Board Members
2025-2027 Term
Brent Kidwell
Homeowners Representative
Board Chair
Brent Kidwell has proudly served as the President of the Carthay Circle Neighborhood Association for more than 5 years and with his election to Mid City West, he extends his stewardship of the area with the addition of Miracle Mile under the Zone 7 map. His birthplace home was on Bedford & Olympic, just blocks away from Zone 7 so he has a lifetime of love for, and familiarity with the area. Brent has spent nearly 30 years in the TV & Film industry as a Producer and Music Supervisor. He was a widely published national music journalist, an artist-manager with various Punk & Emo bands, and worked as the studio right-hand for renowned composer Hans Zimmer. Brent recently completed a 5-year term with a music technology company. Civically, he has led campaigns against telecom companies, fought a proposed above-ground Metro train through Carthay Circle, was instrumental in the landmarking of Tom Bergin’s, and most recently, helped run a widespread fundraising drive which led to the National Register of Historic Places recognizing the Carthay Neighborhoods as a historic place. Although this position may be the closest he will get, his friends often refer to him as “The Mayor of L.A.”.bkidwell@midcitywest.org
Claudia Beaton
Homeowners Representative
First Vice Chair
I have been a proud resident of Beverly Grove for more than 20 years—15 as a renter and the past five as a homeowner. Throughout this time, I have been dedicated to fostering unity, mutual support, and inclusivity to strengthen our community’s shared sense of belonging.Professionally, I serve as Vice President of People Operations & Strategy in the tech and entertainment industry, where I focus on aligning purpose with profit, strengthening organizational effectiveness, and driving strategies that deliver impact. I am also pursuing a Master of Science in Human Resource Management at the University of Southern California, with an expected graduation in 2025.I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to serve on the Mid City West Neighborhood Council and to contribute my experience, leadership skills, and passion for community engagement to help our neighborhood thrive.cbeaton@midcitywest.org
Hunter Burgarella
Zone 1 Representative
Second Vice Chair
Hunter is a long-time resident and local realtor in the Mid City West neighborhood. He cares deeply about our neighborhood and consistently fights for the priorities his fellow residents care most about, with their values top of mind. Hunter started his career covering politics in Washington DC after graduating from the University of Southern California. It was there he worked as a political producer for a national news network in a variety of roles from producing shows, to covering the White House as well as the 2012 presidential election for which he was awarded an Emmy. After seven years in Washington DC, he moved back to his home state of California to the city he loves most, Los Angeles. hburgarella@midcitywest.org
Valerie Washburn
Homeowners Representative
Board Treasurer
Valerie Washburn is a native Vermonter and an Angeleno by choice. She was a Chinese literature scholar, real estate attorney, and federal law clerk before becoming a stay-at-home parent to two lively kids. After a number of years in the Valley, she and her family moved to the Miracle Mile North area of MCW in search of a more walkable lifestyle and closer proximity to LA’s arts and cultural institutions. Valerie strongly believes that walkable, transit-rich urban areas like MCW are better for the planet and better for residents’ physical and mental health. The challenge lies in keeping these areas accessible and livable for all who want to live in them. Valerie has lived in NYC and San Francisco and witnessed the transformation of too many of those cities’ dense neighborhoods into exclusive enclaves for the wealthy. She is hopeful that LA can find a different path. As a parent, she is also very aware of the challenges urban living can pose for families and is committed to helping to make our community a welcoming place for all ages.vwashburn@midcitywest.org
Joseph Percal
Community Org. Representative
Board Secretary
Joseph Percal is a dedicated community member and small business owner with a deep commitment to the well-being and growth of the Mid City West area. As the founder of a healthcare billing company, Joseph brings years of experience navigating complex regulatory systems, advocating for underserved populations, and supporting long-term care facilities throughout Los Angeles County. His work in healthcare has given him a unique perspective on the challenges facing families, seniors, and local providers.Joseph is focused on preserving and improving the quality of life for Mid City West residents. He is a strong advocate for safer streets, cleaner public spaces, and thoughtful development that respects the character of the neighborhood. With a practical and solutions-oriented mindset, he aims to make Mid City West a safer, more vibrant, and more livable community for everyone.jpercal@midcitywest.org 
Dave Abbitt
At Large Representative
Born and raised in Los Angeles, I’m a proud Angeleno with deep roots in this city and a lifelong appreciation for its rich cultural diversity. I’ve spent my career in film and television production, where I've led large teams, balanced complex budgets, and solved problems under pressure — all while helping creative voices bring their visions to life.My work has taught me the value of listening, collaborating, and thinking strategically, and I bring those same principles to public service. I’m passionate about preserving what makes Los Angeles special — from our unique neighborhoods to our shared commitment to progress, sustainability, and inclusion. Serving on the Mid-City West Neighborhood Council is an honor, and I’m here to be a voice for thoughtful growth, civic engagement, and a stronger, more connected community.dabbitt@midcitywest.org
Nikki Bascon
At Large Representative
I'm proud to call historic Carthay Circle my home for the past 12 years. During this time, I've actively served our community as a board member of the Carthay Circle Neighborhood Association for the past 7 years.My connection to this city is rooted in my grandparents' immigration here from the Philippines in the 1960s. I spent part of my childhood in Historic Filipinotown and Mission Viejo, pursued higher education in San Francisco, and ultimately returned to Los Angeles as my home.I'm passionate about ensuring public access to the fine and performing arts and about spreading knowledge and appreciation of Los Angeles' rich history. I also volunteer my time as a choreographer with the Jewish Women's Repertory Company. As a mother, public safety and the well-being of our community are my utmost priorities.My 25 years of experience as a businesswoman in the Los Angeles real estate market, along with my position as the only woman on the board of directors at Keller Williams Beverly Hills, have equipped me with the skills and perspective to serve our community effectively.My desire is to make a positive impact on our district and in Carthay Circle through dedicated engagement and action.nbascon@midcitywest.org
Jerry Bedrick
Zone 2 Representative
My decision to join the Neighborhood Council stems from a personal commitment to creating a safer and more vibrant community, especially in light of the challenges we face with local business decline and safety concerns. As a resident and homeowner of Mid-City West, I’ve witnessed firsthand the impacts these issues have on our community. I am eager to contribute my skills and experience to make our neighborhood a place where everyone feels secure and where local businesses can thrive. Growing up in New York City, I lived on the 5th floor of a 6-story building and learned the value of community from my family and neighbors and the art of Italian cooking. I earned a five-year degree in Electrical Engineering from the City College of New York (CCNY). My professional career took me to Boston, to complete my Master of Science degree in Computer Science. I was employed in the areas of computer hardware design and software engineering, ultimately founding Mystic River Software, a company that was acquired by Microsoft. Throughout my career, I have developed a strong skill set in problem-solving, leadership, and technology, but I have also remained deeply engaged with my community. While in Boston, I dedicated my time to meaningful causes, volunteering with Habitat for Humanity and serving as an adjunct lecturer at Boston University. I also took on the role of photographer for Pop Warner Football, the nation’s oldest youth football and cheerleading organization. Since relocating to Los Angeles in 2014, I have become increasingly involved in local initiatives to improve safety and support small businesses. I believe that a safe neighborhood not only enhances the quality of life but also attracts investment, which is essential to the long-term health of our community. I am committed to advocating for solutions that make Mid-City West a more secure and prosperous place for families, businesses, and all who call this neighborhood home. jbedrick@midcitywest.org
Ken Best
Zone 3 Representative
Dr. Ken Best, DC is honored to serve as the Zone 3 Board Representative for the Mid City West Neighborhood Council. A proud resident of the neighborhood for over 35 years, Dr. Best brings deep roots in the community along with a lifelong commitment to public service and holistic wellness.As a board-certified chiropractor and holistic practitioner, Dr. Best has maintained a successful private practice in Los Angeles for more than three decades. His passion for advocacy began early—serving as a student council representative while earning his doctorate in chiropractic. He went on to found a Political Action Committee supporting integrative healthcare policy and served as a legislative advocate in both Sacramento and Washington, D.C., championing patient rights and the chiropractic profession at the state and federal levels.Beyond his professional accomplishments, Dr. Best is passionate about building a stronger, healthier Mid City West. He believes that engaged local leadership can make a meaningful difference in quality of life, and he is committed to promoting transparency, community wellness, and thoughtful urban development.In addition to his council service, Dr. Best is an author, educator, and speaker who enjoys sharing insights on mind-body healing and personal transformation.kbest@midcitywest.org
Shelby Blecker
At Large Representative
.I ran for neighborhood council to represent my community, its interests, and concerns. We have many issues that need addressing: crime, better solutions for the unhoused, building density in a careful and least intrusive way, funding for parks and open space, and better paying jobs close to where we live to reduce traffic.I grew up in the Melrose area and have lived here since 1965. I’ve seen both good and bad changes. I often think about how those changes affect us. That’s a reason I joined the Community-Police Advisory Board and worked to organize the Melrose Wednesday Walks. I sit on the board of a non-profit that works to find cures for cancer and have owned a small business since 1984. It employs a diverse group of people who enjoy discussing transportation, the environment and housing costs with me every day.For the past several years, I have attended MCWNC meetings as a stakeholder making public comments on issues that affect all of us. I don’t shy away from voicing alternative viewpoints, taking positions for my neighbors and putting hard issues on the table. We need more varied opinions on MCWNC to represent the diverse opinions of stakeholders. I want to hear from my community, work with my community and I plan on being there for our community, standing up for the issues, concerns and needs that affect where we live, work, play, pray and attend school.sblecker@midcitywest.org
Craig Brill
Business Representative
A native Angeleno I have lived in Mid-City West for over 30 years from the Melrose Neighborhood to Beverly Grove. I am also the co-founder of the Beverly Grove Residents Association and a small business owner in the community with my husband of 30 years. I am committed to a safe clean and livable city where everyone has equal opportunity to thrive and succeed.cbrill@midcitywest.org
Matthew Craffey
Renters Representative
Matthew Craffey was born and raised in Ojai, California. He received his Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science and International Relations from California Lutheran University. He began his career working in law enforcement for several years, serving in several different exciting roles at the Ventura County Sheriff’s Department. After deciding he was more interested in a career in university development, he started working at California Lutheran University moving through the ranks to become Director of Prospect Research. In 2012, he moved to Los Angeles and accepted a position at UCLA. Currently he is Senior Director of Prospect Management and Development Analytics, overseeing two teams, 18 staff members, and 6 direct reports. Matthew is also heavily involved in politics and public service. Shortly after coming out in 1999, he became the youngest member of the board of the Ventura County Rainbow Alliance. After moving to Los Angeles, he became involved with the Log Cabin Republicans, an organization that advocates on behalf of LGBT Republicans. He was the President of the nation’s largest chapter of Log Cabin, Los Angeles, California, for 3 years, and was the Chairman of Log Cabin Republicans of California, which oversees all 10 chapters of the organization in California for 6 years. He is currently on the Log Cabin Republicans National Board. He also writes opinion editorials for several publications including The Advocate, The Federalist, Red State and the Ventura County Star. In his free time, Matthew writes and records alternative rock music, and serves as the lead singer in the group Dark Rume. He is also an automobile enthusiast, and has owned many fun cars over the course of his life. Matthew regularly goes to car shows, and enjoys weekend drives with his fellow car enthusiast friends. He currently owns a 2016 Dodge Challenger SRT and a 2015 Chrysler 300c Platinum. Matthew currently resides in Los Angeles, California.mcraffey@midcitywest.org
Hilary Delaney
At Large Representative
Hilary Delaney is a seasoned finance professional with a decade of experience at BlackRock and other leading firms in the financial industry. Originally from Seattle, she spent ten years living and working in Manhattan before settling in Los Angeles with her husband and two children. Her deep-rooted commitment to community and public safety inspired her to run for a seat on the Neighborhood Council board, where she aims to help ensure that LA remains a safe, vibrant place for families to live and thrive.hdelaney@midcitywest.org
Stella Farentino
Community Organizations Representative
I am a first generation Italian, my parents immigrated from southern Italy and gave my siblings and I the best of both worlds. We were raised in Italy and later settled in Toronto Canada. I've lived in this great city of Los Angeles since March of 1989, it was love at first sight. I’ve had the privilege of becoming a US citizen in 1999, I cried when I was sworn in and kissed the very ground I was standing on. My culture is very important to me which is why, when my son was born here in LA, I only spoke Italian to him, and he would speak English with my husband. The greatest gift I could give him, was what my parents gave me, his Italian mother tongue. Today I am both a mother to a high schooler and a mom to a Golden Retriever. I am no politician, nor do I know the ropes of becoming one. I am not happy at all with the direction our community and Los Angeles has taken. I would love to add my input and listen to what is needed to strengthen our community and make it safe again. sfarentino@midcitywest.org
Menachem Fehler
At Large Representative
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mfehler@midcitywest.org
Peter Gordon
At Large Representative
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pgordon@midcitywest.orgMalkiel (Mark) Gradon
Renters Representative
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mgradon@midcitywest.orgJohn Gunderson
At Large Representative
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jgunderson@midcitywest.org
Tzvi Haber
Business Representative
Tzvi has been living and working in the neighborhood for close to 15 years. As an active Contractor, Property Manager and homeowner, he understands the many sides of issues, from a business owner perspective as well as from a homeowner, resident and renter perspective.
Tzvi is committed to creating a warm and inclusive community, that is a safe and welcoming place to work, play and live.
thaber@midcitywest.org
Madison Hirshberg
At Large Representative
Madison is honored to serve on the Mid City West Neighborhood Council after identifying potential areas of growth during her two years of homeownership here. While she hopes to be impactful in all areas, her area of passion will be ensuring thoughtful and effective solutions aimed at bringing the crime rate down are brought to fruition with little hassle. She ran in order to replace previously limited thinking with simple, common-sense ideas. Madison is a graduate of Boston University, where she majored in TV/Film Management and minored in Political Science. She has lived in Los Angeles for 11 years, where she has built a career in the documentary series space at a streamer. As much of her work is in the true crime arena, she understands how important it is to truly feel safe in your own home and community.mhirshberg@midcitywest.org
Yehuda Klein
Business Representative
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yklein@midcitywest.org
Dahlia Laury
Renters Representative
Dahlia Laury joined the Mid City West Neighborhood council and serves on the Public Safety Committee out of a genuine concern for the well-being of her neighbors and community. With a strong belief that every family deserves to feel safe, she brings both personal perspective and community-minded dedication to her role. Dahlia is passionate about creating an environment where children can grow, families can thrive, and residents can trust in their neighborhood’s security. She is committed to working collaboratively to find thoughtful solutions that protect and strengthen the community for everyone.
dlaury@midcitywest.org Shaya Lowenstein
At Large Representative
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slowenstein@midcitywest.org
Elizabeth Mason
Business Representative
Elizabeth Mason founded The Paper Bag Princess, Vintage Couture in 1992 followed by the release of her first reference book, The Rag Street Journal, The Ultimate Guide to Shopping Thrift Across North America; Published by Henry Holt.Mason opened her first boutique, The Paper Bag Princess, West Hollywood in 1995.The boutique specializes in rare designer vintage evening and cocktail fashions with a flare for exuding pure glamor, and sensuality.She appeared on Oprah with her first book The Rag Street Journal, in an episode 'Are You Rich and You Don’t Know It', searching for hidden riches in homes across America. She has also appeared on numerous Style and News programs such as The Today’s Show, Jane Pauley Show, E!, and Access Hollywood just to name a few.She released her second reference book in 2002, Valuable Vintage, The Insider’s Guide to Identifying and Pricing Important Vintage; Published by Random House.She has lectured extensively, most notably at NYU, UCLA Anderson School of Business, The Royal Ontario Museum, The Bata Museum, and the Beverly Hills Women’s Club.She is a Certified Appraiser with the American Society of Appraisers (ASA), and The International Society of Appraisers, specializing in 20th and 21st Century fashions.She expanded her original West Hollywood boutique in 2004, to Beverly Hills where she catered to the special demands of a very select global clientele.After over a decade in Beverly Hills, Mason moved The Paper Bag Princess in 2017 to Melrose Avenue in Los Angeles and quickly became the cornerstone to the thriving important vintage fashion industry there that serves the Fashion, Film and Music industry, as well as catering to a sophisticated global collector and wearer’s market. The Paper Bag Princess expanded its market as the go-to boutique for high-end costume wardrobe for celebrated Film and Television productions working with some of the world's most recognized award winning costume designers. The boutique's fashion archives are the best kept secret for global fashion brands whose names she keeps very confidential. Suffice to say it would be difficult to think of a celebrated contemporary fashion designer who would not consider Elizabeth Mason and The Paper Bag Princess their inspirational secret weapon.The Paper Bag Princess offers an unparalleled design archival research department, VIP Couture/Museum Salon, and a library of fashion books, swatches and sketches, all of which are available for industry inspirational rentals.Mason opened her namesake design Atelier, Elizabeth Mason Couture in 2006. Her eveningwear and cocktail designs are created in the rich tradition of fine French Couture, culling their inspiration from her vast Couture Archives which heralds back to early uber-sexy Silver Screen goddesses.emason@midcitywest.org
Jacob Nachimson
Renters Representative
I’m honored to serve on the Mid City West Neighborhood Council and to be part of shaping the future of our community. Public safety is a top priority for me, and I’m committed to helping make our neighborhood a place where people feel comfortable walking, spending time outdoors, and connecting with one another. My goal is to support efforts that reduce crime and create a more enjoyable environment for all who live and work here.
In my professional life, I work in warehousing management and sales. That experience has taught me the importance of problem-solving, communication, and collaboration—skills that I bring with me to the council. Most of all, I look forward to hearing from neighbors and working together to strengthen the community we share.
jnachimson@midcitywest.orgDylan Otto
At Large Representative
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dotto@midcitywest.org
Yitzy Pearson
Zone 5 Representative
My decision to join the Neighborhood Council stems from a personal commitment to creating a safer and more vibrant community, especially in light of the challenges we face with local business decline and safety concerns. As a resident and homeowner of Mid-City West, I’ve witnessed firsthand the impacts these issues have on our community. I am eager to contribute my skills and experience to make our neighborhood a place where everyone feels secure and where local businesses can thrive. ypearson@midcitywest.org
Josh Rothstein
Renters Representative
Josh has called Mid City West home for the past decade and has been a proud Angeleno for more than 40 years. Elected to the Neighborhood Council, he serves out of a deep love for Los Angeles and a commitment to ensuring the community’s voice is always heard.
He holds a B.S. in Computer Engineering from Northwestern University and began his career as an Embedded Systems engineer before transitioning into product management and entrepreneurship. Born and raised in Los Angeles, Josh’s roots in the neighborhood run deep: he grew up shopping in the Fairfax District, eating at The Original Farmers Market with his grandma on Sundays, and attending little league practices at Fairfax High. These experiences shaped his lasting appreciation for the neighborhood's culture, history, and community spirit.
On the Council, Josh brings a pragmatic and community-focused approach, dedicated to creating opportunities for innovation, collaboration, and fun. He sees Mid City West as one of Los Angeles’ most vibrant communities and is committed to working with neighbors to shape a thriving future.
jrothstein@midcitywest.orgJung Shin
At Large Representative
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jshin@midcitywest.org
Matthew Tallmer
Renters Representative
I moved to Los Angeles in May of 2019 after living in the Washington, D.C., area for more than20 years. My professional background includes working as an award-winning print and radiojournalist and serving as a staff member on several congressional committees.While I worked in D.C., I was the longest-serving member of the Budget and Fiscal AffairsAdvisory Committee of the city of Alexandria, Virginia, which helped the city manager and citycouncil develop the budget.Shortly after moving to the Melrose-Fairfax area, COVID hit. Shannon Paulson, who thencommanded LAPD’s Wilshire Division, started Operation Blue Heart to help residents. Officersdid grocery shopping for residents and delivered the food to residents’ homes. I relied onOperation Blue Heart and, at the Captain’s request, did a TV interview about how the programwas a life-saver for me. Captain Paulson told me about the Community-Police Advisory Boardand asked if I would be interested in joining, which I did.That led to my occasional involvement with the Neighborhood Council. I decided to run out offrustration at the old Council. They appeared to be more interested in their own agendas ratherthan listening to or helping the community.I am honored and humbled that the stakeholders saw fit to elect me, and will work to hear allsides of issues, and make decisions based on the facts.mtallmer@midcitywest.orgSonya Turoff
Youth Representative
Born and raised in Carthay Circle, Sonya Turoff is a local high school student and is beyond excited to serve for a second term as a youth representative on the Mid-City West council. An avid bus rider, she’s passionate about building strong communities, promoting pedestrian safety, and developing public transit. A marathon and cross country runner, she enjoys a good bagel and long walks in her spare time. She’s honored to represent her neighbors and better her community.sturoff@midcitywest.org
Rabbi Avraham Weiner
At Large Representative
Rabbi Avraham Weiner is a beloved educator, cherished by both children and adults. He is highly respected in the community and offers insightful counsel on rabbinical and Jewish matters. As a veteran member of the community, he understands the pulse of its needs. He has been an active teacher and rabbi in the school system for over four decades. Rabbi Weiner’s impact is profound and far-reaching.
rabbiaweiner@midcitywest.org