Editor's Note:

The following press statement arrived too late for Monday's printed Chesterton Tribune. Check the printed Tribune for continuing coverage of this issue as it develops.

Save the Dunes Council Position on Chellberg Farm

Chellberg Farm and the Bailly Homestead Complex have been an integral part of the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore since its was authorized by congress in 1966.Bailly Homestead is also National Historic Landmark.

Popular cultural and historic programs have taken place there, some for over 30 years.  These include the Maple Sugar Time Festival at the Farm in March; the Harvest Festival in September involving both the Farm and the Homestead Complex] [an outgrowth of partnerships with the Westchester Public Library and a host of volunteer groups including Friends of the Indiana Dunes]. and the Christmas Traditions [French and Swedish] in December.

Ending these educational programs [including the working farm and the animals] at both sites, which are very popular with the public and supported for decades by many volunteers must not happen.

We oppose any reduction or elimination of these popular educational events.

The Save the Dunes Council will work with partners to ensure that these important parts of the National Lakeshore experience will continue and flourish.

Approved by Save the Dunes Council Board of Directors-
April 30, 2009