BrightStone

STAR of the Week-Jock

2012-02-03T16:02:00.002-06:00

Jock is fascinated by the weather, and enjoys watching the weather channel and checking out books about the weather at the library. Jock is also the person that requested we sing Elvira, which is now our signature song that we sing at the end of each music class. Jock is an "old timer" at BrightStone and his favorite activiites include painting, bowling, computer and playing basketball.

STAR of the Week--Jon

2012-02-03T15:58:00.002-06:00

Jon is our tech guy. He is the one we go to when our remotes are messed up or we need to hook up the Wii. He is also the guy you go to if you want to talk about sports. Jon is a good sport and is ready to participate in all of our activities. His favorites are painting, grocery shopping, reading, playing basketball and helping cook lunch.

Star of the Week: Elissa

2012-01-27T15:01:00.002-06:00

Miss Elissa is a good friend to everyone at BrightStone. She is caring and is always concerned about any of her friends that are sick or absent. She is also a very consistent worker and likes to complete her jobs. He BrightStone favorites include painting, eating at Chick-fil-A, computer activities, and using the exercise equipment. Way to go, Elissa!

Star of the Week: Stephen

2012-01-27T14:54:00.002-06:00

Stephen started coming to BrightStone last September and a happy, fun young man. He is ready and willing to try all of our activities. Although he enjoys our fun activities, he is also a great worker. His favorite job at BrightStone is painting. He also enjoys bowling, computer activities, saying the prayer before lunch, and stretching exercises. Good job, Stephen!

Star of the Week : Kate

2012-01-20T14:54:00.003-06:00

Kate is a hard worker with a caring heart. Her greatest joy is helping her friends! Kate says she enjoys working in consumables, helping cook lunch, attending classes in the learning lab, and going to Chick-fil-A. In her leisure time, she enjoys watching Wheel of Fortune, eating at Outback Steakhouse, and watching the Tennessee Vols. Good job, Kate!

Star of the Week: Bobby

2012-01-20T14:46:00.002-06:00

Bobby has been coming to BrightStone since September. He's an excellent worker and has made lots of new friends with his gentle, kind spirit. His BrightStone favorites are working in ceramics, computer acitvities, going to the library, and walking at the YMCA. In his leisure time he likes to watch Dancing With the Stars, listen to country music, and watch the Tennessee Vols. We are proud of you, Bobby!

Star of the Week: Justin

2012-01-13T14:39:00.002-06:00

Justin is serious about everything he's involved in, and he takes pride in his work at BrightStone. Justin is happy to share with everyone the importance of his job; he's a great ambassador for BrightStone! His favorite activities are working in ceramics, computer activities, helping serve lunch, playing basketball, and our occasional trips to Chick-fil-A. Good job, Justin!

Star of the Week: Barbra

2012-01-13T14:36:00.003-06:00

Barbra's charm is that she's easygoing and all smiles all the time! She is a consistent worker and seems to really enjoy her time at BrightStone. When she's here, her favorite activities are working in ceramics, playing ball, computer activities, and helping cook lunch. During her leisure time at home, she enjoys listening to country music, playing with her dog, Molly, and watching the X-Factor. Way to go, Barbra!

Star of the Week: Sarah

2012-01-06T15:45:00.003-06:00

Sarah takes great pride in the work she does at BrightStone and gives it her best effort. She is also very talented at singing and dancing. While at BrightStone, Sarah says she enjoys playing basketball, painting, bowling, learning activities on the computer, and helping cook lunch. Good job, Miss Sarah!

Star of the Week: Catherine

2012-01-06T15:30:00.004-06:00

Catherine started coming to BrightStone last July and never missed a beat; she immediately fit in! She is very social and enjoys her daily interaction with her friends. Her BrightStone favorites include stretching exercises, painting, grocery shopping, helping cook lunch, and playing games with her friends. Way to go, Catherine!

Christmas Program & Reception

2011-12-13T08:21:00.005-06:00

Our Annual Christmas Program and Reception was a great success! Over 450 friends from all over middle Tennessee joined us in Jamison Hall to see our adults perform and to enjoy refreshments provided by Jo's Custom Cakes & Catering. Thank you to everyone who came out - our adults have been working on the show all year and were so proud to show off their hard work and talent!

See pictures from the evening here.

Guys Ready for Christmas Parade

2011-12-03T14:31:00.002-06:00

And our guys were not to be outdone! Here's Don and Bobby sporting their Christmas sweaters!

Christmas Elves

2011-12-03T14:27:00.003-06:00

Jennifer and Catherine were our Christmas elves today!

Franklin Christmas Parade

2011-12-03T14:23:00.002-06:00

Several BrightStone adults participated in the Franklin Christmas parade today. What fun!

Star of the Week: Jeff

2011-12-02T17:14:00.003-06:00

Jeff has been on top of his game lately! He comes in every morning with a huge smile, ready for the day. He sits on the front row in the Christmas program so be sure and watch his feet; he is a great toe-tapper! While at BrightStone, Jeff's favorite activities are working in consumables, computer activities, eating at Chick-fil-A, and helping cook lunch. Congratulations, Jeff!

Star of the Week: Jennifer

2011-12-02T17:10:00.009-06:00

Jennifer will be wearing an elf costume and walking in the Franklin Christmas Parade tomorrow. We guess elves come in all sizes! Jennifer does a great job as an elf. Her BrightStone favorites include working in consumables, bowling, computer activities, and saying the prayer before lunch. Way to go, Jennifer!

BrightStone's Holiday Happenings

2011-11-21T15:40:00.001-06:00

Holiday Happenings

Mark your calendar for these upcoming BrightStone events!

November 28
Spirit Night at Chick-fil-A (Columbia Ave.)

5:00 pm to 8:00 pm

Join us for all sorts of entertainment, including music, dancing, karaoke, face-painting, and short performances by our BrightStone adults at 5:00, 6:00, & 7:00.

When you purchase your meal, tell the Chick-fil-A staff you are supporting BrightStone's Spirit Night!

December 1-3
BrightStone's Jingle Bell Sale

140 Southeast Parkway Court in Franklin

December 1, 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm

(Sneak-A-Peek night, $5 donation at door)

December 2, 10 am to 6 pm

December 3, 10 am to 3 pm

Visit our biggest sale of the year for fabulous gift items hand-crafted by BrightStone's special adults!

December 8
BrightStone's Annual Christmas Program and Reception

"Santa Claus is Back in Town"

Jamison Hall, The Factory at Franklin

6:30 pm

This heart-warming performance, and the reception that follows, are BrightStone's gift to the community!

December 15
Chili's Give Back Night (Columbia Ave.)

Use our flier and eat at Chili's between 11 am and 10 pm on December 15, and Chili's will donate 10% of proceeds from your meal to BrightStone.

Watch for an upcoming email with more information (and the flier), but mark your calendar now!

Star of the Week: Allen

2011-11-21T10:02:00.003-06:00

Allen is one of our dancers in the Christmas Program and he's doing a great job. Be sure to come and see him! Allen shows up every morning with a big smile, ready for the day. His BrightStone favorites list includes working in consumables, bowling, computer activities, using the exercise equipment, and helping serve lunch. Way to go, Allen!

Star of the Week: Chase

2011-11-21T09:59:00.002-06:00

Chase takes pride in his work and is good at all of our BrightStone jobs. In his leisure time, Chase enjoys doing worksheets; what a great hobby to keep his mind sharp! While at BrightStone, Chase says he enjoys working in consumables, grocery shopping, helping cook lunch, and exercising at the YMCA. Congratulations, Chase!

Star of the Week: Jessica

2011-11-11T16:01:00.002-06:00

Star of the Week: Jessica
Jessica's favorite thing about being star of the week is getting to go grocery shopping with Billy and Theresa. She's a great shopper! Jessica's BrightStone favorites are working in consumables, bowling, playing games, and playing ball at the YMCA. In her leisure time, she enjoys the Disney channel, eating at Red Lobster, and playing with her dogs, Max and Daisy. Way to go, Jessica!

Star of the Week: Al

2011-11-11T15:59:00.001-06:00

We helped Al celebrate his 26th birthday this week. He took one quick look in the birthday box and picked out a movie! Movie watching is one of his favorite leisure activities. While at BrightStone, Al enjoys working in consumables, computer activities, and playing ball. We know his family would want us to mention that LSU is his favorite football team, too. Congratulations, Al!

Star of the Week: Tara "the Bug"

2011-11-04T14:37:00.003-05:00

Tara was so cute on Monday at the Halloween party - she was dressed up like Raggedy Anne, and she looked great in her costume! Tara, like Kelly M., is a die hard BrightStone girl, and she treasures each of her BrightStone friends. Tara's favorite BrightStone activities include music with Judy, grocery shopping, cooking with Theresa, and working in mixes. Way to go, Tara!

Star of the Week: Kelly M.

2011-11-04T14:34:00.004-05:00

Kelly is a BrightStone girl; she is never ready to go home because she enjoys her friends and all of our activities! Her favorites list includes working in mixes, shopping, computer activities, cooking, and playing basketball at the YMCA. Congratulations, Miss Kelly!

STAR OF THE WEEK--MIKE

2011-10-28T15:54:00.002-05:00

"Gentle as a lamb" are the words that best describe Mike. He tries his hardest to do whatever he is asked, but he never takes his mind off his favorite people. It could be someone at BrightStone, but is most likely one of his favorite entertainers. While at BrightStone Mike says he enjoys painting, bowling, computer activities and saying the prayer before lunch. Carrie Underwood is his favorite singer. He also enjoys eating at Poncho's.

STAR OF THE WEEK-MICHAEL

2011-10-28T15:50:00.003-05:00

It is heart warming to see how emotional Michael gets as his name is called to be "Star of the Week!" He is thrilled at the honor! Michael has been coming to BrightStone from the very beginning. He enjoys working in consumables, bowling, computer activities, and helping cook lunch. In his leisure time, he says he listens to Michael Jackson music, rides horses, and enjoys eating at O'Charley's.

Star of the Week: Ali

2011-10-21T16:05:00.003-05:00

Ali has been very social lately wanting to visit with all his friends. It is so wonderful to see him feeling so well and enthusiastic. His favorite BrightStone activities are working in consumables, computer activities, bowling, and using the exercise equipment. In his leisure time, he enjoys watching the Disney Channel and eating at Olive Garden. Way to go, Ali!

Star of the Week: Kelly U.

2011-10-21T16:03:00.001-05:00

Kelly had a special twinkle in her eye when her name was called as star of the week. She has had a good week and proudly answered the questions about her favorite activities. During her leisure time, she enjoys listening to oldies and eating at Red Lobster. Her favorite TV show is the Joy Behar show, and her favorite BrightStone job is painting. Kelly also enjoys shopping, computer activities, and helping serve lunch. Good Job, Miss Urban!

Christmas Cards are in!

2011-10-18T16:15:00.003-05:00

Our 2011 BrightStone Christmas Cards are in!

View and order cards here.

Each of our cards was designed by our special adults, and this year's cards are too precious to pass up!

Also, if you order online, we'll throw in 2 of our BrightStone classic Christmas cards for free.

Order yours today!

Holiday Hullabaloo

2011-10-17T14:16:00.002-05:00

Check out pictures from Holiday Hullabaloo here!

This event was hosted by Helping Hands - Caring Hearts, a charitable organization within Polk Place, and it benefited BrightStone. Thank you to our wonderful neighbors for hosting this FUNdraiser for us!

Star of the Week: Brian

2011-10-14T15:52:00.002-05:00

Star of the Week: Brian
Brian doesn't bowl with us often because he doesn't come to BrightStone on Fridays, but he did bowl with us this week at Special Olympics, and he really got into his game! He's a man of few words, but the smiles of satisfaction when he knocked lots of pins down was priceless! Brian's BrightStone favorites are painting, playing basketball, and playing computer games. Good job, Brian!

Star of the Week: Elissa

2011-10-14T15:31:00.003-05:00

Star of the Week: Elissa
Elissa started coming to BrightStone in January and seems to enjoy every minute of her time here. In fact, she wasn't too thrilled to go on a family trip this weekend because it meant missing Sloppy Joes for lunch today! She says she enjoys using our exercise equipment, working in consumables, bowling, and computer activities. Congratulations, Elissa!

Star of the Week (last week!): Jenny

2011-10-11T16:29:00.002-05:00

Star of the Week (last week!): Jenny
Jenny is always tidying up around BrightStone. She wants to make sure all the chairs are pushed under the tables in the multi-purpose room, and when we're loading the bus, she says in a loud voice, "Come on, let's go!" and gets tickled at herself and laughs. (Jenny's got a great sense of humor!) Jenny's BrightStone favorites are grocery shopping, working puzzles, working in the consumables room, and doing stretching exercises. Good job, Jenny Ann!

Star of the Week (last week!): Don

2011-10-11T16:25:00.003-05:00

Star of the Week (last week!): Don
Don is very pleasant and always cooperative. He has impaired vision and had to learn the routine at BrightStone; now that he's comfortable here, he enjoys being with the BrightStone family and doing all of our activities. Don says his favorite activities are painting pots, bowling, computer activities, helping cook lunch and doing stretching exercises. In his leisure time, he enjoys listening to country music and eating at McDonald's. Way to go, Don!

Thanks to our Ensworth volunteers!

2011-10-07T16:32:00.004-05:00

A big thank you to the Ensworth volunteers who came to spend the day with our adults. What a great group of young men and women!

Star of the Week (last week!): Barbara D.

2011-10-07T16:29:00.004-05:00

Barbara is a talented lady who enjoys drawing and playing the piano in her spare time. She gives her best to all of our BrightStone jobs and says consumables is her favorite. She also enjoys computer activities, bowling, helping cook lunch and walking for exercise. Way to go, Barbara!

Star of the Week (last week!): Jon

2011-10-07T16:25:00.004-05:00

Jon is our all around sports guy. He likes and plays many different sports; he's great at basketball and golf! He played in the BrightStone golf tournament on Tuesday and did a great job. When he's at BrightStone, Jon enjoys painting, bowling, helping serve lunch, stretching exercises and sudoku puzzles. Good job, Jon!

STAR OF THE WEEK: KIM

2011-09-24T20:42:00.004-05:00

Kim is just a friendly southern lady. She quickly tells everyone she meets, "Hi, I'm Kim. How are you doing?" Kim's BrightStone favorites list includes painting pots, doing worksheets, helping serve lunch, using the exercise equipment, and going to Chick-fil-A. In her leisure time, she enjoys playing with her dog, Little Boy.

STAR OF THE WEEK: JEFF

2011-09-24T20:35:00.003-05:00

Jeff keeps himself busy with Facebook and listening to gospel and country music. He also enjoys playing the piano. During his BrightStone time, his favorite activities are working in consumables, computer activities, helping cook lunch, going to Chick-fil-A for a Friday treat, and stretching exercises.

Star of the Week: Kate

2011-09-16T16:23:00.001-05:00

Star of the Week: Kate
Kate is a wonderful lady who is quick to help whenever she can. She told us that her BrightStone favorites include mixes, shopping, computer activities, cooking lunch with Theresa and stretching at the YMCA. Away from BrightStone, she also enjoys dining at TGIFriday's and cheering for the Titans. Good job, Kate!

Star of the Week: Stephanie

2011-09-16T16:17:00.002-05:00

Star of the Week: Stephanie
Stephanie is a lovely lady who always has a smile on her face. Her favorite BrightStone activities include mixes, shopping, computer activities, saying her prayer before lunch and riding the exercise bike. In her leisure time she likes to listen to the Beach Boys and play with her dogs, Max and Daisy. Congratulations, Stephanie!

Meet our intern, Carol

2011-09-15T16:09:00.003-05:00

Meet Carol, an intern from Nashville State who's helping our adults make the most beautiful products you've ever seen. You won't want to miss the gorgeous pieces that will be for sale this fall and winter!

Star of the Week

2011-09-06T12:01:00.002-05:00

Star of the Week: Barbra C.
You can't find a more pleasant, easy-going lady than Barbra. She is always ready for whatever comes at BrightStone! Barbra is a great bowler and a very good helper in the BrightStone kitchen. Her BrightStone favorites include painting, bowling, computer activities, and playing ball. Good job, Barbra C.!

Star of the Week

2011-09-06T11:58:00.001-05:00

Star of the Week: Catherine
Catherine is one of our newest students, but it's almost like she's been here since day 1! She's already made some great friends, and like Barbra, she's always smiling. The BrightStone activities she enjoys the most are painting, going to the library, playing games and helping cook lunch. We are proud of you, Catherine!

Star of the Week: Jennifer

2011-08-26T14:53:00.005-05:00

Star of the Week: Jennifer
Jennifer is a people person, and her favorite thing about BrightStone is all the friends she's made here. Every day she's here, she gives everyone a personal greeting when they come in the door. Jennifer was thrilled to be selected as Star of the Week and get to go grocery shopping with Theresa and Billy. Her BrightStone favorites are stretching exercises, working in consumables, computer activities and helping cook lunch. Good job, Jennifer!

Star of the Week: Cathy

2011-08-26T14:45:00.002-05:00

Star of the Week: Cathy
Cathy just had a birthday and is pushing the big 6-0. She is a feisty lady with a great spirit and sparkle in her eyes. She takes pride in her work and is always willing to show everyone the good job she does. Her BrightStone favorites include using the exercise machines, working in consumables, grocery shopping and helping cook lunch. Way to go, Cathy!

Star of the Week: Allen

2011-08-19T15:30:00.003-05:00

Star of the Week: Allen

Allen has lived in Franklin for about two years in a supported living home, and he has done great there! He also does a great job at BrightStone and enjoys participating in all of our activities. We are proud of you, Allen! Allen's favorite things include:
Physical activity: exercise bikes
Daily living job: praying before lunch
Music: church choir
Animal: horse

Star of the Week: Jessica

2011-08-19T15:18:00.002-05:00

Star of the Week: Jessica

Jessica is a fun girl who is very friendly to everyone. She and our newest student Catherine have become good friends quickly! You can always catch them teasing and laughing, and it's great to see them having such a good time.Good job, Jessica! Jessica's favorite activities include:
BrightStone job: consumables
Recreational activity: library
Music: Beach Boys
Animal: her dogs Max and Daisy

STAR OF THE WEEK

2011-08-12T18:11:00.003-05:00

Chase is a great painter and takes pride in his work. No wonder he said that painting was his favorite BrightStone job! Chase is very competitive and is also good at basketball and bowling.

Favorites include: Playing ball at the YMCA, painting, bowling, computer activities, praying before lunch, taco salad, Disney channel, music by Josh Turner, the color blue, puppies, Pancho's, and basketball.

STAR OF THE WEEK

2011-08-12T18:07:00.002-05:00

Ali has been so excited to be back at BrightStone this week. He has just returned from a trip to Iran for about 6 weeks. He brought gifts to everyone. We all know there is joy in giving, and Ali has had a wonderful time distributing his gifts.

Favorites: Playing ball, working in consumables, bowling, computer games, praying before lunch, hamburgers, the Disney channel, pop music, the color red, fish, O'Charley's, and the TN Titans.

Spirit Night @ Chick-fil-A

2011-08-08T17:00:00.003-05:00

The South Franklin Chick-fil-A (on Columbia Ave.) recently hosted a BrightStone Spirit Night, and 20% of the evening's sales benefited BrightStone! We are so grateful for our wonderful neighbors at Chick-fil-A and for everyone who came out to eat chicken with our adults, their families, and the BrightStone staff. Eating chicken to support BrightStone is definitely a win-win, and we're looking forward to more Spirit Nights at Chick-fil-A in the future!

Click here to see some pictures from the evening.

Star of the Week: Mike

2011-08-05T16:25:00.002-05:00

Star of the Week: Mike
Mike enjoys coming to BrightStone and has made great friendships over the years. One interesting thing about Mike is that he impersonates people; listen closely and you'll hear him practicing this skill in a low voice. Whether it's one of the BrightStone staff-members or one of his favorite celebrities, it's great to have him show off some of his impersonations. Way to go, Mike!
Favorite BrightStone job: painting
Favorite learning activity: computer
Favorite daily living job: praying before lunch
Favorite singer: Carrie Underwood

Star of the Week: Michael

2011-08-05T15:12:00.003-05:00

Star of the Week: Michael
Michael is overjoyed when his name is called as Star of the Week. It's obvious he appreciates the recognition for the work he does! Michael is a busy guy who enjoys camping, fishing, riding horses and going to antique car shows. We are proud of you, Michael!
Favorite physical activity: playing ball
Favorite BrightStone job: ceramics
Favorite Animal: horses
Favorite sport to watch: hockey

Star of the Week: Kelly M.

2011-07-29T16:15:00.001-05:00

Star of the Week: Kelly M.
Kelly is a hard-working, active young lady who is always ready for her BrightStone day. Here are some of her favorite things:
BrightStone job: working in consumables
Learning activity: worksheets and sorting buttons
Daily living job: helping cook lunch
Music group: Selah (gospel)
Animal: her dog Pixie
Sports team: Tennessee Titans

Star of the Week: Brian

2011-07-29T15:58:00.004-05:00

Star of the Week: Brian
Brian is a great worker who loves working on his puzzle and word search books. Here are some of his favorite things:
BrightStone job: painting
Recreational activity: bowling
BrightStone lunch: spaghetti
TV show: game shows
Restaurant: McDonalds
Sport: Basketball

Star of the Week: Philip

2011-07-22T16:07:00.002-05:00

Star of the Week: Philip

Sometimes Philip is referred to as a gentle giant; this is an accurate description of this tall, gentle man, who has a great sense of humor! You could also call him Mr. Manners - he has a great smile and is always very courteous. Philip's list of BrightStone favorites include working in consumables, going to the library, working puzzles, walking and stretching exercises and praying before lunch. Good job, Philip!

Star of the Week: Elissa

2011-07-22T16:02:00.004-05:00

Star of the Week: Elissa

BrightStone seems to be the perfect fit for Elissa , who is one of our newer students. Elissa has become a good friend to all the BrightStone staff and students and has quickly adapted to all of our activities. She is a great worker and takes pride in seeing her work completed. Her favorite work area is consumables. She also enjoys playing basketball, bowling, computer activities and cooking. Oh, and we forgot to mention...Elissa loves birthday parties and she has come to the right place! Way to go Elissa!

Star of the Week

2011-07-15T15:13:00.002-05:00

Star of the Week: Kelly U.

Everyone knows Kelly Marie is our earring queen; she enjoys amazing us with the biggest hoop-de-hoops she can find! When Kelly gets started she can crank out the work, and she says painting is her favorite job. She also enjoys playing basketball, going to the library, cooking and computer activities. You are a good girl, Kelly Marie!

Star of the Week

2011-07-15T15:09:00.003-05:00

Star of the Week: Sarah

Sarah is a fun girl who loves dancing and music. In her leisure time, she enjoys listening to Carrie Underwood, watching the Disney Channel, and cheering for the Texas Rangers. At BrightStone, her favorite activities are working in ceramics, shopping, playing basketball, cooking and computer activities. Way to go, Sarah!

Happy Fourth of July!

2011-07-01T09:19:00.004-05:00

BrightStone will be closed July 4-8 for Summer Break. We wish you a very happy Fourth of July and, as excited as we are to go on vacation, we can't wait to come back on the 11th and keep doing what we do!

If you'll be with family and friends over this holiday weekend, think about asking them if they'd like to join you for Bowlability this year. Teams of up to 6 people (and individuals who are putting together teams) can register NOW at firstgiving.com/BrightStone!

(Bowlability dates are August 15 and 16, and time slots are 5:30 to 7:30 and 7:30 to 9:30 each night. Reserve your night and time slot now by emailing your team name and date/time choice to elizebeth.tucker@brightstone.org.)

Star of the Week

2011-07-01T09:09:00.002-05:00

Star of the Week: Don

Don is a great guy with a pleasant disposition. He comes in every morning greeting each person with a great big smile. He says painting is his favorite work area and he also enjoys basketball, bowling, and praying before lunch. In his leisure time, he enjoys eating at Cracker Barrel, watching car races and listening to country music. Good job, Don!

Star of the Week

2011-07-01T09:02:00.004-05:00

Star of the Week: Kate
Kate is always ready for the happenings at BrightStone. She's willing to volunteer when help is needed - we treasure her enthusiasm! Her BrightStone favorites include working in consumables, bowling, playing basketball at the YMCA, helping cook lunch and learning activities on the computer. Way to go, Kate!

Staff Service Awards

2011-06-30T14:40:00.006-05:00

Yesterday, in addition to saying goodbye to Jill, we celebrated BrightStone staff members who have reached a milestone in their service to BrightStone.

Sara Grossholz, Jill Harper, Jerry Martin, and Lettie Wheeler all received 5-year service awards, and Martha Oldham and Dru Victory received 10-year service awards. BrightStone is so blessed to have dedicated staff members who commit years of their lives to help our special adults grow and succeed!

Martha Oldham, Brenda Hauk, and Dru Victory

Brenda and Jill Harper

Brenda and Lettie Wheeler

Goodbye to Jill

2011-06-29T14:50:00.005-05:00

Today we said goodbye to Jill Harper, who has been a BrightStone teacher for 5 years and who will be missed by all our students and staff. Jill is expecting a baby boy soon and will be staying at home with her family, but we know we'll see her here from time to time.

Thank you, Jill for being such an awesome friend and teacher to everyone here at BrightStone!

One Day, Two Birthdays

2011-06-24T14:56:00.003-05:00

Yesterday we celebrated not one, but two BrightStone birthdays. Happy birthday to Jon, who turned the big 3-0, and to Chase, who's still a young'un at 23. We are so glad to have both of these young gentlemen at BrightStone!

Star of the Week

2011-06-24T14:43:00.002-05:00

Star of the Week: Katy B.

Katy is our cheerleader and encourager. She often encourages her BrightStone friends to stay on task. Katy enjoys time here and we often see her getting a laugh about some of the fun and crazy happenings that go on around here. She says her favorite work area is consumables, and she also enjoys bowling, worksheets, playing ball and cooking. Good job, Katy!

Star of the Week

2011-06-24T14:27:00.002-05:00

Star of the Week: Katie A.

Katie is our natural born entertainer; she loves to perform! One of her biggest thrills is being selected as Star of the Week - she jumps up and down and laughs uncontrollably. It's great to see how a small honor can mean so much to our guys. Our BrightStone adults teach us many things, and celebrating our small accomplishments in life is one of them. Katie's BrightStone favorites include painting, stretching and worksheets. Way to go, Katie!

Star of the Week

2011-06-17T15:09:00.002-05:00

Star of the Week: Stephanie

Stephanie is a people person. She comes in every morning greeting her friends with a smile as if she hadn't seen them in a month. What a treat! She is also a hard worker and her favorite BrightStone job is painting. Stephanie's other favorites include shopping, computer activities, riding the exercise bike and praying before lunch. In her leisure time she listens to the Beach Boys and plays with her dog, Daisy. Way to go, Stepho!

Star of the Week

2011-06-17T15:03:00.002-05:00

Star of the Week: Jeff

Jeff is our music man! He looked fabulous Wednesday sporting his cowboy hat and boots for the bluegrass band that came to visit. He brought his dobro (a type of guitar) and played along with the band. When Jeff is at BrightStone, his favorites include working in consumables, shopping, computer activities, helping cook lunch, and playing basketball. During his leisure time he enjoys being on Facebook, listening to gospel music, and eating at the Olive Garden. Good job, Jeff!

Happy Birthday, Justin!

2011-06-17T14:53:00.003-05:00

Today we celebrated Justin's 32nd birthday with not one but TWO delicious cakes. Happy birthday, Justin! We love you!!

Happy birthday, Barbara!

2011-06-14T15:38:00.002-05:00

Happy birthday to our dear Barbara, who shared a delicious strawberry cake with her BrightStone friends today!

Star of the Week

2011-06-10T14:00:00.003-05:00

Star of the Week: Kim

Kim is just a friendly southern girl from Alabama. She is always ready to tell everyone how much she loves BrightStone. Kim does a great job working and says that the paint room is her favorite work area. She also enjoys bowling, helping serve lunch, computer activities and playing ball at the YMCA. During her leisure time she likes to watch Family Feud and play with her dog, Little Boy. Way to go, Kim!

Star of the Week

2011-06-10T13:34:00.003-05:00

(Tammy with Volunteer Music Director Judy Fincannon)

Star of the Week: Tammy

Tammy was a great howling dog in the Christmas Program last year. She had lots of fun performing her part and always looks forward to music class with Judy each week. Tammy works hard and has some great skills that she brings to BrightStone. She sometimes helps with projects in the office and she's great at stuffing envelopes. One of her favorite BrightStone jobs is filling the communion trays, and she also enjoys bowling, computer activities, playing ball at the YMCA and helping serve lunch. Good job, Tammy!

Star of the Week

2011-06-03T15:04:00.003-05:00

Star of the Week: Mike

Mike is our Grand Ole Opry guy! He loves country music and has a big stack of his favorite CDs in his pocket at all times. It's a huge treat to watch him sing Elvira. BrightStone also seems to be on Mike's favorites list and he says consumables is his favorite work area. He also enjoys playing basketball at the YMCA, helping cook lunch, bowling and computer activities. Way to go, Mike!

Star of the Week

2011-06-03T14:58:00.002-05:00

Star of the Week: Tara

Tara is a lady that seems to enjoy every minute of her time at BrightStone. Her enjoyment goes beyond the many activities we do; she also enjoys her BrightStone friends! Tara is a consistent worker and says her favorite work area is the paint room. She also enjoys stretching exercises. bowling, helping cook lunch and learning activities on the computer. We are proud of you, Tara!

Friday FUN Day Visit to Chick-Fil-A

2011-05-27T15:30:00.006-05:00

We got a jump start on celebrating the holiday weekend by going to Chick-Fil-A this morning for a snack. That was a great treat, but they also set up their karaoke machine and had someone dressed up as a baby cow! We thank Ms. Judy and several other volunteers for helping with the field trip. It was great fun!

STAR OF THE WEEK

2011-05-27T15:12:00.003-05:00

Justin is a great ambassador for BrightStone. His enthusiasm has been evident when he has given a few tours around our building. You're never sure what he is going to say, but he often comes out with some priceless statements! Justin is a man who knows what he likes and he says his favorite activities at BrightStone include working in consumables, playing basketball at the YMCA, checking out big cat books at the library, computer activities and helping serve lunch.

STAR OF THE WEEK

2011-05-27T15:08:00.002-05:00

Barbra is full of joy and fun. You should have seen her dancing at the sock hop a couple of weeks ago. She had a great time! When it comes to work, Barbra is a great help. She is good at all of our jobs, but says her favorite is consumables. Her other BrightStone favorite activities include going to the library, computer activities, playing kickball and helping prepare lunch.

Stars of the Week

2011-05-20T14:29:00.004-05:00

Star of the Week: Jennifer

Jennifer is thrilled beyond words when she is announced as star of the week. She is a people person, and although she is good at all of our jobs, she says consumables is her favorite. She also enjoys doing stretching exercises, bowling, doing worksheets in the learning lab and helping serve lunch. Her favorite sports team is the Titans and her favorite singer is Keith Urban. Good job, Jennifer!

Star of the Week: Jessica

Jessica is a fun and friendly young lady. She is always very excited to see everyone each morning. Her BrightStone favorites include working in consumables, bowling, playing basketball at the YMCA, working jig saw puzzles and helping serve lunch. In her leisure time she enjoys playing with her dog, Daisy, and eating at Red Lobster. Way to go, Jessica!

Stars of the Week

2011-05-13T14:43:00.006-05:00

Star of the Week: Chase

Chase is good at all of our jobs. Without hesitation, he says the paint room is his favorite work area. His other BrightStone favorites include playing basketball at the YMCA, computer activities and helping cook lunch. In his leisure time he enjoys collecting movies and CDs. Way to go, Chase!

Star of the Week: Allen

Allen has a great time at BrightStone. He comes in with a big smile every morning and is ready for whatever the day may bring! He takes pride in his work and says his favorite work area is the mix room. He also enjoys helping cook lunch, bowling, riding the stationary bicycle, and doing learning activities in the learning lab. Good job, Allen!

It's a Spring Thing!

2011-05-10T10:19:00.004-05:00

Our It's a Spring Thing sale starts TOMORROW!

The sale runs Wednesday-Friday this week, 10 am to 5 pm each day, at our building (140 Southeast Parkway Court in Franklin).

Come check out our garden designs, bird houses, ceramics, stoneware, spring flowerpots, and more!

Free hot dogs and lemonade will be available during lunch hours each day.

As always, all sales benefit BrightStone and help fund our services for adults with special needs.

See you soon!

Star of the Week

2011-05-06T14:20:00.003-05:00

Star of the Week: Ali

We recently celebrated Ali's birthday - he came to BrightStone dressed in a suit and beautiful pink tie and looked so handsome! In Ali's leisure time, he enjoys Disney movies and catching up with his friends on Facebook. While at BrightStone, he told us his favorites are painting, computer activities, helping cook lunch and going to the library. Way to go, Ali!

Star of the Week: Kelly U.

Kelly brings a smile to BrightStone every day and enjoys joking with her friends. She enjoys working and takes pride in her accomplishments. Kelly's BrightStone favorites are ceramics, riding the exercise bikes, serving fruit at lunch, and going to the library. In her leisure time, she enjoys Elvis, Wheel of Fortune, and Red Lobster. You're a good girl, Kelly!

Special Olympics

2011-04-29T15:28:00.003-05:00

We had a fabulous day at the Special Olympics! The weather couldn't have been better, and we are so proud of our adults for their hard work and great sportsmanship. Thanks to everyone who came out to cheer on our adults! See pictures from the day here.

(Notice our blue and red polos....thanks again, Apcom, for "suiting up" team BrightStone!)

Stars of the Week

2011-04-28T20:52:00.005-05:00

Star of the Week: Kelly M.

Kelly never gets ready to go home. She often says, "It's 3:30 already"! She is very caring and is always concerned about the staff and her fellow students. She fully involves herself in all of our activities. She told us her BrightStone favorites are working in mixes, learning activities on the computer, helping cook lunch, grocery shopping, and riding the exercise bike. Good job, Kelly girl!

Star of the Week: Michael

Michael is a people person who likes to stay busy. In his leisure time, he enjoys shopping, attending antique car shows, and fishing. While at BrightStone, he gives his best effort in our work areas. Michael says his favorite BrightStone job is mixes. His other favorite activities are learning activities on the computer, helping cook lunch and playing ball ay the YMCA. We are proud of you, Michael!

Stars of the Week

2011-04-21T16:39:00.003-05:00

Star of the Week: Barbara D.
Barbara has been at BrightStone since the beginning. Two of her hobbies are drawing and playing the piano. She also enjoys attending the service for the deaf at Brentwood Baptist Church. Barbara takes pride in dong her work independently and says she enjoys painting, journaling on the computer, helping cook lunch and walking for exercise. Taco salad is her favorite BrightStone lunch. You are a great lady, Barbara!

Star of the Week: Brian
Brian is a quiet gentleman with varied interests. He enjoys keeping his mind sharp with word searches. Brian excitedly anticipates family trips to Disney World; for him, it's the happiest place on earth! He also saves his money and buys his own movies. While at BrightStone, he enjoys painting, walking for exercise, playing basketball at the YMCA, and computer activities in the learning lab. We are proud of your accomplishments at BrightStone, Brian!

Happy Birthday, Ali!

2011-04-21T16:36:00.003-05:00

Today we celebrated Ali's birthday. Doesn't he look handsome in his suit and tie? Happy birthday, Ali! We're so glad you're here!

Easter Egg Hunt

2011-04-21T16:34:00.001-05:00

Pictures from our Easter egg hunt are up! View them here.

Stars of the Week

2011-04-15T16:10:00.004-05:00

Star of the Week: Cathy
Cathy enjoys coming to BrightStone and has an infectious smile. When she goes home from BrightStone she gives her family every little detail of her day. Words that best describe Cathy are friendly, big country music fan, and great worker. Her BrightStone favorites are working in mixes, playing kickball, computer activities, praying before lunch, and going to the library. Way to go, Cathy!

Star of the Week: Philip
Philip is a tall, handsome gentleman with a warm smile. He has a gentle spirit and great manners. he often lets the BrightStone ladies know how special they are by stepping aside an saying "ladies first" when they pass. Philip's favorite BrightStone activities are painting, shopping, riding the exercise bike, working puzzles and saying the prayer before lunch. Good job, Philip!

Stars of the Week

2011-04-08T15:43:00.010-05:00

Star of the Week: Katie A.

When Katie is feeling her best she can work like crazy. She works with speed and great enthusiasm. There is nothing better than a Katie smile. We all know she was born to perform; we've all enjoyed her at our Christmas programs! While at BrightStone Katie enjoys painting, worksheets in the learning lab, shopping, exercising, and saying the prayer before lunch. Way to go, Katie!

Star of the Week: Elissa

Elissa started coming to BrightStone in January. She is friendly and quickly learned everyone's name. Elissa takes pride in her work and has adapted well to all of our activities. Her BrightStone favorites include working in mixes, computer activities, helping cook lunch, playing kick ball and going to the library. We are glad to have you at BrightStone, Elissa!

Stars of the Week

2011-04-01T13:46:00.003-05:00

Star of the Week: Kate
While visiting the Y this week, Kate held the door for everyone. After we all went in, there was an older gentleman behind us for whom she also held the door. He thanked her and commented that she was a pretty young lady with a beautiful smile. Our guys are often noticed for the good they do when we are out in th...e community. Thank you, Kate, for your many kind gestures; they often bless others! Kate's BrightStone favorites include working in mixes, shopping, computer activities, stretching exercises and helping cook lunch. Good job, Kate!

Star of the Week: Don
Don started coming to BrightStone last fall. He has a gentle and sweet spirit, and he is very flexible. Don has limited eyesight, but he happily goes along with our diverse schedule and seems to enjoy all of our activities. Don's BrightStone favorites list includes working in the paint room, helping cook lunch, bo...wling, and basketball. Baked potato bar is his favorite BrightStone lunch. In his leisure time, he enjoys gospel music, watching Wheel of Fortune, and eating at Olive Garden. Congratulations, Don!

Happy birthday, Stephanie!

2011-03-31T15:53:00.005-05:00

Happy birthday to Stephanie, who shared a Shrek themed birthday party with her BrightStone friends at lunch today. What a fun way to celebrate a fun young lady!

BrightStone on FranklinIs.com

2011-03-27T13:18:00.004-05:00

Check out this story on a recent gift Apcom employees made to BrightStone:

http://www.franklinis.com/gift-of-music

We love our friends at Apcom!

Happy Birthday, Allen!

2011-03-17T16:38:00.002-05:00

Today we celebrated Allen's birthday (along with St. Paddy's Day, of course!). Happy birthday, Allen! We looove your cool Irish hat. :)

Happy Birthday, Kelly!

2011-03-17T10:35:00.003-05:00

We recently celebrated Kelly U.'s birthday at BrightStone. Happy (belated) birthday, Kelly!

Happy Birthday Mike!

2011-03-16T14:42:00.003-05:00

On Monday we celebrated Big Mike's birthday with cake and ice cream. Happy birthday, Big Mike!

Stars of the Week (last week!)

2011-03-14T09:06:00.003-05:00

Star of the Week: Tammy

Tammy takes pride in her work, whether it’s making a craft or working inone of our work areas. She gets excited about her accomplishments and transfers her joy to all around her. Tammy’s favorite BrightStone activities include mixes, computer activities, bowling, playing ball at the YMCA and helping serve lunch. Way to go, Tammy!

Star of the Week: Katy B.

Katy is a very observant young lady. You can catch many smiles on her face as she observes all that goes on at BrightStone. She never wants to miss a minute of all the happenings around here. She told us her BrightStone favorite list includes mixes, work sheets in the learning lab, helping cook lunch, bowling and playing ball at the YMCA. Congratulations, Katy!

Artwork by BrightStone Adults

2011-03-10T10:21:00.010-06:00

These art pieces have been submitted to the Waves art show, An Artist's Window, by BrightStone adults. The show will take place this Friday, 3/11/11 at 5:30 pm outside Jamison Hall and features artists with developmental disabilities. At the show you can purchase artwork, mingle and enjoy a bite to eat while listening to live music.

We are so proud of our BrightStone artists!

Tammy's Bowl by Tammy

Sunburst Trees by Barbra

Spring Flowers by Stephanie

Peace by Kate

One Spring Day by Tara

Katy's Choice by Katy

It's Football Time by Jon

Grapes by Philip

Fallen Leaves by Jessica

Leadership Franklin visits BrightStone

2011-03-09T15:25:00.005-06:00

Leadership Franklin's class of 2011 visited BrightStone today as part of their "Quality of Life" Day. We were glad to give them a tour of the building and let them see our adults at their work!

Happy birthday Tara!

2011-03-08T13:01:00.002-06:00

Happy birthday to our sweet Tara. We love you!

Stars of the Week

2011-03-04T14:03:00.004-06:00

Star of the Week: Sarah
One of Sarah’s talents is being a good dancer. She may need to try out for Dancing with the Stars! On her birthday last year, she composed and read a really sweet letter to everyone at BrightStone. One of the lines in the letter said, “I love my new friends at BrightStone and I don’t ever want them to go away.” How priceless is that? Sarah told us her BrightStone favorites include working in mixes, bowling, playing basketball at the YMCA, computer activities and helping Theresa cook lunch. Good job, Sarah!

Star of the Week: Tara
Tara is a very caring young lady. She is always concerned about all of her friends at BrightStone. Tara takes pride in her work and says mixes is her favorite work area. Tara is a girl who knows what she likes and her BrightStone favorites include computer activities, using the exercise machines, cooking with Theresa and grocery shopping. Tara’s birthday is Monday – we will do our best to make it a happy one. Congratulations, Tara!

Happy birthday Katie!

2011-03-01T14:56:00.005-06:00

Today we celebrated Katie A's birthday in style with bright, pretty decorations, Chick-Fil-A, lots of smiles and plenty of sunshine. Everyone is in high spirits today, especially sweet Katie who was glad to share all the birthday love with her friends!