Meet The Board
The mission of the Magnolia Park Merchants Association is to magnify Magnolia Park by supporting businesses, partnering with residents, and connecting with city government for the overall benefit of our unique community.
Ross A. Benson
President
Ross Benson is a professional photographer and co-owner of myBurbank.com. He has lived in Burbank his whole life and knows everything and everyone. He has a deep desire to help Magnolia Park grow and become the place to come when visiting Burbank.
Jeff Ferguson
Vice president
Jeff Ferguson is co-owner of Run Out Groove Records in Magnolia Park. He has lived in Burbank since 2010 and is also the owner and operator of the digital advertising agency, Amplitude Digital. He has held many marketing positions and also teach advanced digital marketing classes at UCLA. Jeff brings these marketing skills as well as his experience as a planner and organizer to the MPMA Board.
Bill Stein
Treasurer
Bill is a resident of Magnolia Park, having moved here from Chicago in 2022. He retired from Bank of America in 2023 after a diverse career at several financial firms including roles in electronic trading, and as CFO, CPA, CIO, and President. He has been married to Dana for over 30 years. She is a Chicago native, a former teacher and she owned and operated a pet food and supplies store, as well as a dog grooming business, for eight years in a Chicago neighborhood. Through that experience, Bill also gained valuable insights into the challenges of small businesses and retail. They have two sons in their early twenties who both live at home. One is currently at UC Riverside majoring in Media and Cultural Studies. Bill enjoys hiking, plays softball and enjoys walks with his dog, Angel, along Magnolia and the Chandler path.
Catalina Perez
Board Member
My name is Catalina Perez Hernandez. My husband and I have owned Four Corners Custom Framing since 1996. The dream of owning our own business brought us to this wonderful area called Magnolia Park. Our first shop was located on Hollywood Way, and then in 2008 we moved to our current location on Magnolia Blvd. My husband’s knowledge of framing and photography was the main reason that pushed us to build this dream. I had planned to become a teacher and got my BA from CSUN. But working in our business gave me the opportunity to have my children with me, and I have truly come to love creating art pieces for all our clients. Four Corners Custom Framing offers framing and photography services to public and film businesses. We are very proud to be members of Magnolia Park Merchants Association because this group thrives to bring the community together with events and helps its members grow through promotions and support.
Betty Porto
Board Member
Betty Porto is one of three siblings who own and run the famous Porto’s Bakery & Café chain. Betty was born in Cuba and migrated to California with her family in 1971. Betty earned a Bachelor’s degree in 1980 from Cal State LA and received her Master’s degree in Political Science from UCLA in 1982. After graduating, Betty helped with the expansion of her family’s business and settled into her role as Vice-President and Director of Community Relations. Today, Betty has the pleasure of working alongside hundreds of local organizations in an effort to give back to the community. They have multiple Porto locations and one in the heart of Magnolia Park.
Cory Jacob
Board Member
Cory Jacob is a comedic actor who has performed on America’s Got Talent as well as at our local Flappers. He is co-owner of Yes Baby! Vintage and Catnip Coalition in Magnolia Park. Cory brings his knowledge of social media and marketing as well as his desire to make Magnolia Park known far and wide to theLos Angles area.
Lori Hartwell
Board Member
Lori Hartwell, an experienced leader with years of non-profit experience, has thrived despite her illness thanks to the love of a pet and a creative mindset. She has effectively combined these passions by establishing Renal Support Network in 1993 and Paws Fur Hope in 2020. Located in Magnolia Park, Studio Hope Boutique provides a unique shopping experience with its collection of vintage, and artisan and curated thrift. They also offer creative activities and a Studio Hope Together program. All proceeds from the boutique go towards supporting the two organizations that she founded. Lori has over 25 years of experience in non-profit management, marketing, sales, event planning, publishing. fundraising and strategic planning.
ella Christian
Board Member
Ella Christian is the co-owner of Tansy, a thriving plant and home goods business with locations in Burbank and Seattle, and upcoming expansions at the Hollywood Burbank Airport and in Newark, New Jersey slated for 2026. A proud Burbank native and passionate community builder, Ella brings over 10 years of experience in operations, administration, and creative direction. Under her leadership, Tansy has grown into more than just a retail space—it’s a community hub known for its inclusive events, support of local makers, and commitment to environmental sustainability. As a member of the MPMA board, Ella is excited to contribute her entrepreneurial insight, community-focused perspective, and deep love for the arts and cultural spaces that shape our region.
Crystal Riley
Board Member
Crystal Riley is a proud Burbank resident for over 20 years. She truly loves this community and especially appreciates the unique charm of Magnolia Park, with its small, independent businesses and welcoming spirit. She is passionate about community engagement, vintage clothing, and supporting local entrepreneurs. Currently, serving as a Program Director for a nonprofit that supports individuals with disabilities through training and job placement. Working with purpose is her passion, and she is thrilled to bring that same energy to our community through the Board of Directors.
Allen Alvarado
Board Member
INFO TO COME
yessenia Perez
Board Member
INFO TO COME