Good morning, Oxford.

Founding Editor Sean Scott thanked readers and community supporters as his time with the Free Press ended—he is set to move to Maine.

The paper will take a two-week break from print before new editor Aidan Cornue takes over.

Puzzle & Putt, Oxford’s first escape room and mini golf facility, opened on June 19 in a renovated building that once housed the RDI call center—family owners Jesse and Elizabeth Baker created the venue to offer a new, fun activity in town.

The business charges $35.99 per hour for escape rooms and $10 for nine-hole mini golf—plans include adding a golf simulator to draw locals and Miami University students.

On June 19 just before 2 p.m., Oxford Police said a man trespassed on two properties and dug a trench while building a dam in a nearby stream—this action caused water to back up and flood one yard.

The Miami University Board of Trustees approved an $850 million operating budget for fiscal year 2026 on June 27 and set a 3% salary improvement pool for non-bargaining employees—tuition increases for incoming students will be finalized by the Ohio General Assembly while current students keep their rates steady.

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.