEO of ranch Byte,
helping us understand the economic and environmental storm behind.
Speaker 2 (20:33):
America's beef prices.
Speaker 1 (20:34):
Of course, as ranchers continue to adapt to drought, shrinking
herds and the raising costs, well, the story is becoming
a bit more complex and more urgent. And Andrew, you've
done a great job at outlining that for us. If
folks listening right now want more information on not only
just yourself, but on what ranch Bite does, where can
they go?
Speaker 9 (20:52):
Yeah, thanks Scott, it's been great chatting with you.
Speaker 7 (20:54):
Yeah, you can find more information about ranch pot and
remote monitoring a ranch dash and bot.
Speaker 2 (21:00):
Andrew, thank you for your time, my friend.
Speaker 1 (21:02):
Maybe let's catch up in a little bit and see
where these prices are at in just a few months.
Speaker 2 (21:06):
And see where we're going from that direction.
Speaker 1 (21:08):
Shall we look forward to it coming up? Or flipping
the calendar to August? That means it's so most time
for football. We got plenty of college football on tap. Well,
take a look at the upcoming season. I'm Scott Fitzgerald.
You're listening to Kentucky Focus.
Speaker 11 (21:26):
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in our favorite song, you can't imagine life without them.
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It's time to sound like a broken record. Tell all
(21:48):
your friends and family I love you. Get screened. Visit
cancer dot org slash get screened to learn more.
Speaker 1 (22:00):
Come back to Kentucky Focus. So I'm Scott Fitzgerald. With
college football practices officially underway run the state, there's a
renewed sense of energy as stadiums in locker rooms from
Murray to Morehead, from Bowling Green to Louisville. Well gear
out for what promises to be, of course, another competitive
and emotional season. Let's start in Lexington, where Kentucky Wildcats
head coach Mark Stoops addressed the media at UK's annual
(22:22):
Team Media Days Steps, reflecting on last year's disappointing four
to eight finish, but said this year brings a new
purpose and more importantly, new personnel.
Speaker 12 (22:30):
Well, after you're coming off a season like that, I
feel like it was needed in certain places, and that's
a good thing. We needed to continue to develop the
young players in our program, and obviously we needed to
attack the portal. Obviously that's a higher number than we've
ever had here. Again, I felt like it was necessary.
Speaker 1 (22:48):
The Wildcats added twenty six players through the transfer portal,
the most in program history, including thirteen Power five starters.
Steeps says the additions aren't just about on the field talent,
but about.
Speaker 2 (22:58):
Rebuilding the team's and identity.
Speaker 1 (23:01):
Kentucky will open the season and then on August thirty
at that home against Toledo. Meanwhile, Louisville two offensive stars
have landed on the Maxwell Award Watch Liz, highlighting the
top college football players in the nation. Running Back Isaac Brown,
last year's ACC Rookie of the Year, returns after rushing
for over one thousand yards and telling over fifteen hundred
dollars purpose yards with twelve touchdowns. Turning him is quarterback
(23:24):
Miller Moss, who transferred from Southern cal where he threw
for two thousand, five hundred and fifty five yards and
eighteen touchdowns over nine starts. Cards offense could be one
of the most electric in the ACC. Louisville will open
its season hosting Eastern Kentucky.
Speaker 2 (23:39):
We're in Richmond.
Speaker 1 (23:40):
The Colonels made a strong showing at the United Athletic
Conference Media Day in Nashville. The Colonels landed a league
high six players on the preseason All Conference team, including
running back Brydon Latham and wide receiver Marcus Cowwise.
Speaker 2 (23:52):
Junior.
Speaker 1 (23:53):
Eastern was picked to finish third in the UAC preseason
coaches polled. They'll open the season August thirtieth, again at Louisville.
Home opener is set for September sixth in Bowen Green,
Western Kentucky's a Maverick McIvor also grabbed national attention the
Maxwell Ward List on a ree transferred from Abilene Christian,
where he passed for over eight thousand yards and sixty
(24:13):
three touchdowns across three seasons. Western begins their season a
week early. It is a Week zero matchup at home
against Sam Houston on August twenty third. That game will
be televised nationally by CBS Sports Network with a kickoff
set for six pm Central in the FCS spotlight the
Murray State Racers earned during their third year in the
Missouri Valley Football Conference and their second straight under.
Speaker 2 (24:34):
Head coach Jody Wright.
Speaker 1 (24:36):
Coach Wright and players Jim Ogle and Juwan Northington represented
the Racers at league media days, taking part in interviews
and also a special community service event for feeding South Dakota.
With more than seventy new players on their roster, including
fifty six freshmen, Right admits that they're making steps to.
Speaker 2 (24:52):
Close the gap, but it's going to take some time.
Speaker 1 (24:54):
Among Murray's preseason standouts this year, running back Juan Northington.
He returns with one hun ninety five career rushing yards,
averaging about four and a half yards per carry. Quarterback
Jim Ogele, who appeared in four games last season.
Speaker 2 (25:07):
Also wide receiver JK.
Speaker 1 (25:09):
Carter who had forty two catches for five hundred and
sixty yards, and punter Tom O'Hara, who averaged in impressive
nearly forty five yards per punt as a freshman. Racers
will begin the season August thirtieth at East Tennessee. Their
home owner is set for September sixth against Southeast during
Louisiana's part of Family Weekend. Homecoming will fall on November
first against Southern Illinois. This year also marks the forty
(25:31):
ninth anniversary of the beloved racer ie tradition where thoroughbred
circles the track after every Murray touchdown.
Speaker 2 (25:38):
Twenty twenty five, Junckie is Breece.
Speaker 1 (25:40):
Mohan, a marketing major from Mayfield and finally in Morihead,
a Kentucky legend, is being honored in a big way.
Morehead State will officially re Dame It's football facility, phil
Simms Stadium during homecoming weekend on October eighteenth. Sims, of course,
at nineteen seventies standout at Morehead State, went onto a
Hall of Fame NFL career, flitting a Super Bowl MVP
(26:01):
and two Pro.
Speaker 2 (26:02):
Bowl appearances with the New York Giants.
Speaker 1 (26:05):
These remain deeply involved with the university, from mentoring players
to hosting summer camps and donating hundreds of thousands of
dollars to support MSU athletics. University of President doctor J.
Morgan says the stadium renaming will be the centerpiece of
a homecoming celebration that reminds alumni that quote the Morhead
State experience last a lifetime. The original stadium name, Jane
(26:27):
Stadium will remain honored through commemerative plaque inside the entrance.
So with fall camp getting underway across the state, Kentucky's
college football teams from gearing.
Speaker 2 (26:36):
Up, each with their own homes, questions.
Speaker 1 (26:39):
And rising stars from revamped rosters in Lexington, to youth
movement in Murray, quarterback depth in Louisville, and attribute to
a legend in Moorhead, twenty twenty five fall season is
shaving up to be one worth watching. I'm Scott Fitzgerald.
You're listening to Kentucky Focus. We're back to wrap things
up after this.
Speaker 5 (26:57):
Only one in five people with autism are employed, despite
many having the skill set and desire to work.
Speaker 4 (27:02):
Maybe it's because employers don't know what kind of jobs
they can do, Like, what about a programmer?
Speaker 5 (27:07):
That's a job for someone with autism.
Speaker 2 (27:09):
How about a healthcare worker?
Speaker 5 (27:10):
Yep, that is too People with autism can do a
lot of different jobs but often get overlooked due to
outdated stigmas. Introducing win by Autism Speaks, we help businesses
lead the way in inclusive hiring.
Speaker 8 (27:22):
What about a ranch hand.
Speaker 5 (27:24):
To learn more, go to Autism Speaks dot org, slash win.
Speaker 2 (27:29):
And that's going to do it. For this week's Kentucky Focus.
Speaker 1 (27:31):
Thanks again to Jamirah Austin from Apple Retail for walking
us through how families and educators can use technology more
efficiently this school year and how to take advantage of
Apple's education pricing and back to school deals, of course
before the September thirtieth deadline. Appreciation as well to Andrew
a copy of Ranch Bond, who helped us understand why
beef prices are hitting historic highs and the major challenges
(27:53):
facing small family ranchers across the country.
Speaker 2 (27:56):
And as college.
Speaker 1 (27:56):
Football kicks off, it's fall camp around the season of
all the stories and the student athletes shaping programs right
here at home, from the Kernels to the Racers, from
the Cats to the Cards. We're just getting started, and
for more information on what you've heard today, you can
simply visit any of our social media pages or our website.
For all of us here at the Kentucky News Network
(28:17):
and of course Kentucky Focus, I'm Scott Fitzgerald saying, make
it a great week, be careful, and of course, as always,
take care of one another.
Speaker 2 (28:25):
We'll talk to you next week on Kentucky Focus.
Speaker 3 (28:28):
Kentucky Focus on the Kentucky News Network, the show that
looks at issues affecting the Commonwealth and its citizens. We
cover state politics and history, human interest stories, sports, and
even entertainment. It's Kentucky Focus on kNN.
Speaker 13 (28:45):
Snakes, Zombie's public speaking. The list of fears is endless,
but the real danger is in your hand when you're
behind the wheel. Distracted driving is what's really scary and
even deadly. Ice Forward, Don't Drive Distracted. Brought to you
by NITZA and the ad count.
Speaker 8 (29:04):
Drivers.
Speaker 14 (29:04):
Austin centered here as a NASCAR Cup Seriers driver of
the number two Discount tire Ford Mustang. There's a few
rules of the road. I like to tell my family
and friends. Tire pressure is critical to safety because underinflated
tires are more likely to fail. Plus properly inflated tires
will give you better gas mileage. Make sure to check
your tire pressure at least once a month, or stopped
by a local tire retailer for an air chain.
Speaker 2 (29:26):
A message from the US Tire Manufacturers Association
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