What began as a Mother’s Day brunch became something deeper for the guests gathered Sunday at Villa Russo in Queens — part celebration, part remembrance and part public tribute to the women who anchor families and communities.
Hosted by Baldwin-based Nassau Chapter No. 718 of the Order of the Eastern Star, the chapter’s “Mother’s Day Legacy Brunch” brought together about 30 guests for an intimate afternoon centered on honoring motherhood, sisterhood and healing.
Unlike larger social events, organizers intentionally kept attendance small to create what they described as a more personal atmosphere. Guests took part in a crowning ceremony; tribute presentations and a “Legacy of Love” memory-table experience designed for those grieving loved ones on Mother’s Day.
The memory-table room invited attendees to light candles, leave handwritten notes and reflect privately. Organizers said the space became one of the event’s most emotional moments.
One guest, Joanne Linning, said she initially did not plan to attend any Mother’s Day events this year, but was moved by the event’s focus on remembrance. According to a release sent to the Herald, during the ceremony, Linning placed a crown on herself and declared, “I’m worthy of my own crown.”
The afternoon also featured a public crowning ceremony honoring mothers and women recognized for their support of family and community. Among those honored was Lakisha Jacobs, principal of P.S. 37Q The Cynthia Jenkins School, who received crowns from her husband, daughter and a close friend.
“She taught me to fly, but remains my softest place to land,” her daughter said during the tribute according to the release.
Other tributes included Chris Califf crowning his mother, Lillian Califf, with the words “To the Queen,” while Kenya Davis surprised her mother, Vivienne Davis, with an eight-day trip to Bali during her presentation.
The event also included music by DJ Chris Run and Trombone Lav, raffles and personalized “Certificates of Love” featuring messages such as “Motherhood Looks Beautiful On You” and “Forever Grateful For You.”
Organizers said the brunch was designed to acknowledge the many emotions tied to Mother’s Day while creating space for celebration, reflection and connection.
