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The Lithuanian World Center will soon be enriched by the presence of two works of art: “The Shepard” and “The Sower,” plaster carvings by distinguished artist Vytautas Kazimieras Jonynas. These bas-reliefs once lived in East Hampton, NY, in the summer residence of philanthropists Juozas and Aleksandra Kazickas. A conversation began a few years ago about finding a fitting permanent home for these pieces. It brings us great joy that the artworks found a home at the Lithuanian World Center. The art is scheduled to be installed in the autumn of this year.

On May 13th, John Kazickas met with the Consul General of the Republic of Lithuania in Chicago Sigrida Muleviciene, and 15 representatives of the Lithuanian community in the Chicago area who collaborated with KFF in organizing educational and cultural events of 5/13-14/2022 in memory of Dr. and Mrs. Kazickas.

On May 14th, KFF President Jurate Kazickas and KFF treasurer John Kazickas visited the Lithuanian World Center to get acquainted with the work of some of the 40 organizations that operate in the LWC. They met with LWC President Linas Gylys, Executive Director Elena Reklaitis, and Fundraising Coordinator Diana Aleknaite. The history of LWC, activities, and most recent challenges was discussed.

Later they stopped by the Mission of the Blessed Jurgis Matulaitis and listened to the presentation about the parish, events, community, and the youth.

Maironis Heritage school has more than 600 students. The school holds numerous End of the school year events. The Kazickas participated in the End of the School year event for the Sixth graders and watched them sing and dance. The Kazickas presented prizes to three 9th and 10th graders who won the essay contest “If I were rich” at the event. During the school year, the 9th and 10th graders got to read Odyssey of Hope and think of ideas on how to help Lithuania and its diaspora. KFF received 30 essays to pick from.

In the Lithuanian Art gallery Siela/the Soul, there was an exhibit of mosaics and pottery, graphics, and glasswork by the art school students who had learned about V. K. Jonynas’s art. Jurate and John Kazickas presented a Letter of Gratitude and a KFF donation to the museum and school director Asta Zimkus.

In the reading area of the gallery, the Kazickas met with representatives of the Book Club who had read Odyssey of Hope and had a Book discussion on Zoom with Jurate on April 7th. During the in-person visit, Jurate was interested in the book club members’ opinions about the importance of the LWC in their lives and the reasons for their emigration.

At 5 pm,  “God, protect our Homeland!” – a performance by Dainava – Lithuanian Chorale and Vyturys - Matulaitis Mission Children’s Choir took place in honor of the Kazickas Family. Excerpts from Odyssey of Hope were read by Audre Budryte Nakiene. The church was packed.

After the concert, guests gathered at the Banys hall to look at the exhibit about Dr. and Mrs. Kazickas life and to read excerpts from Dr. Kazickas love letters and Mrs. Kazickas diary. Jurate and John Kazickas met with members of the Lithuanian community.

During their visit, the Kazickas had a tour around the LWC and brought home traditional tree cake made in the LWC kitchen by the Grand Dukes restaurant bakers.

KFF expresses gratitude to Elena Reklaitis and Diana Aleknaite, as well as Dalia Bilaisis for their hard work in preparation for the events and the Kazickas' visit. Jurate and John Kazickas were also accompanied by NYC office director Neila Baumiliene and Vilnius office director Agne Vertelkaite.

Pictures by Nijolė Shuberg

Video by Arvydas Reneckis: