At a recent practice, Evergreen Gymnastics owner Tiara Racicot gently coaxed a young gymnast who stood hesitant on the balance beam. “We had a little oops last night, what’d we do?” Racicot said, as she coached a handful of advanced gymnasts ages 9 to 10. “We slowed down, yes? OK, are you going?”
Spokane Valley physician assistant Kevin Bichler prefers spending an hour getting to know a patient, a model he says is getting lost. Six months ago, he and his wife opened Optimal Healthcare, a family medicine practice they say is aimed at slowing down the appointment pace. At 12418 E. Saltese Road near Pines Road and 16th Avenue, the practice now has 250 patients and is growing by 10 to 15 new clients each week.
Chanoa Marx describes her middle-school mindset as uncaring, even horrible. She struggled socially, sat in the back of class, didn’t listen as teachers taught. Change came after her decision to attend Barker High School because of its small size.
While Kyle Hansen excels in academics and music, his writing captures attention. His prose has won acclaim nationally. West Valley High School English teacher Kamiel Youseph said Hansen is a writer who strives to refine already well-written pieces. Hansen’s award-winning essay about a first turkey hunt showcases that ability.
East Valley High School senior Christina Nelson has turned loss into inspiration. After her mother died of breast cancer this past fall, Nelson spent her academic year encouraging others and found wide support in return. She raised money to fight the disease and continued doing what she loves – classes, sports and her volunteer job as football team manager.
