Oakdale Square 2011 Year in Review

As we close out 2011 and usher in a new year, there are many accomplishments we can look back on this year with a great sense of pride. The Oakdale Square Alliance (OSA) was formed in the Spring of 2010 with a goal of making the Square a vital part of the community. Neighbors, merchants, town personnel, elected officials, and the local police collaborate to achieve a common goal: growing a vibrant neighborhood together. We aim to preserve this historic Square, strengthen the economic vitality, and create a social and cultural hub for the community. 

Here are just a few of the highlights from a truly great year:

•  January, 2011 - Our first Golden Acorn Award is given to Ziad Greige, proprietor of Tedeschi Food Shop. Ziad was recognized for his many contributions to the OSA and the community. We also honored Gulcan Yilmaz with a posthumous award for the great work she accomplished for the neighborhood.

•  February, 2011 - We bring some love to the Square for Valentine’s Day. The day featured handcrafted Valentines made by children from the Oakdale Elementary School, special discounts from local merchants, and colorful balloons that lined the Square for a festive feel.

•  April, 2011 - We joined forces with the Dedham Library Innovation Team to host two events that inspired the community to come together and read To Kill a Mockingbird. Adults were treated to a literary discussion and tea party, while the children enjoyed a Teddy Bear Tea to discuss children’s books. The events helped rally the community around our library system, and promote reading as a way to learn important values.  

•  June, 2011 - Many OSA members come together for a Spring cleanup of the Square, and enjoy a barbecue on the grounds of the Church of the Good Shepherd. 

•  August, 2011 - We welcome a new business to the Square, Advanced Oakdale Dental. This innovative dental practice is founded by Dr. Cassandra Nguyen and Dr. Tuan Do. 

• August, 2011 - The OSA, along with other civic groups in town, support Police Chief d’Entremont and the Dedham police as they host a series of events for National Night Out 2011. This marks the first time that Dedham law enforcement and citizens participate in this national program that aims to make neighborhoods safer by creating awareness about public safety issues.  

• October, 2011 - As part of Dedham’s 375th celebration, many OSA members participate in the Fall cleanup of Oakdale Square as a day of service for the town.

• December, 2011 - We host our 2nd annual ‘Light the Night’ celebration and decorate the common so neighbors have a special place to share the holidays together. Our first fundraising effort for this special night raises nearly $1,000 in generous contributions from Oakdale Square merchants and neighbors to decorate the Square with lights and evergreens.

Thank you to all the amazing people who helped with these significant accomplishments by volunteering their time, energy and talent. The success we were able to achieve this year is a testament to the wonderful, civic-minded, caring people who are committed to making a difference in their community. This sense of community is at the heart of what makes Dedham so special. Cheers!

For more information about Oakdale Square Alliance, please visit our Facebook page. We meet the second Tuesday of each month at the Church of the Good Shepherd at 7:00 p.m. Please join us if you’d like to help make a difference in 2012.