Local News in Virginia

The Myricks Host Reception For S. African Family

CHESAPEAKE
Ambassador Bismarck Myrick Sr. and Mrs. Marie-Pierre Mbaye-Myrick opened their palatial home April 27 to host a dinner reception honoring their friends visiting from South Africa.

Supreme Court Judge Leona Theron from South Africa and her husband businessman Charles Sarjoo and their family members were welcomed by the Myricks and members of the Hampton Roads community in attendance. The family was in the United States to attend the college graduation in North Carolina of their daughter.

At age 33, Judge Theron became the first Black female judge in South Africa after an appointment by former president Nelson Mandela, making her the country’s youngest judge. Her husband is an astute businessman with investments in several enterprises in his country.

The traveling family members included a daughter, goddaughter and the parents of Judge Theron.

The outdoor setting provided for an entertaining evening on the Myrick’s lawn where tents had been set up to accommodate a catered dinner for approximately 75 guests.

The April 27th event corresponded with the South African observance of Freedom Day, a holiday marking the liberation of the country and its people from a long period of colonialism and White minority domination (apartheid).

Among local guests were Portsmouth public officials Judge Johnny Morrison, Cynthia Morrison, and Stephanie Morales. Also attending were a number of faculty and staff of Old Dominion University, where Ambassador Myrick teaches, to include the university’s Provost; as well as Norfolk State University’s Drs. William and Cassandra Newby-Alexander. Other attendees included Leah Stith, Lawrence Owes, Jennifer Douglas, Dr. Rod Taylor, Dr. Harold Marrioneaux, and Publisher Brenda H. Andrews.

Host Ambassador Bismarck Myrick Sr. explains South African Freedom Day being celebrated on April 27 as the visiting South African daughter showcases Freedom Day cake. Also shown, (at left) NJG Publisher Brenda H. Andrews and Mrs. Myrick