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The Giving Town

Daniel Roberts

The Giving Town Podcast is dedicated to sharing stories of hope and generosity in Newberg, Oregon. We interview the amazing people who are dedicating their lives to make Newberg and the surrounding area an amazing place to live. The Giving Town Podcast is brought to you by The Joyful Roberts Group, a local, family-run real estate team dedicated to serving the Newberg community and beyond.

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20 episodes
Avg 58 min
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S2 · E92
September 4 · 1 hr 10 min
How Newberg High School is Preparing Students for the Future - with Principal Mark Brown
Send us Fan Mail From rising anxiety rates and social media to artificial intelligence and the pressure to choose a relevant career, high school students today are facing challenges unlike any generation before them. In today's episode, Newberg High School Principal Mark Brown shares how our local high school supports students as they navigate this period of their lives. We also discuss Mark's path to becoming principal, the culture of the high school, what he wishes parents knew, advice for students, and his vision for the future of Newberg High School. Links & Resources: To learn more about Newberg High School, visit their Facebook page. Subscribe to our newsletter for podcast notifications, Living in Newberg YouTube videos, local updates, and homeowner tips This podcast is brought to you by The Joyful Roberts Group, a local family-run real estate team led by Daniel Roberts. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell your home anywhere around Newberg and beyond, we would love to serve as your real estate advisors. Feel free to learn more about us at TheJoyfulRobertsGroup.com. The Joyful Roberts Group Support the show
S2 · E91
August 18 · 39 min
The Story of Jem 100 - with Tom Vondrachek
Send us Fan Mail Tom and Linda Vondrachek bought Jem 100 in 1989 and for 35 years they operated Newberg’s iconic 1950’s-style diner. Not only did they serve thousands of local families with amazing and affordable food, they were also some of Newberg’s most generous business owners. Today, the restaurant is under new family ownership, but all of the things that made Jem 100 special have remained the same. It’s not just a place to grab a burger or an ice cream cone, but a gathering place and a business that has consistently supported local schools, youth programs, community events, and fundraisers. In 2025, Jem 100 was recognized as the Newberg Chamber of Commerce Business of the Year. In today’s episode, we’ll hear about the history of Jem 100, what it’s like taking over a restaurant with such a long history in the community, and the importance of keeping a local business connected to the people it serves. Links & Resources: To learn more about Jem 100, visit their Facebook page. Subscribe to our newsletter for podcast notifications, Living in Newberg YouTube videos, local updates, and homeowner tips This podcast is brought to you by The Joyful Roberts Group, a local family-run real estate team led by Daniel Roberts. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell your home anywhere around Newberg and beyond, we would love to serve as your real estate advisors. Feel free to learn more about us at TheJoyfulRobertsGroup.com. The Joyful Roberts Group Support the show
S2 · E90
July 28 · 1 hr 10 min
The Future of Newberg-Dundee Schools - with Superintendent Dave Parker
Send us Fan Mail The recent levy for the Newberg-Dundee school district may not have passed, but it raised important questions throughout our community. What happens now? How will students, teachers, and families be affected? And what does the future hold for Newberg-Dundee schools? In this episode, Newberg-Dundee School District Superintendent Dave Parker joins me to discuss the district's current financial challenges, what led to the recent levy, and what comes next. We also talk about the broader purpose of education, preparing students for an ever-changing world, and how artificial intelligence may shape the classroom of the future. In our conversation, you'll learn: Dave's background and what brought him to Newberg-Dundee How Oregon school funding works and why districts across the state are facing budget challenges The factors that led to Newberg-Dundee's budget shortfall Questions surrounding administrative staffing and district finances What the failed levy means for the upcoming school year How the district defines a great education beyond reading, writing, and math The opportunities and challenges AI presents for education What gives Dave hope for the future of Newberg-Dundee schools Whether you're a parent, grandparent, taxpayer, or simply someone who cares about the future of our community, this conversation provides valuable insight into one of Newberg's most important institutions. Links & Resources: To learn more about the Newberg-Dundee School District, visit Newberg-Dundee Public Schools. Subscribe to our newsletter for podcast notifications, Living in Newberg YouTube videos, local updates, and homeowner tips This podcast is brought to you by The Joyful Roberts Group, a local family-run real estate team led by Daniel Roberts. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell your home anywhere around Newberg and beyond, we would love to serve as your real estate advisors. Feel free to learn more about us at TheJoyfulRobertsGroup.com. The Joyful Roberts Group Support the show
S2 · E89
June 9 · 58 min
More Than Books: Newberg's Public Library - with Korie Buerkle
Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Newberg Public Library Director Korie Buerkle shares how the library serves our community, how it has evolved over the years, and why public libraries continue to play such an important role in helping people learn, grow, and connect. In our conversation, you'll learn: How Korie's journey led her to become Director of the Newberg Public Library The many services and resources the library provides beyond books How the library supports children, families, students, and seniors The role libraries play in promoting literacy and lifelong learning Some of the library's most popular programs and hidden gems How the library is adapting to changing technology and community needs Ways community members can get involved and support the library's mission Whether you're a lifelong library user or haven't stepped through the doors in years, this conversation offers a fresh look at one of Newberg's most valuable community resources. Links & Resources: To learn more or to support Newberg Public Library, visit: https://www.newbergoregon.gov/library/ Subscribe to our newsletter for podcast notifications, Living in Newberg YouTube videos, local updates, and homeowner tips This podcast is brought to you by The Joyful Roberts Group, a local family-run real estate team led by Daniel Roberts. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell your home anywhere around Newberg and beyond, we would love to serve as your real estate advisors. Feel free to learn more about us at TheJoyfulRobertsGroup.com. The Joyful Roberts Group Support the show
S2 · E88
May 27 · 59 min
Providing Hope for the Hurting - with Hope Chaplain
Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Leo Keelan from Hope Chaplain shares about his world as a Public Safety Chaplain. From collaborating alongside our local first responders to filling the critical gaps in crisis care, this episode will help you understand what it truly means to show up for people when they need it most. In today’s episode, Leo shares: How Hope Chaplain got started and the personal journey that led to this crisis work. What a typical week looks like when your job revolves around navigating trauma. The art of how to actually show up for someone in their worst moments. How they work hand-in-hand with our local police and fire departments to build a community safety net. The gaps we currently face in community crisis care and how Newberg benefits from filling them. Practical, actionable ways that you can get involved and support this critical mission. Links & Resources: To learn more or to support Hope Chaplain, visit: www.hopechaplain.com Subscribe to our newsletter for podcast notifications, Living in Newberg YouTube videos, local updates, and homeowner tips This podcast is brought to you by The Joyful Roberts Group, a local family-run real estate team led by Daniel Roberts. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell your home anywhere around Newberg and beyond, we would love to serve as your real estate advisors. Feel free to learn more about us at TheJoyfulRobertsGroup.com. The Joyful Roberts Group Support the show
S2 · E87
April 28 · 1 hr 10 min
The Story of 5Rock Ranch - with Scott Bradley
Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Scott Bradley shares the story behind 5Rock Ranch, a nonprofit located on a 108-acre property in Yamhill County that provides a place of healing and refuge for families and individuals facing extremely difficult circumstances. In our conversation, you’ll learn: How the ranch got started and the vision behind it The kinds of experiences and programs they offer for kids and families Stories of lives that have been impacted and transformed Why spaces like this are so needed in today’s world Some unique challenges being faced by the ranch How you can get involved and support the mission To learn more about 5 Rock Ranch or find ways to get involved, visit their website at www.5rockranch.com. This podcast is brought to you by The Joyful Roberts Group, a local family-run real estate team led by Daniel Roberts. To subscribe to our newsletter, click the link. The Joyful Roberts Group Support the show
S2 · E86
February 11 · 1 hr 30 min
State of the City 2026 - with Newberg Mayor Bill Rosacker and City Manager Will Worthey
Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Newberg Mayor Bill Rosacker and City Manager Will Worthey join the podcast to talk about the current state of our city. We discuss what’s going well, what has changed over the past several years, some of the the challenges Newberg is facing, and how decisions are made when it comes to growth, infrastructure, housing, and the city budget. We also talk about the roles of the City Manager and Mayor, how residents can stay informed and involved, and what both leaders are hopeful about as they look ahead. If you’ve ever wondered how city government works behind the scenes and how it impacts your everyday life, this conversation will give you a better understanding. Some of the other topics discussed include: Collina housing project density Urban growth boundary Traffic light cameras Newberg's focus on debt reduction Will's new contract with the city The old mill site Newberg water bill costs River Street project Riverfront master plan To learn more about the City of Newberg, visit www.newbergoregon.gov This podcast is brought to you by The Joyful Roberts Group, a local family-run real estate team led by Daniel Roberts. To subscribe to our newsletter, click the link. The Joyful Roberts Group Support the show
S2 · E85
Dec 12, 2025 · 54 min
Celebrating 20 Years of Chapters Books & Coffee - with Maureen Rogers
Send us Fan Mail Chapters Books & Coffee has been a cornerstone of downtown Newberg for two decades, and in this episode, Owner Maureen Rogers shares the story behind it. We talk about how Chapters originally got started, how she and her husband Bill became the owners, and what it’s been like to run a community-minded bookstore and coffee shop while raising a family. Maureen also shares how she chooses the books they carry, why having books is still essential in a digital world, and the role Chapters plays in Newberg today. We dig into some of her favorite memories, the businesses Chapters has helped support along the way, and what the 20-year anniversary milestone means to her. This podcast is brought to you by The Joyful Roberts Group, a local family-run real estate team led by Daniel Roberts. To subscribe to our newsletter, click the link above. The Joyful Roberts Group Support the show
S2 · E84
Oct 23, 2025 · 52 min
Fascinating Stories from Newberg's History - with Author George P. Edmonston
Send us Fan Mail George P. Edmonston is a writer and historian who spent years writing stories about Newberg's history in his Newberg Graphic column, "Tales from the Grubby End." He then collected many of those stories and included them in his book, Stories from the Grubby End. He was also the editor of OSU’s alumni magazine, the Oregon Stater for many years. In this episode, George shares some of his favorite stories and characters from Newberg's past along with the inspiration behind the series. We also discuss how George became fascinated with history from a young age and how his life journey brought him to write historical stories about Newberg. You can buy his book online or check out a copy at the library. This podcast is brought to you by The Joyful Roberts Group, a local family-run real estate team led by Daniel Roberts. To subscribe to our newsletter, click the link above. The Joyful Roberts Group Support the show
S2 · E83
Oct 2, 2025 · 52 min
Inspiring Youth and Encouraging Families - with See Ya Later Foundation
Send us Fan Mail The See Ya Later Foundation began with a simple phrase from Scott Banke, who would say “See ya later” instead of goodbye during his battle with cancer. His courage and positive attitude left behind a legacy of hope, courage, and faith. After his passing, his mom, Carmen Banke, and their family launched the foundation to carry that spirit forward. Today, the foundation awards scholarships to students, hosts youth inspiration camps, and supports families facing medical crises — impacting thousands of kids and parents in Newberg and beyond. In this episode, Carmen shares: The story of her son Scott and how his words became the foundation’s mission What makes See Ya Later youth camps and scholarships unique Stories of encouragement and lives changed through the foundation’s outreach The role of faith, family, and community in carrying forward Scott’s legacy How you can get involved and support this mission of hope To learn more or get involved, visit seeyalater.org This episode is brought to you by The Joyful Roberts Group, a local family-run real estate team led by Daniel Roberts. To subscribe to our newsletter, click the link above. Support the show
S2 · E82
Sep 3, 2025 · 51 min
The Story of Newberg’s Volunteer Superintendent – with Paula Radich
Send us Fan Mail In mid‑2024, the Newberg-Dundee School District uncovered a multi‑million‑dollar budget shortfall and the sitting superintendent went on leave. With the school year looming and finances in shambles, the school board needed someone who knew the community and could restore stability. Retired educator and former superintendent Paula Radich volunteered to serve as interim superintendent from June through October 2024. She led the district through deep budget cuts, worked to balance the books, and helped staff and parents refocus on students—all while declining a salary for her work. For her efforts, Paula was named as Newberg’s 2024 Volunteer of the Year by Chehalem Valley Chamber of Commerce. In this episode, Paula shares her experience stepping up to volunteer as the Newberg-Dundee School District’s superintendent and what led to her decision. In our conversation, you’ll learn about: Paula’s lifelong journey in education What compelled her to step into the superintendent role without pay How she and a small volunteer team stabilized the budget, navigated divisive politics, and kept students at the center of every decision Why she believes volunteering is part of a full life Practical advice for parents and community members looking to support schools What gives Paula hope for Newberg’s future and its children To learn more about the Newberg School District and explore volunteer opportunities, visit https://www.newberg.k12.or.us/. This episode is brought to you by The Joyful Roberts Group, a local family-run real estate team led by Daniel Roberts. To subscribe to our newsletter, click the link above. Support the show
S2 · E81
Jul 29, 2025 · 58 min
The Legacy of George Fox University - with President Robin Baker
Send us Fan Mail President Robin Baker has been leading George Fox University since 2007 and in that time, George Fox has grown to become the largest private university in Oregon. George Fox is also consistently ranked among the top 3 Christian universities in Oregon. President Baker has also won numerous awards and in 2023 was named by Portland Business Journal as one of its top executives of the year. Baker also sits on numerous national commissions and committees, and is widely recognized as a leader in Christian higher education. In this episode, President Baker shares about the history of George Fox University and how the university impacts the city of Newberg. In our conversation, you’ll learn: How George Fox University began Why George Fox the person was such an important figure in history How George Fox impacts the city of Newberg Details on the new childcare center being built in partnership with A-dec Challenges facing Christian colleges around the country How AI is affecting higher education and how George Fox is adapting To learn more about George Fox University, visit https://www.georgefox.edu/ This episode is brought to you by The Joyful Roberts Group, a local family-run real estate team led by Daniel Roberts. To subscribe to our newsletter, click the link above. Support the show
S2 · E80
Jul 1, 2025 · 56 min
CPRD’s Exciting Plans for Newberg/Dundee in 2025-26 – with Superintendent Clay Downing
Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Clay Downing, Superintendent of Chehalem Park & Recreation District (CPRD), breaks down the upcoming projects for Newberg and Dundee over the next few years. In our conversation, you’ll learn: What CPRD is and how it works How Clay’s background in planning will help in his new role Current timelines for projects like the Bypass Trail, The Ewing Young Bridge, Renne Field, and Dundee’s new park with a splash pad What’s ahead for Chehalem Glenn golf course, including a potential new clubhouse and nine more holes How CPRD utilizes tax dollars, grants, the CPRD Foundation, and community partners to make projects happen How residents can get involved and stay up to date To learn more about CPRD and explore current projects, view board meetings, or learn how to get involved, visit https://www.cprdnewberg.org/. This episode is brought to you by The Joyful Roberts Group, a local family-run real estate team led by Daniel Roberts. To subscribe to our newsletter, click the link above. Support the show
S2 · E79
May 28, 2025 · 1 hr 16 min
Behind the Scenes of the Newberg-Dundee Police Department - with Police Chief Jeff Kosmicki
Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Jeff Kosmicki, Police Chief of the Newberg-Dundee Police Department, offers an inside look at what it takes to keep Newberg ranked among Oregon’s safest cities. In our conversation, you’ll learn: How Jeff started his career in police work What it’s like being behind the wheel of a patrol car What it was like in the wake of the “defund the police” movement The department’s overall philosophy How new technology makes officers more effective Common misconceptions and myths How the D.A.R.E. programs build trust in the next generation And much more To learn more about the Newberg-Dundee Police Department, visit https://www.newbergoregon.gov/police/ This episode is brought to you by The Joyful Roberts Group, a local family-run real estate team led by Daniel Roberts. To subscribe to our newsletter, click the link above. Support the show
S2 · E78
May 14, 2025 · 53 min
The Story of the Don’t Give Up Movement - with Amy Wolff
Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Amy Wolff, founder of the Don’t Give Up Movement, explains how a May 2017 initiative to place 20 encouraging yard signs around Newberg evolved into a global campaign. In our conversation, you will learn: The origin story: what compelled Amy to act on that rainy afternoon The “Science of Hope” framework she outlined in her TED Talk—hope, pathways, agency Key lessons from scaling an at-cost, volunteer-powered operation to 50 states and 27 countries Life-saving testimonials from individuals transformed by the signs How small, unexpected gestures can cause large-scale impact The role of personal agency in creating and sustaining hope To learn more or to support the Don’t Give Up Movement, visit dontgiveupsigns.com Watch Amy’s TED Talk! Buy the book! This episode is brought to you by The Joyful Roberts Group, a local family-run real estate team led by Daniel Roberts. To subscribe to our semi-monthly newsletter, click the link above. Support the show
S2 · E77
Apr 17, 2025 · 50 min
Preventing Child Abuse in Yamhill County - with Juliette's House
Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Russell Mark, President and CEO of Juliette’s House, shares about the life-changing work happening at Yamhill County’s child abuse intervention center. In our conversation, you’ll learn: What Juliette’s House actually does and how it supports children and families How early intervention can change the trajectory of a child’s life The long-term impact of untreated childhood trauma on communities Common misconceptions about child abuse—and the real statistics behind it How schools, churches, and community members can play a role in prevention Stories that reveal just how critical this work is Practical ways to support Juliette’s House or get involved How Yamhill County is setting an example for community collaboration To learn more about Juliette’s House or to support their work, visit www.julietteshouse.org This episode is brought to you by The Joyful Roberts Group, a local family-run real estate team led by Daniel Roberts. To subscribe to our semi-monthly newsletter, click the link above. Support the show
S2 · E76
Mar 19, 2025 · 41 min
Bringing the Community Together - with Newberg Community Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast
Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Di Endicott and Peggy Kilburg share about the Newberg Community Mayor's Prayer Breakfast. During our conversation, you'll learn: The history and origins of the Newberg Mayor's Prayer Breakfast How the prayer breakfast works The importance of prayer in bringing the community together How the event promotes unity despite differing beliefs and perspectives Stories of how prayer has tangibly impacted the lives of community members The vision for the future, including greater inclusivity and involvement of younger generations Practical details on how to get involved or attend the event To learn more about the Newberg Community Mayor's Prayer Breakfast, visit their Facebook page. If you have questions about the event or would like to attend, please contact Endicottdiana@yahoo.com This episode is brought to you by The Joyful Roberts Group, a local family-run real estate team led by Daniel Roberts. Support the show
S2 · E75
Mar 5, 2025 · 46 min
Wine That Makes a Difference - with Dobbes and Wine by Joe
Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Michelle Bolliger with Dobbes Family Winery and Wine by Joe shares how they are using their passion for wine to make a difference in the community. Beyond making great wine, they have created a culture of generosity, supporting both local and national causes and making a meaningful impact. In this episode, you’ll learn: The backstory of Dobbes Family Winery and Wine by Joe Why giving back is a core value of their company How they engage employees in the giving process The difference between writing a check and actually making an impact How generosity strengthens company (and community) culture Practical advice for businesses looking to have generosity become part of their mission To learn more about Dobbes Family Winery and their partners, click here. To learn more about Wine by Joe, click here. This episode is brought to you by The Joyful Roberts Group, a local family-run real estate team led by Daniel Roberts. To learn more about the Living in Newberg YouTube Channel, click the link above. Support the show
S2 · E74
Feb 4, 2025 · 43 min
Resources for Seniors in Newberg - with John and Karen Roberts
Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Seniors Real Estate Specialists John and Karen Roberts share some of the many resources available to seniors in the Newberg area. Many elderly seniors in our community face significant challenges, yet often feel isolated, alone, and are unaware of the resources available to them. John and Karen's hope is that no senior has to face these challenges alone. This episode is brought to you by The Joyful Roberts Group, a local family-run real estate team led by Daniel Roberts. Visit TheJoyfulRobertsGroup.com to learn more. Support the show
S2 · E73
Dec 10, 2024 · 1 hr 18 min
Rising from the Ashes - with Jack Maxwell III
Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Jack Maxwell III shares his incredible story of resilience, redemption, and success. From a childhood marked by severe abuse, neglect, and addiction, Jack overcame numerous challenges to become a thriving business owner and a true community champion. Today, he owns a successful insurance agency, serves on multiple nonprofit boards, and dedicates his life to helping others find hope and a path forward. In this episode, you’ll learn: • The struggles Jack faced growing up and how he rose above them • What fueled his journey from rock bottom to success • The impact of his work in the community and on nonprofit boards • How he uses his story to inspire and support others in their darkest moments • Practical advice for anyone seeking hope and transformation Jack’s story is a powerful reminder that even in the hardest circumstances, it’s possible to rise from the ashes and create a life of purpose and impact. This episode is for anyone who believes in the power of hope, resilience, and giving back. To learn more about Provoking Hope, visit https://provokinghope.com/ This episode is brought to you by The Joyful Roberts Group, a local family-run real estate team led by Daniel Roberts. To learn more about the Living in Newberg YouTube Channel, click the link above. Support the show

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