I agree with your points, Allen.

Having lived in East Dallas for only 15 years, I believe this kind of change is good.

It's not like they are wanting to build "the slums."

Not only has the plan been scaled back, but the new plan is actually quite pleasing. I see it as an opportunity for not only Casa Linda, but White Rock Lake.

I am sure those people who would live at the Emerald Isle would be people who love the lake and would be interested in improving White Rock Lake and East Dallas.

We are dealing with the same kind of change here in Lakewood at the corner of Lakewood Blvd and Abrams. The old Cafe Brazil, Lakewood Furniture Co., and The Belmont Garage have closed and now a bank is being built.

Instead of fighting the improvement, we worked with the bank and ended up in a win-win situation.

Not only are we getting rid of a graffiti building, we are going to have a bank with some small shops that looks and fits the neighborhood.

This is what happens when parties work together for the better of the entire neighborhood and not each others personal preferences.

[Ed Note: Yes, it is a shame that there seems to be so much fearmongering on this side of the lake. That's changing, however.]