THE PEOPLE'S PULSE

Keeping the Heartbeat of Our Community Strong
 

Loved ones,


Serving and connecting with you through the Varina District Newsletter has been an honors. What started as a simple way to share updates quickly became a trusted space where we uplifted voices, celebrated wins, and faced challenges together. Your feedback and support shaped every word - and I am forever grateful. Now, it's time to grow.


I’m thrilled to announce a new chapter in our journey, one that reflects the growing impact of our work and the broader community. With great excitement, I introduce "The People’s Pulse."


Why “The People’s Pulse”? Because it’s about us. Our voices, our stories, our struggles, and our victories - they’re the heartbeat of progress. This new quarterly newsletter expands beyond Varina, Highland Springs, and Sandston to embrace the entire 81st District - from schools and small businesses to rural roads and city blocks - The People’s Pulse will stay rooted in truth, love, and action. We move onward together facing our shadow and celebrating our shine.


And speaking of celebration, have a safe and joyful 4th of July. I’d also love to hear from you—what’s on your heart? Whether it’s an idea, a question, or a topic you’d like my take on, CLICK HERE to send an email, and let’s connect.


Onward together,


Alicia S. Atkins


Henrico School Board Member, Varina District 2020 - 2025

Steward of Shared Hope for HD81 and Beyond

Empowerment and Shared Goals: A Vision for Virginia's 81st District


Empowerment is more than a headline or a slogan. It starts in the quiet moments - a conversation over coffee, a shared story, a nod of understanding.  


Here in our communities, in the 81st, we’ve felt the weight:


"The dreams we hold for our children’s future..., Grief that sits heavy from lives lost too soon...,The quiet battles with job loss, housing, and healthcare..., And the air, water, and land - begging us to care more."


Still, we rise forward to build something lasting. Stay ready, so you don't have to get ready and pay attention. Click the link below to read about:


  • What’s been heavy on our hearts
  • How showing up informed makes a difference
  • Why time is short and legacy endures


LEARN MORE

HCPS Events

7/30: Summer Graduation

7/31: Back-to-School Event

8/14: School Board Session

8/18: First Day of School


Community Event

CLICK HERE for free tickets to the Common History event.
 

UPDATES & RESOURCES


Conversations are happening now around data centers and water access, planning for the 2025 - 2026 school year, and new Virginia laws that have recently taken effect. CLICK HERE to review 2025 Changes to Virginia Laws.


Also, in December 2021, the Virginia Supreme Court approved new district maps for the House of Delegates and State Senate, which took effect with the 2023 elections. The map below outlines the boundaries of Virginia House District 81. Keep up with legislation by visiting the Virginia Legislative Information System. (LIS) . Also, use the links below to access helpful resources.

CHESTERFIELD



The county earned a Quad-AAA bond rating, CCPS broke ground on a new high school, and residents continue voicing concerns over a planned gas power plant.


Resources:

VARINA, SANDSTON, &

HIGHLAND SPRINGS


HCPS will break ground on the nation’s first K–12 Living Building this summer, the county had a successful Juneteenth event, and residents continue voicing concerns over water and data centers.


Resources:

CHARLES CITY



Recent highlights include a forensic audit of county finances, CCPS gets a new school superintendent, and residents continue voicing concerns about data centers.


Resources:
 
 
 
Disclaimer: The content in this newsletter reflects Alicia Atkins' views and opinions and may not align with the official stance of any organization or employer. Readers should seek professional guidance and perform due diligence before acting on the information. Alicia Atkins is not responsible for errors, omissions, or actions based on the provided information. References to products or services do not imply endorsement, and Alicia Atkins assumes no liability for external links. By reading this newsletter, you release Alicia Atkins from any claims arising from your use or reliance on the information. Also, please note information presented is fluid and may change.Thank you for your understanding and continued readership.

Alicia Atkins | 3900 Three Foxes Drive | Henrico, VA 23231 US

Unsubscribe | Update Profile | Constant Contact Data Notice