Central Valley Voice is owned and operated by Felicia D. Roberts, a former free-lance writer, operating her own established Media Company, FDR Media Services. Roberts did not just become a business owner over the past 20 years; she has been nurturing this ‘craft’ since the age of nineteen. Roberts took her first dive into the business world when she opened the Causal Inn Restaurant, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. She worked as a sports reporter for the Milwaukee Star, while studying journalism and communication at the Milwaukee Area Technical College. Felicia was born in Sparkman, Arkansas to John and Allie Butler. She moved to Milwaukee, Wisconsin at age 13. In 1978, she moved to Atwater, California. After moving to the Valley she attended Merced College and received an AA Degree. She transferred to CSU Stanislaus (Turlock) where she studied Communication. Roberts, a well-rounded individual immediately got involved with local church organizations. Roberts ventured into numerous projects involving gospel music. One of her stronger business capabilities were managing her sisters called “The Triumph Family Singers.” She has taken them around the country four times, produced two albums and three tapes. Felicia was appointed Minister of Music, for Triumph the Church and Kingdom of God in Christ, throughout the State of California. In 1986, she joined New York Life Insurance Company as an Insurance Underwriter. After 10 years with New York Life, Ms. Roberts started the Central Valley Voice in November 1991. Her accomplishments have not been unnoticed. In 1993, she was named by the Merced Business & Professional Women, “Business Women of the Year”, in 1995; KSEE 24 PORTRAIT OF SUCCESS WARD was presented to her. In 2005, the Merced Chapter of NAACP present her the “EXEMPLAR AWARD” in recognition of exceptional leadership and devoted service, contribution significant to improving Civil and Human Right for all citizens, within Merced County.
