Since its formation in 1984, Casa Linda Estates Neighborhood Association (affectionately known as CLENA) has worked to build a new playground in Casa Linda Park. The seven-acre park site at Alta Mira and San Saba was donated to the City of Dallas by developer Carl Brown in 1937.
About $2,300 had been raised for the project when the Skyline-White Rock Lions Club heard about the effort, says club president Robert Morris. Robert knew Lions throughout Texas had built playgrounds in various cities, but none had been built in Dallas.
“We decided to issue our neighbors in Casa Linda Estates a $10,000 challenge,” Robert says. “If they would raise half of the money, we could match it.”
To meet the challenge, Casa Linda residents have been soliciting support from neighborhood professionals and businesses. CLENA plans a door-to-door neighborhood drive from April 27 to May 5.
In anticipation of reaching the goal, CLENA president John Cochran is planning a ParkFest May 5 from 2 to 2:20 p.m., with Northeast Deputy Police Chief John Chappelle invited as a special guest.
“Every $10 received turns to $20,” John says. Donations are tax deductible if made payable to Dallas Park Foundation for Casa Linda Park, c/o CLENA ParkFest, P.O. Box 180817, Dallas, 75218.
The Skyline-White Rock Lions club meets Tuesdays, and membership is open to those 18 and older. For more information, call Jerry Wolfe at 321-2613.
