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!

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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.

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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.

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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.

Youth Group meets Sunday, February 15 from 4–6pm! Join us for connection, creativity, and reflection as our youth celebrate their Potato Bowl fundraiser, plan Feeding-the-Hungry initiatives. Youth Group is a space where young people are welcomed exactly as they are — a place to belong, to be heard, to laugh, to reflect, and to grow alongside one another!

As always, Youth Group is guided by the energy and voices of the youth themselves — with plenty of room for spontaneous fun, laughter, and meaningful conversation. This month will also include a few special moments of reflection and planning as they continue bringing their ideas to life:

Fundraiser Reflection
Earlier in the day, our youth will help host the Potato Bowl Fundraiser, and during Youth Group we’ll take time to reflect together — celebrating what worked well, what felt exciting, and what they might do differently next time. Reflection is how leadership grows.

Feeding the Hungry Planning
The group will revisit their Feeding-the-Hungry budget and begin making concrete plans around the ideas they’ve been envisioning. This is where their compassion meets action, and their creativity begins shaping real change in the world.

Connecting Across RE
We’ll also explore ways to involve younger members of our Religious Education community in future projects. Our youth are powerful examples of shared ministry in action, and it’s beautiful to watch their care, courage, and collaboration ripple outward!

Make your wishes known as the congregation discerns which risks we want to take together as a community to transform ourselves, our community and our world!

On Sunday February 15th after church, Rev. Tiffany and team of our church leaders will be facilitating a Risk Discernment workshop sponsored by the Unitarian Universalist's social justice organization Side with Love. 

This workshop is designed specifically for us to gauge the risk tolerances of congregation members so that we can make better decisions about what is worth doing and what is too risky for our congregation when it comes to social justice matters.  But we can't do that unless you come and let us know where you're at.  We hope this workshop will be very well attended to help us get a clear sample of congregational values, hopes, and boundaries.

The youth group will be providing lunch as a fundraiser right after church, and the workshop itself will go from 1-3pm.

Please use the sign up sheet on the back table of the sanctuary, or email risk@hvuuc.org to let us know you're coming (and to help the youth prepare enough food).

Our 6–12 Religious Education youth are cooking up something cozy, creative, and downright delicious — and they can’t wait to serve you!

Join us during Coffee Hour (12–1pm) for our Youth Potato Bowl Fundraiser, where you’ll be invited to craft your very own potato masterpiece at our self-serve toppings bar.

For $5 per bowl or baker, you can choose between:
a potato bowl — a comforting bowl of diced potatoes ready to be loaded with goodness, or
a baker — a whole baked potato, warm and ready for your favorite toppings.

Pile it high. Keep it simple. Make it uniquely yours.

This fundraiser is part of the youth’s expanding Feeding-the-Hungry initiatives, where they are learning what it means to live their values through generosity, service, and care for others. Each bowl shared helps fuel their efforts to make a real and meaningful impact in the world around them.

The Potato Bowl takes place immediately following service and just before the Risk Discernment Workshop, offering a beautiful chance to nourish both body and spirit. Come hungry, come curious, and come ready to be served by the incredible youth who are helping build the world they wish to see — one potato at a time.

It's going to be spud-tacular!

First Friday Women's Night, 6:30 p.m. Friday February 6 at the downtown Kingsport home of Linda W.

All who identify as women are welcome to the first-Friday Women's night. 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 your food and drink home with you when you leave.

There is street parking across the street, and a few spots on the driveway to the right as you are looking at Linda's home. This event will happen regardless of weather, as the home is in an area that is typically not that affected, and flat. If there is inclement weather that day, use your best judgement for your situation.

For questions or address, contact womensgroup@hvuuc.org.

February movie night is this Friday, February 13 at the church. If you didn’t buy it at the auction you are still welcome to come and pay the $10.00 at the door.

Hors d’oeuvres will be served at 6:30 and the movie starts at 7:00.

This month’s film is the multi Oscar-winning film “Moonstruck” Starring Cher, Nicolas Cage and Olivia Dukakis along with other stars. 

We look forward to seeing you there,  Denee, Tish and Beth

Email movies@hvuuc.org with any questions.

Come celebrate with CUUPS of HVUUC. Imbolc celebrates the decrease of stress caused by the scarcity of winter. It marks the end of the darkest of days. This ritual will reassure your mind, body, and spirit that brighter days are coming. It's a time of hope.

Take what resonates with you and leave what doesn't.  

Potluck Dinner
Please bring a dish to share
Join us in Fred Ball Room

Email cuups@hvuuc.org with any questions.

Spring 2026, Path to Membership is coming soon!
Our next class will be held following potluck lunch on February 8th, 1:15-4:15.

Content will include Unitarian Universalism and our Covenant, an introduction to how our church is governed, and ways to get involved in the community. We will also have an opportunity to share spiritual journeys and we will hear from leaders of a few of our committees. Attendance does not commit you to membership but is a necessary precursor for joining.  

For questions or to reserve your seat, contact Lori or email PTM@hvuuc.org.

We look forward to seeing you there!

February 8:  Chili Cookoff!  If you would like to compete in a chili competition, please let us know at potlucks@hvuuc.org. 

Judges will range in age from 5 to  87.  Might be hard to please them all!  Are you up for the challenge? 

Everyone else, think about sides, salads, desserts, and chips.

Community Vigil: Honoring a Life of Service

We will gather as a community to honor and remember, Alex Pretti, someone who lost his life while helping others. This will be a reflective and welcoming space focused on coming together, with poetry, music, and shared moments of remembrance.

The evening is intended to be respectful, inclusive, and open to all -a time to reflect, listen, and stand together in community.

Light refreshments will be available following the gathering.

Please consider carpooling if possible.

Thursday, January 29
5:00–7:00 PM EST
Holston Valley Unitarian Universalist Church 136 Bob Jobe Rd., Johnson City

All are welcome.

Email president@hvuuc.org with any questions.

THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELED

Gather to eat a good meal and chat with friends, old and new.

• $8.00 per person

• $15 for two

• $5.00 for kids under 12

Supper begins at 6pm. Sign up by Sunday, 25th at noon-on line or by emailing WNS@Hvuuc.org.

A casual evening meal is served buffet style. Vegetarian options are always available.
Payment in cash please, in the basket as you enter the Fellowship hall.

Be sure to sign up by Sunday at noon!! We cant' shop for you if you don't let us know you are coming!!

The NUTs (Northeast Ukulele group of TN) January meetup is DATE at 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

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.


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.

A multigenerational all age is welcome game night, where we can come and spend time together as a community. Come join us up in the REZ building, bring a game you can teach or come with a spirit to learn!

Email gamegroup@hvuuc.org with any questions.

Our Youth Group is gathering on Sunday, January 18, from 4:00–6:00 pm for an evening of connection, laughter, and community magic!

During this gathering the youth will take a little time to review final details for their Potato Bowl Fundraiser happening the following Sunday, then settle into what Youth Group does best — hanging out, socializing, and having fun together. Games will be available, and youth are also welcome to bring along their favorite games to share.

Come as you are, bring your curiosity (and maybe a game or two!), and enjoy a relaxed evening with friends.

If you have any questions or would like to learn more, please reach out to our Director of Religious Education, Jess Ox, at dre@hvuuc.org

The first of the Metaphysical Meet-Up group will be held Sunday, Jan. 11th from 1 to 2 at Holston Valley UU Sanctuary. Come and brainstorm the formulation of future gatherings including topics, time and dates. ALL WELCOME.

Historically, the Holston Valley UU Church has hosted the Tri-Cities Metaphysical Group. There is great interest in re-starting this group. Therefore, an organizing meeting will be held at HVUUC on Sunday, Jan. 11th. All are invited to join the Service at 11; a potluck afterwards and/or just show-up at 1:00 and meet like-minded individuals. ALL ARE WELCOME TO JOIN!

Email metaphysics@hvuuc.org with any questions.

Please add these dates to your calendar:

Jan. 11:  Bring dishes to share.  We are going to experiment with labels for food sensitivities.  Someone will help you label your food when you bring it to the kitchen.

Feb. 8:  Chili Cookoff!  If you would like to compete, please email Fellowship@hvuuc.org. Judges will range in age from 5 to 87.  Might be hard to please them all.  Are you ready for the challenge? Everyone else, bring salads, sides, chips, desserts.

March 08: Bring a dish to share.

April 12:  Bring a dish to share.

May 10:  Bring a dish to share with a focus on salads.

Email potlucks@hvuuc.org with any questions.

Those who identify as male are invited to a social gathering and 2026 planning session on Saturday, January 10th from 12:30-3:30pm at Bradley's house. Please speak with Bradley Q or email macho@hvuuc.org for the address; RSVPs are requested.

Bradley will provide a delicious Butter Chicken dish as the main course. Please include any dietary restrictions or allergies in your reply if you plan to attend. Participants are encouraged to bring a side, dessert, or drink for a potluck meal. Alcohol is permitted but you'll need to bring your own.

After lunch, we’ll hold a planning session to discuss social and service events for 2026. All who identify as male and are interested in the future of the men’s group are strongly encouraged to attend.

Note - Bradley asks that participants enter through the porch door.

Multigenerational game night where parents and children are welcome to come and enjoy each others company!

Email gamegroup@hvuuc.org with any questions.

"Safe Here" Task Group Report
ZOOM: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86524470377
All Members are welcome.

SAFE HERE Task Force Report to the Board:

Topics Addressed:
● Define domestic abuse in its many forms.
● Offer guidance on responding to allegations of domestic abuse in its many forms.
● Suggest ongoing education opportunities to make the entire congregation more aware of and responsive to trauma and its effects on every aspect of a person's life.
● Provide information on ways to appropriately support survivors in taking back their autonomy.
● Provide information on ways to appropriately support abusers in taking accountability for their action.

Email president@hvuuc.org with any questions.

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

The featured activity for January 2nd's Women's Night is the annual Silly Santa gift exchange game (like a white elephant exchange). Bring ONE wrapped gift - but we don't ask you to spend money if you can help it. Did cousin Madge gift you something that is lovely, just not your thing? Is there something you have that is in good shape, that could be a treasure for someone, just not you? Did you receive Kalua at a work event but you don't drink? It is fair game for Silly Santa. We take turns picking a mystery gift or choosing to 'steal' an opened gift from someone else. Evening starts at 6:30, game starts at 7 p.m. If you cannot bring a Silly Santa gift, you are still welcome to attend - extra items are provided by the host.

Sharing of easy finger-food snacks and libations is 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.

Weather: event will proceed. If weather is a potential issue, use your best judgement and your own ease with getting out of your neighborhood.

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: Carpooling is suggested. There is parking in the space in the alley, shotgun parking in the driveway, or street parking.

For questions, contact womensgroup@hvuuc.org.

The annual tradition called Pancakes and Jam is coming up on December 28th, 2025. This is a fun, casual morning where we all gather for breakfast and musical 'jam'. This is in place of a traditional sermon-based service that morning.

Come one, come all, to Pancakes and Jam. This is a tradition at HVUUC offering a fun opportunity for fellowship in a novel manner. At 10:30 our M.A.C.H.O. group cooks pancakes and provides other breakfast staples such as fruit, yogurt, bacon or sausage (and vegan alternatives). We join in and eat. Wearing festive PJ's is encouraged but not required.

Then, at 11 a.m. we start a musical portion of the morning during which friends and members share their talents. Breakfast and a show, if you will.  

Making it all happens takes a village. You can help in one of two ways:

1. Meal setup, prep, and cleanup:
All those who identify as men: please contact Doug C. at MACHO@HVUUC.org to volunteer to help make this a success.
NOTE: M.A.C.H.O. stands for "Men Achieving Community Helping Others."

2. Talent:

Singers, players of instruments, poets of all ages and levels:
Please contact PancakesAndJam@HVUUC.org, preferably by or before December 27th.

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.

Join the HVUUC choir in some Christmas caroling to some of our homebound members and friends of the church after service this Sunday December 21st.

Homemade white chicken chili will be provided to all carolers during Coffee Hour, and departure time will be 12:45.

Please contact musicdirector@hvuuc.org with any questions.

CUUPS will host a winter solstice/ Yule ritual on Sat 12/20/2025 at 6:00pm.

Join CUUPS in honoring Yule.  Activities this year we include a ritual, bonfire, potluck dinner, and a "dirty" Santa gift exchange. All are welcome.

For the gift exchange hand crafted items are welcome, purchased gifts should be be limited to $15-25.

Email cuups@hvuuc.org with any questions.

Come one, Come all to the regular Friday game night Friday Between 530 and 930 pm!

Email gamegroup@hvuuc.org with any questions.

TN Renters United is a statewide organization of renters fighting for tenant rights and truly affordable housing. This gathering is for people who want to connect to others with similar values, learn more about this issue, and get involved in the cause.

Potluck will begin at 6pm and all are welcome with or without bringing food to share.

Email alesha@hvuuc.org with any questions.

Join us on December 14th for second Sunday Potluck.

Bring a treat to share and, if you like, the recipe on a card or piece of paper.  The card/paper will be beside the treat.  Thus, anyone who wants a copy of the recipe can easily snap a picture.  What a great way to add to your recipe file.

All are welcome, whether or not you’re able to bring a dish.

Email potlucks@hvuuc.org with any questions.

Join CUUPS as we host an ecstatic trance class this Saturday Oct 4th at 6:00pm.

We will be teaching a technique developed by Felicitas Goodman.  Class will include an overview of Goodman's work, a discussion of ecstatic trance, and a demonstration of a trance posture.  

Please wear comfortable clothes.  Journaling material will be provided if needed.  All are welcome. We will be meeting in the Meditation Hall in the REZ.  

Email cuups@hvuuc.org with any questions.