In this episode of The Boerne Brew, host Jeff Flinn sits down with Dorman Vick, head of the vocational education program at Champion High School, and Michael Etheridge, a local leader deeply involved in community projects. They discuss the critical importance of vocational training, the current shortage of skilled tradespeople, and how programs in Boerne, Texas, are preparing students for successful careers in the trades. The conversation covers the evolution of vocational education, the impact on students' lives, community involvement, and new initiatives to foster entrepreneurship among young tradespeople. If you're interested in education, workforce development, or the future of skilled trades, this episode is a must-listen!

00:00 – Introduction & Host Welcome

00:27 – Guest Introductions: Dorman Vick & Michael Etheridge

01:15 – The State of Vocational Education in Texas

02:45 – Worker Shortages & National Security Concerns

04:21 – The Importance of Trades in Modern Society

06:06 – Changing Perceptions: From "Shop Rats" to Skilled Professionals

08:44 – Forgotten Kids & The Value of Vocational Training

11:54 – The Evolution of the Welding Program at Champion High School

16:36 – Building the Program: Early Days & Community Support

21:05 – Life Lessons Beyond Welding: Character & Confidence

24:44 – Achievements: State Titles & Community Projects

29:46 – Giving Back: Community Service & Local Impact

33:59 – The Need for More Vocational Programs

36:57 – New Initiatives: Straight to the Trades & Entrepreneurship

41:02 – The 11-Week Business Course for Students

44:17 – Expanding the Vision: Involving More Schools & Students

47:15 – The Family Aspect of Vocational Education

49:55 – Success Stories: Students Becoming Business Owners

52:32 – Addressing the National Trades Shortage

54:59 – The Role of Middle School Shop Classes

57:36 – The Basics: Why Hands-On Skills Matter

1:00:55 – Community Teamwork & Program Support

1:05:25 – Statewide Recognition & Future Plans

1:09:54 – Call to Action: Community Involvement & Sponsorship

1:12:13 – Closing Remarks & Farewell

Original Air Date: November 8, 2025, as heard on Boerne Radio 103.9FM

https://www.boernestar.com/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join Jeff Flinn, Managing Editor at the Boerne Star Newspaper, as he sits down with Lizette Jimenez, Director of Boerne Parks and Recreation, to discuss the upcoming Dickens on Main event. Discover the behind-the-scenes planning, new features, family activities, and the community spirit that makes this annual holiday celebration in downtown Boerne so special. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, get all the details you need to make the most of Dickens on Main!

Timeline & Key Moments

00:00 – Introduction: Meet Jeff Flynn and guest Lizette Jimenez
01:10 – What is Dickens on Main? First impressions and event overview
02:10 – Planning and logistics: How the event comes together
02:48 – Sponsorships and community support
03:24 – New features: Big screens and performance broadcasts
04:24 – Ice sculpting and unique performances
06:20 – Event setup: Stages, decorations, and city involvement
08:01 – Street closures and event footprint
09:00 – Changes for this year: Relocating Dickens Village
10:00 – The competitive spirit of Parks & Rec
11:00 – Supporting local businesses and vendors
12:00 – Activities for all ages: Ice slide, train rides, Santa photos
14:00 – Food, music, and the festive atmosphere
16:00 – Tree lighting ceremony: The event’s peak moment
17:00 – Attracting visitors from outside Boerne
18:00 – The spirit of Dickens on Main: Community and memories
19:00 – Personal Christmas wishes and travel
20:00 – Event schedule: When to visit, what to see
21:00 – Live music, vendor bookings, and summer planning
22:00 – The magic of Christmas in Boerne
23:00 – Awards, parades, and crowd sizes
24:00 – Closing remarks and event invitation
25:00 – Outro: Thanks and sign-off

https://www.ci.boerne.tx.us/2490/Dickens-on-Main

Original Air Date: November 15, 2025, as heard on Boerne Radio 103.9FM

https://www.boernestar.com/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

YouTube Timeline

00:00 – Introduction and welcome to Bill Schoening
00:29 – Life on the road as the Spurs’ broadcaster
01:45 – The prep work behind every game
02:45 – Preparing for opponents and updating stats
04:01 – Bill’s early career: Sam Houston State and Texas sports
06:15 – Favorite Spurs players and Manu Ginobili stories
09:13 – Interactions with international players and language anecdotes
11:27 – Writing a reggae song about Turkish basketball
12:58 – Bill’s passion for music and songwriting
15:31 – Musical influences from Philly soul to Bruce Springsteen
18:38 – Meeting Bruce Springsteen and career advice
20:44 – Bill’s songwriting process and collaborations
23:30 – Learning guitar in Austin and lessons with Van Wilkes
25:30 – Friendship and stories with musician Jimmy LaFave
28:17 – Collaborating with other Austin musicians
29:54 – Recent songs and stories behind them
31:30 – Music ministry and working with incarcerated individuals
34:00 – Reflections on compassion and family support
35:55 – Song about Joe Frazier and Philly sports
38:00 – Bill’s vocal impressions and sports announcer stories
41:00 – Impressions of Harry Caray, Bill Walton, and Howard Cosell
44:00 – Closing thoughts and farewell

Original Air Date: November 1, 2025, as heard on Boerne Radio 103.9FM

https://www.boernestar.com/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.