Whitefish takes top honors for health care costs

A recent nationwide survey ranks Whitefish as one of the least expensive rural hospital service areas for Medicare costs, second only to Bonners Ferry, Idaho. North Valley Hospital's costs are 51 percent lower than the national average for Medicare costs, the survey states.

Outdoor news

Uphill skiing

George Udell Sharp

One of the world's most loving men passed away on Thursday, May 30. Surrounded by his wife, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, George Udell Sharp, 94, found his wings and soared. No longer tethered by the pains and cares of this world, he left behind: his wife of 67 years, Roberta; his children Crystal Burnette, Alyce Reuter, Udell (Shelley) Sharp, Barbara (Larry) Dana, William (Eva) Sharp, Paul Sharp and Rene Van Meter.  He was preceded in death by eldest daughter, Martha. George was also survived by 23 grandchildren and 33 great-grandchildren. On April 29, 1919, he was born in Richland County, Wis. to William Sharp & Barbara Leffler Sharp.  George enlisted in the US Army on August 7, 1941, and was aboard the Empire Javelin when it was sunk in the English Channel.  He served for the duration of WWII, and returned to marry his sweetheart.  Until he moved to Montana in 1965, he was a dairy farmer.  After he quit farming, he worked at the Bouman Post Yard (Lincoln, MT) for many years before moving to Charlo where he worked as the night foreman for the Western Bee factory (Polson, MT).  Upon retirement, he and his wife spent many years "snow-birding" in Arizona, South Carolina and California.  Before finally settling in Helena, he was an avid traveler of the United States visiting 48 of the 50 states. He was known by many and loved by all.  While working at Western Bee, he hired his youngest son, Paul, who continues to say that Dad was the best boss he's ever had.  He continually stood up for the underdog, and was always willing to help or counsel in some way. Paul tries to emulate Dad's style in his own managerial career, as we all attempt to live by the high standards he set.  It is rare to find a man so kind, open hearted, and honest who was always ready with a quirky joke, supportive words and a big hug. Even the most solid rock eventually gets worn down by the ravages of time.  He was our rock; always there, steadfast, unwavering in his support. We'll miss the twinkle in his eyes and his irrepressible mischievous grin.  Love is his legacy. A memorial service celebrating George’s life was held at 2 p.m. Tuesday, June 11, 2013 at the Helena Valley Baptist Church, 1315 Sierra Road East. Military honors followed the memorial service in the circle at Montana State Veterans Cemetery at Fort Harrison; George’s grandson, Joseph Fitzgerald, was a part of the military honor guard. Please visit

Community briefs for Nov. 21

Whitefish takes top honors for health care costs

A recent nationwide survey ranks Whitefish as one of the least expensive rural hospital service areas for Medicare costs, second only to Bonners Ferry, Idaho. North Valley Hospital's costs are 51 percent lower than the national average for Medicare costs, the survey states.

Former Polson man files complaint against library alleging ADA violation

Former Polson resident Michael Ross has lodged a civil complaint in U.S. District Court in Missoula, accusing the North Lake County Library and its director, Abbi Dooley, of violating the Americans with Disabilities Act.

The Latest: US Navy says 6 sailors hospitalized for virus

The Latest on the coronavirus pandemic. The new coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms for most people. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness or death.

Large nail salon opens in Evergreen

The walls of the salon are covered in flowers, purple fabric, fairy lights and more to bring in a whimsical feel.

Top Tier Sports youth baseball continues in Moses Lake

MOSES LAKE – The Moses Lake Top Tier Sports baseball teams have now entered the summer tournament season. Top Tier is partnering with the Moses Lake Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Department.

City of Whitefish sued for alleged rights violation

Beker Rengifo del Castillo, 33, filed a complaint against the City of Whitefish and its employees on Monday.

Lions best Devils

Win sets MLCA/CCS at third in conference

MOSES LAKE – Moses Lake Christian Academy/Christian Covenant School Lions (8-5) earned a significant 3-0 victory at home over the Wilson Creek Devils (5-10). This win now ties the Lions with Entiat for third in the Central Washington B conference as the team heads into the final three games of the season.

Odessa Aquifer Irrigators and CSRIA File Lawsuit against US Bureau of Reclamation

Odessa Aquifer Irrigators and CSRIA File Lawsuit against US Bureau of Reclamation

Vals stay alive; C-Falls' Kemppainen sets record

BILLINGS — The Bigfork Valkyries weren’t ready to go home, especially Braeden Gunlock.

College Football Picks: Big 12 and ACC kick off seasons

Under even normal circumstances, season-opening games can be deceiving. After an offseason that was anything but normal, who knows what to glean from a Game 1?

College Football Picks: Big 12 and ACC kick off seasons

Under even normal circumstances, season-opening games can be deceiving. After an offseason that was anything but normal, who knows what to glean from a Game 1?

Nick Saban: No. 1 ranking 'even more meaningless this year'

It's easier than ever for Alabama coach Nick Saban to dismiss a midseason No. 1 ranking.

Nick Saban: No. 1 ranking 'even more meaningless this year'

It's easier than ever for Alabama coach Nick Saban to dismiss a midseason No. 1 ranking.

Nick Saban: No. 1 ranking 'even more meaningless this year'

It's easier than ever for Alabama coach Nick Saban to dismiss a midseason No. 1 ranking.

College Football Picks: Big 12 and ACC kick off seasons

Under even normal circumstances, season-opening games can be deceiving. After an offseason that was anything but normal, who knows what to glean from a Game 1?

49ers complain about playing surface at MetLife Stadium

The San Francisco 49ers contacted the NFL on Monday about the conditions of the playing surface at MetLife Stadium after several players went down with injuries in a victory over the New York Jets.