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Lucy Muhlfeld Kazickas, a mother of four and daughter in law of Alexandra and Joseph Kazickas founded CMEE because she was concerned about the lack of educational opportunities for young children and families in the community. Inspired by her children’s enthusiasm she began working on the museum with seven other mothers in 1998. "The eight of us would literally sit around the kitchen table, with our kids running around...it was a true labor of love," shared Lucy.

After trial and error, CMEE opened its permanent home in Bridgehampton in 2005 and has been a growing success ever since! With it’s mission to enrich the lives of children and families and strengthen the East End community by promoting learning through play, the CMEE serves over 50,000 visitors a year presenting programs and exhibits to the public. CMEE also serves as a community resource, collaborating with numerous social service, arts, and cultural organizations to help address issues that affect families in the East End. Liz Bard, museum's director of education, shared Lucy's story, an idea that turned into a favorite place for thousands of children, with Alexandra Kazickas Lithuanian School's children and parents. Lithuanian national anthem got attention of some young visitors and one pint size onlooker even joined in. Children scattered around climbing, running, exploring and sharing their summer adventures, while teachers and parents chatted at the museum garden.

After a fun visit at CMEE some of school's families went to the cemetery, the final resting place of Alexandra, Joseph and their son Alexander Kazickas. Children said their thank yous for school, for their Lithuanian friends and teachers, lit a candle and placed flowers on the tombstones, while parents and teachers payed their respects with a prayer.

Everyone is excited to start a new school year. First day of classes is September 14th.

Photos: Jolanta Vilcinskiene