A SPNA Founder, Newsletter Writer Virginia Wexman

The Scene, SPNA’s monthly newsletter, pays tribute this issue to Virginia Wexman who died in mid-March. Virginia was a contributor to The Scene from the very first issue. She wrote articles about transportation. She was an advocate and user of the bus and rail system and chaired the Transportation Committee for the League of Women Voters.

         Virginia was also instrumental in the founding of South Park Neighborhood Association (SPNA). She was one of a small group that met to create a way to build community, give voice to residents’ concerns, and support local businesses. All of which she was already doing.

About 2015, Virginia founded “Dining Around Downtown” (DAD) for her fellow residents of E11even to build community and support downtown restaurants. Since then, the DAD has expanded to residents throughout South Park who enjoy a monthly gathering at a nearby restaurant.

It was through DAD that South Park residents became friends and four years ago, several decided to form SPNA to strengthen the voices of the residents and give a forum to neighborhood activities and concerns.

         Three years ago, Virginia and her husband, John Huntington, left South Park to move into a senior facility in Altadena.

Virginia spent several years teaching film at the University of Illinois Chicago Campus and brought that knowledge to South Park hosting a monthly film viewing in her condo. She was the best example of a neighborhood activist and will be missed.

By SPNA and The Scene Staff