​The West Liberty-Salem Athletic Hall of Fame Committee is proud to announce its 2025 Class of Inductees. This year’s class honors the accomplishments of two historic cross-country teams as well as two individuals who left a lasting impact on Tiger athletics and the WL-S community: Coach Ann Thornburg and Contributor John Roettger. ​

By winning state titles in 1976, 1977, 1978, and 1979, these teams exemplified grit, determination, and teamwork—achieving milestones that elevated WL-S cross country to statewide recognition. Their induction honors not only the championships and accolades they earned, including the school’s third and fourth consecutive state titles, but also the culture of hard work and perseverance they instilled in future generations of runners. ​​

​Memorial Health has unveiled plans for a new, state-of-the-art emergency department (ED) on its hospital campus, representing an estimated $56 million investment.
 
Chip Hubbs, President & CEO for Memorial Health, shares, “This new emergency department is a transformational project aimed at meeting the rapidly growing healthcare needs of the region. With population growth and emergency visits continuing to rise, the expansion will increase ED capacity, enhance patient experience, and support the next generation of patient care. Our ED has served its community well for nearly three decades, but the volume, complexity, and acuity of today’s patients — and tomorrow’s projected growth — make it clear: the time to expand is now.”

Ross was appointed CEO of Mary Rutan in 2021. He previously served as the organization’s chief operating officer from 2013 – 2021. He earned his J.D. from Vanderbilt University Law School and a bachelor’s degree in accountancy and finance from Miami University.
 
“It is truly an honor to be selected to serve on the Ohio Hospital Association Board of Trustees. I am proud to represent Mary Rutan Health and to give a voice to rural healthcare providers across Ohio. OHA serves institutions both large and small, and I look forward to doing my part to advance our industry and support the health and well-being of communities throughout our state.”
 
The OHA Board sets policy and strategic direction for matters affecting hospitals throughout Ohio. The board includes representatives from small and large hospitals, urban and rural hospitals, teaching facilities and independent facilities and health care systems.
 
About OHA
Established in 1915, OHA represents 252 hospitals and 15 health systems throughout Ohio that employ 375,000 Ohioans and contribute $102.9 billion to Ohio’s economy along with $5.58 billion in net community benefit. OHA is the nation’s first state hospital association and is recognized nationally for patient safety and health care quality initiatives and environmental sustainability programs. The association founded the OHA Institute for Health Innovation and is a co-founder of the Ohio Health Information Partnership. OHA website: www.ohiohospitals.org
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The guided tour will feature the stories of nine individuals from Champaign County who participated in the war, including a Medal of Honor recipient and two formerly enslaved men who enlisted after gaining their freedom. Attendees will also learn about the Civil War Monument at the heart of Maple Grove Cemetery and have a rare opportunity to step inside the historic mausoleum, which is typically closed to the public.

The event will be led by Civil War historian Jared Shank, who will share stories of soldiers from various Ohio and state infantries, bringing their sacrifices and experiences to life.
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Tour Details