Beltane is a time of fertility, creativity and growth. It's a time to renew our connection to the natural world, and a time to celebrate our role in manifesting that world. As we witness the fruits of Nature grow and thrive right before our eyes, Beltane reminds us that we are every bit as dependent on the earth's fertility as were our ancestors.

Email cuups@hvuuc.org with any questions.

First Friday Women's Night, 6:30 p.m. Friday May 1st at 6:30

All who identify as women are welcome to the first-Friday Women's night. Angie opens her home and tiny farm in southern Johnson City. Come be energized by the support of other women.

ACTIVITIES ABOUND! First: clothing/wearables swap. If you have wearable items in good shape that you don't wear but someone else might enjoy, feel free to bring them. Swap isn't literal: if you don't bring clothes but something fits you, that is o.k., enjoy it. All items brought that aren't traded should go back home with you. Thank you.

But wait! There's More! Second: Angie has a sweet 'mini-farm' and a tour is on order to meet the colorful cast of characters: baby goats, chickens, turkeys... as well as seeing the creek and barn. Finally, as it gets dark, a bonfire is also on order. Wear comfortable shoes! Bring a camp chair if you want to sit and gaze into the fire.

Sharing of easy finger-food snacks and libations are always welcome, but it is not required to bring something to attend; bringing food should never be a barrier. For the host's comfort, please bring all food and drink home with you when you leave. For questions, contact womensgroup@hvuuc.org.


PARKING NOTICE! **PLEASE READ**
* Carpooling is highly recommended. People can arrange to meet at the Shell station/DD closest to the house and consolidate into carpools. [607 TWIN OAKS DR]. 
* The location is in a neighborhood of narrow roads, at a dead end with less room to turn around (e.g. backing up to get out may be needed, yay backup cameras!). 
* The nearest neighbors are o.k. with us respectfully using their driveways to turn around. 
* Angie recommends parking on the same side of the road as the home (north side), avoid blocking neighbors' driveways, and being prepared to walk a block or more. The spots closest to the house should be saved for those with mobility needs. 
* Don't let parking concerns scare you from attending if you want to attend! Rosemary is willing to facilitate forming carpools  [with advanced notice!] Or even pick folks up at the Twin Oaks Shell station and drive you in. Phone number provided upon request (womensgroup@hvuuc.org)


The address can be accessed by contacting WomensGroup@hvuuc.org. Alternatively, it is posted on the private women's group FB page. www.facebook.com/groups/womensgrouphvuuc/


For questions, contact womensgroup@hvuuc.org

Our Annual Congregational Meeting will be held on Sunday, April 26th at 12:30 in the church sanctuary. Childcare will be provided. Anyone who has been an official member of HVUUC for at least 60 days as of April 26th is eligible to vote at the meeting. Items on the agenda will include:

• Vote on the slate of Nominees for Board of Trustee positions recommended by the Nominating Committee.

• Vote on the 2026-2027 Budget.

• Any other items as needed.

Email president@hvuuc.org with any questions.

Congregational Meeting Agenda for April 26th

(1) Establish that a quorum is present.

(2) President’s Welcome and Address

(3) Vote on slate of new officers determined by the Nominating Committee:

(4) Vote on Budget for 2026/2027

(5) New Business

(6) Meeting Adjourns

Revised Slate of Officers for

HVUUC Board of Trustees 26-27

President: Emily Hand*

Past President: Tish Kashdan*

Vice President:  Alesha Chaffin*

Treasurer: Ramesh Munjal

Secretary: Chelsey Collea*

Facilities: Tom Jenels

Fellowship: Debbie Vasut

Membership: Phylis Cairnes*

Programs: Brooklyn Wilkerson

Stewardship: Greg Kramer*

*Continuing Board Members

Click here to see the proposed budget.

Join us April 25 at 5:00pm for a presentation on Astronomy & Extraterrestrial Life

Techno-signatures In Space:

The Universe contains hundreds of billions of galaxies, each with billions of stars and countless planets, many of which could support life.  Given these numbers, intelligent civilizations should be common, yet decades of searching have produced no confirmed evidence.  This contradiction is known as the Fermi Paradox, famously summarized by Enrico Fermi with the question,"Where is everybody?"  Thinkers like Frank Drake attempted to estimate the number of detectable civilizations through the Drake Equation, while Cosmos emphasized both the vastness of space and the fragility of technological societies.

Advancing the Cosmos - Women’s Role in Astronomy:  

For much of history, the night sky has been a canvas for human curiosity - yet the stories of many who shaped our understanding of the Universe have gone unheard.  Women have played a pivotal role in Astronomy, often working in the shadows of institutions that did not fully recognize their brilliance.  Despite barriers to education, limited access to scientific institutions, and systemic exclusion, women have made discoveries that transformed astrophysics, cosmology and space exploration, Their work laid the foundation for star classification, galaxy evolution, dark matter research and even the technologies that allow us to explore the cosmos today.  Highlighting their achievements not only honors their legacy but also reminds us that scientific progress thrives where every mind has the opportunity to contribute.

From Mars With Love!  

If each of the many robot explorers we have landed on the Martian surface could send a postcard back to Earth, what were the most significant accomplishments/finds they would tell us about?  AND, in it's first billion years as a young planet, Mars was very Earth-like.  It had water on the surface, an atmosphere containing oxygen and surface minerals containing most of the prime ingredients for life.  One of the primary questions we have about Mars       - does it have signs of early life and, have we already found it?  Maybe we have!!

Email astronomy@hvuuc.org with any questions.

All ukulele enthusiasts of any level are welcome to attend. Are you curious or just want to sing along for now? Join us. We might even have an extra ukulele to loan out at the meeting.

In 2026, we will meet at the building on the HVUUC campus up the hill on the left, and move to the main building if numbers outgrow the smaller building's rooms.

Information about the meetings and NUTS group is on the official web page: https://sites.google.com/view/northeastukesters/home

Check out the Music page for the upcoming month's playlist where you can download chord sheets, and review play-along videos.

NUTs Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/nuts.uke.group/

This is a community event, held at the HVUUC campus. It is not an HVUUC event. Email ukulele@hvuuc.org with any questions.

Multi-generational Family Friendly game night.  Bring a game, a friend,  and a snack to share.

The Public School Strong TN Campaign Organizer, Liv Cook, will be in our area to meet with the Tri-Cities PSS team.

There are about 30 PSS Tri-Cities team members. Liv will be discussing the education legislation, targeting immigrant children, as well as the voucher expansion bill.

Join us this month for food and social engagement as we tackle some tasks Steven has lined out. We'll grab a quick bite and check in then knock out these tasks. Pizza will be provided. Please reach out with any dietary restrictions or choices. Bring a drink if you want something other than water.

Please bring small hand tools if you are able. A helping hand or words of encouragement are also appreciated.

Email mensgroup@hvuuc.org

Calling all musicians, singers, and lovers of music!  Join us for a very important meeting about music where we will discuss how the budget for the upcoming fiscal year will affect our music program.

We invite you to grab your potluck lunch and then gather in the REZ to meet with Alesha, your Programs Trustee and Music Committee Chair, about the state of music for the upcoming year.

Email musicchair@hvuuc.org with any questions.

Hey!! Second Sunday Coming Up!!  Don't forget potluck on April 12th.  

Anticipating lots of good veggies, salads, entrees, desserts, and snacks.  Please drop your contribution off in the kitchen from 10:30 - 11:00.  Remember!  We can keep it warm but not cook it from scratch.

Email potlucks@hvuuc.org with any questions.

All those identify as male are invited to an outdoor bonfire and yard games at my place. Email mensgroup@hvuuc.com or check church directory for the address. Come by anytime during the afternoon of April 11th between 12:30 and 4 pm —arrive and leave whenever works for you.

Since we’ll be outside the whole time, feel free to bring sunblock, a hat, or anything else that makes hanging out in the sun comfortable.

I'll provide the hot dogs (meat and meatless) and buns. Snacks are totally optional, but if you want to bring something to share, simple things like chips or anything that doesn’t need forks or spoons work great. Bring your own drink, although I will have water if you forget.

I’ll have yard games and you’re welcome to bring any favorites of your own.

Our house is a blue farmhouse off the road NOT the little yellow house with all the vehicles - mailbox is across the road.

Email mensgroup@hvuuc.com or find my phone number in the church directory if you need assistance.

Please RSVP so I know how many hot dogs to buy. Also, let me know if you have any dietary restrictions or if you're bringing your own substitute.

Looking forward to a relaxed afternoon.

Multigenerational family friendly game night this Friday in the fellowship hall. Bring a snack to share if you'd like.

Have your kids bring some headphones. We are very loud but we have a lot of fun.

We want to know your thoughts about Safety and Security at HVUUC.  Please attend our in-person listening circle on April 5th, at 1pm as the Easter Egg hunt concludes, to both share your thoughts and hear where others are at with this very serious issue.

(We will also be offering a Zoom Listening Circle on Tuesday March 24th at 6:30pm on the same topic)

Find the link for the zoom event here: https://hvuuc.org/events/2026/3/24/zoom-security-listening-circle

Childcare will be provided.

Join us April 5th from 12:00–1:00pm for a joyful, and playful afternoon of connection, wonder, and shared joy at HVUUC's Annual Egg Hunt!

During service, our 6–12 class will take on a special role by preparing the egg hunt for our younger children. As part of this, they have created heartfelt notes of encouragement, affirmations, and small drawings—some of which will be tucked inside the eggs alongside candy, fidget toys, and stickers. These small surprises offer moments of joy, creativity, and care woven throughout the experience.

After service, our K–5 children will enjoy the main egg hunt, searching, discovering, and engaging in a lively and playful experience together.

Our 6–12 youth will have their own egg hunt during their regularly scheduled RE class, creating space for an experience that is just for them—playful, engaging, and designed with their age group in mind.

We look forward to an afternoon filled with laughter, movement, and meaningful moments—where each child is welcomed, valued, and free to show up exactly as they are.

Email DRE@hvuuc.org with any questions.

Ostara is a sacred celebration of the Spring Equinox, a moment of perfect balance between light and dark. From this point forward, the light begins to gently overtake the night, symbolizing renewal, growth, and new beginnings. Join us April 4th at 6:00pm.

Are you a history fan? Do you like documentaries?

In the church sanctuary we will be watching Ken Burns' American Revolution documentary. We will watch six episodes over six Saturdays from 9am-12pm.

(April 4th, 11th, and 25th, and May 2nd, 9th, and 16th)

Bring your own snacks and beverages.

Email bradley@hvuuc.org with any questions.

All who identify as women are welcome to the first-Friday Women's night in April.  Come be energized by the support of other women. April is at the Kingsport home of Wendy H. and will feature a small-group style short check-in.

Sharing of easy finger-food snacks and libations are always welcome, but it is not required to bring something to attend; bringing food should never be a barrier.  For the host's comfort, please bring all food and drink home with you when you leave. For questions, contact womensgroup@hvuuc.org.

The address can be accessed by contacting WomensGroup@hvuuc.org. Alternatively, it is posted on the private women's group FB page. www.facebook.com/groups/womensgrouphvuuc/

Driving and parking:
Parking is limited, so carpooling is highly recommended. There are two driveways; one leads to the upper level of the house and should be reserved for women with mobility issues. The second driveway leads to the lower level of the house and has space for several cars. Parking across the street is discouraged.

Church-wide meal for all those who like good food and company!

Cost:

• $8 per person

• $15 for two

• $5 for kids under 12

Please pay in cash.

Sign up by Sunday, March 29th at noon by either filling out the form in the fellowship hall or by emailing wns@hvuuc.org.

April 1st give cooks a chance to play with the word Fool in the world of cooking.  We'll serve two vastly different "fools" and some non-foolish food as well!

Be sure to sign up in time so we can shop for you!

The HVUUC Social Justice Committee invites everyone to join in participating in our Reclaim the Vote Postcards writing event on Sunday, March 29, 2026 after church in the REZ.

As in previous postcard writing events, the event is non-partisan, sponsored by the Reclaim Our Vote - Center for Common Ground. We are focusing on sending reminders to registered Black voters in the Chesapeake VA area regarding the Virginia Redistricting Special Election on April 21, 2026.

Postcards, labels and stamps are provided.  We have a limited amount of colored pens and fine tip markers. Please join us!

NUTs (Northeast Ukesters of Tennessee) Community Ukulele group meetup on Saturday morning March 28, 2026

All ukulele enthusiasts of any level are welcome to attend. Are you curious or just want to sing along for now? Join us. We might even have an extra ukulele to loan out at the meeting.

In 2026, we will meet at the building on the HVUUC campus up the hill on the left, and move to the main building if numbers outgrow the smaller building's rooms.

Information about the meetings and NUTS group is on the official web page: https://sites.google.com/view/northeastukesters/home

Check out the Music page for the upcoming month's playlist where you can download chord sheets, and review play-along videos.

NUTs Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/nuts.uke.group/

This is a community event, held at the HVUUC campus. It is not an HVUUC event.

We want to know your thoughts about Safety and Security at HVUUC.  Please attend our zoom listening circle on Tuesday March 24 at 6:30pm, to both share your thoughts and hear where others are at with this very serious issue.

zoom link: https://zoom.us/j/99010898582?pwd=hwS9ZTXDtnHb6YuUaUyZSCgmNxpkKC.1

(We will also be offering an In-Person Listening Circle on Sunday April 5th at 1:00 pm on the same topic)

HVUUC will again be a pickup point for the Tennessee Environmental Council's Tree Day on Saturday March 21, 2026.  We bundle the trees on Friday, March 20, from 9:30AM  to about 1PM and are looking for volunteers to help with tree bundling day. 

If you are interested please email treeday@hvuuc.org.  Also we are looking for donated newspapers and plastic bags to wrap the trees in when we bundle them. There will be a box in the Fred Ballroom by the back door if you have any to donate. 

Youth Group Gathering – March 15 | 4–6pm
Location: 6–12 Classroom, REZ Building
Facilitators: Bradley & Jess

Our March Youth Group Gathering is right around the corner, and we are so excited to be back together!

Last month was full of laughter, leadership, and meaningful reflection. The youth rotated through roles in Riverbank (a high-energy active listening game), discovered that Happy Salmon is even more fun when played silently, and challenged AI with their artistic brilliance. We also held a thoughtful processing conversation about the wildly successful Potato Bowl Fundraiser — celebrating wins and dreaming up improvements for future projects.

The youth selected March 7 (12–3pm) as their rescheduled date to distribute food bags to our unhoused neighbors. We are now collaborating with The Melting Pot in Johnson City, who is generously offering space and partnership to help bring this outreach to life. A parent has also offered the use of their food truck for an upcoming hot-meal distribution — with the youth creating the menu themselves!

This month we will:
Explore these new community collaborations in more detail
Choose a fun field trip destination
Select a date for our next fundraiser — which will directly support that field trip

As always, Youth Group is youth-led, connection-centered, and full of authenticity and JOY! We can’t wait to see what unfolds next!

2nd Sunday Potluck - March 8th! Remember to bring a dish to share to the kitchen between 10:30 and 11:55.

All who identify as women are welcome to the first-Friday Women's night at the Johnson City home of Jenn C. Come be energized by the support of other women.

Sharing of easy finger-food snacks and libations are always welcome, but it is not required to bring something to attend; bringing food should never be a barrier. For the host's comfort, PLEASE bring all food and drink HOME WITH YOU when you leave. For questions, contact womensgroup@hvuuc.org.

The address can be accessed by contacting WomensGroup@hvuuc.org. Alternatively, it is posted on the private women's group FB page. www.facebook.com/groups/womensgrouphvuuc/

There is ample street parking in the neighborhood. But carpooling is always suggested: the party before the party. For questions, contact womensgroup@hvuuc.org.

All ukulele enthusiasts of any level are welcome to attend. Are you curious or just want to sing along for now? Join us. We might even have an extra ukulele to loan out at the meeting.

In 2026, we will meet at the building on the HVUUC campus up the hill on the left, and move to the main building if numbers outgrow the smaller building's rooms.

Information about the meetings and NUTS group is on the official web page: https://sites.google.com/view/northeastukesters/home

Check out the Music page for the upcoming month's playlist where you can download chord sheets, and review play-along videos.

NUTs Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/nuts.uke.group/

This is a community event, held at the HVUUC campus. It is not an HVUUC event.

Email ukulele@hvuuc.org with any questions.

Wednesday night supper will be held this month on Feb 25th at 6pm.

• $8.00 per person

• $15 for 2

• $5 for children under 12

Be sure to sign up before Sunday, the 22nd at noon. Sign up in the Fellowship Hall or by emailing WNS@HVUUC .org

A warm welcome to all, and warm winter food will be enjoyed together. We eat and chat, and if you can help clean up, that’s wonderful!

PLEASE be SURE to sign up! We can't feed you if we don't know you are coming!!

Middle School Stellar Sexual Health Education

Dates

Mandatory Guardian Orientation: Feb 22 [if you cannot make this orientation, please reach out to Cindi Huss as soon as possible to arrange an alternative]
Classes

Mar 1

Mar 8

Mar 22

March 29

April 12

April 19

April 26

May 3

May 16, 17 (class and lock-in on the night of May 16, final class and celebration at the regular time on May 17

Time: 9:30-10:45 (except for May 16) during regular RE time.

Where: Holston Valley Unitarian Universalist Church, 136 Bob Jobe Rd in Gray, TN, uphill in the religious eduction building, 2nd floor meditation hall on the right (please remove shoes when entering)

Ages: 6-8 graders

Cost: Free!

________________________________________

Youth will learn about the power of language, anatomy, puberty and other life changes, body image, gender, attraction, bias, consent, relationship dynamics, , media literacy, pregnancy and pregnancy outcomes, STIs, and prevention.

Stellar Sexual Health Education (by RISE: Healthy for Life) engages participants in an expansive exploration of their inner and outer space. It fundamentally changes the way we do sexuality education. Free of judgment, Stellar dismantles stigma and invites honest, compassionate curiosity about bodies, identities, and relationships.

________________________________________

RISE's programs are interactive and engaging. They are inclusive, affirming, and fact-based. This is not your grandma's sex ed!

Guardians are welcome to reach out to Jess Ox at dre@hvuuc.org with any questions/concerns about the program.

________________________________________

If you can make a donation to help support RISE programming, please visit:https://risehfl.org/donate

REGISTER HERE FOR STELLAR SEXUAL HEALTH: https://risehealthylife.betterworld.org/events/middle-school-stellar-sex-ed-at-2

IF YOU HAVE NOT YET REGISTERED YOUR CHILD FOR RELIGIOUS EDUCATION AS WELL, PLEASE DO SO HERE:
https://hvuuc.org/religious-education-registration-form

In an effort to better align with UU values and promote an inclusive environment, "MACHO" will no longer be used for the Men's Group.

The Men’s Group will now be meeting the third Wednesday of the month in the Fred Ball Room, from 7 to 9 . All who identify as men are welcome.

Our first meeting will be this Wednesday, February 18. Please join us for community and fellowship.

Email mensgroup@hvuuc.org with any questions.

New Small Covenant Group on UU History - The group discussion will be based on a 6-part UUA video series titled “Long Strange Trip” series by Ron Cordes that explores the history of Unitarian and Universalist thought and practice from the early, liberal strands in faith at the beginning of the Christian era to what we know today as Unitarian Universalism. Each part of Long Strange Trip is approx. 1 hour in length and will be emailed to the group prior to the meetings. 

The group will be facilitated by George C and Bryan K and meet on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday evenings, beginning Feb. 17 and ending May 5, from 6:30 to 8:30 pm at HVUUC.  If feasible, will have a carpool group from Johnson City available. There is a UUA study guide that will be used as a basis for discussion and sharing.  Email George at uuhistory@hvuuc.org for questions or to sign up or sign up at the announcement board at HVUUC.