Good morning, Oxford.

Local pianist Bruce Murray has given free concerts at the Oxford Community Arts Center since 2016 and said his performances meet a local need for music—he is scheduled to perform at 6 p.m. on June 23 with a final show on July 7 featuring music inspired by Parisian salons.

Miami University's College of Education, Health and Society received a national A grade for reading from the National Council on Teacher Quality for its program to train teachers.

Faculty revised courses and added new ones to meet state standards and help future educators teach reading effectively.

Between June 9 and 15, Miami University reported that nearly 75 students from nine local high schools earned both high school diplomas and associate degrees while students also helped prepare new specimens for the museum display.

The university launched a student wellness podcast and hired Jessica Palatka as chief human resource officer effective Aug. 1—other reports focused on closing talent gaps and discussed education equity and Lafayette's historical role.

Oxford received a $136,800 grant from Interact for Health to support a housing stability initiative that funds a new TOPSS staff role and partners with a law firm to help tenants prevent evictions.

The program will last 18 months and Oxford will invest $30,000 of its own funds in the project.

Oxford Freedom Festival

10 a.m. — Oxford Community Park — $5 parking fee — Celebrate Independence Day with games, food, and a spectacular fireworks display.

Brave 5k

8 AM – 12 PM — Oxford Community Park — Fun for all ages — Participate in a 5K run/walk and a kids' fun run to promote community health.