Roberta went to Marquez Elementary school, to Paul Revere, and to Pali High, and continued her education at Willis Business College. Upon graduation in 1972, she landed a job with the Brown Brothers, the then owners of the Palisadian-Post. The newspaper was later sold to the "Small Newspaper Group" in the early 80's and remained in the same hands until last year.
Growing up in these early days of the Palisades was an experience in open spaces, wild hillsides and canyons, family picnics, lots of enjoyment in the Palisades Park, the 4th of July Parade, trips to the beach, games in the ocean. Much of the Marquez Knolls was still under development by the Lachman family and a ready made playground for the many kids growing up in the neighborhood.
The family owned the Mobil station in the village. Roberta's father, Rocco, was always busy with community affairs, may it be with the Optimist Club, or the Chamber of Commerce, the Palisades Park, or the Parade. He played a significant role in the early beautification efforts in the Palisades Village, planting the first trees on Swarthmore. Following her father around town shaped Roberta's penchant for community participation later in life.
She chaired or participated in almost every organization in town, the number is impressive, but her most beloved and memorable experience was with the Citizen of the Year Award. Under her and her good friend Joan Graves leadership, it became the gala event of the year with every Who-Is-Who in the Palisades attending. Each year it became the World Premier of an ever more entertaining stage extravaganza roasting and honoring the newly crowned Citizen. Roberta served as Chairman for over 20 years.
A cursory overview of Roberta's many credits and achievements:
Roberta has been an active member continuously of the Pacific Palisades Chamber of Commerce for over 30 years and was President in 2000-2001. She received The Chamber’s Mort Farberow Business Person of the Year Award in 2006.
Roberta was instrumental in the success of many community events, just to name a few.
Original Auto Show (for 9 years),
Village Fair
Holiday Ho! Ho! Ho!
Village Fair
Holiday Ho! Ho! Ho!
Red Raffle Ticket
Merchant Committee
Moonlight Madness
Community EXPO Auto Exhibit Chairman
Chamber Board/Executive/Advisor positions
Chamber Business Directory Committee
Supported the Movies in the Park
Served on the Pali High 50 year Reunion
Member of the Wine tasting committee for the Optimists/Chamber wine tasting event.
Appointed to the board of the Will Rogers Ranch Foundation
