The COVID-19 pandemic, a once-in-a-century crisis, has touched everyone in some way.
Spread of the highly infectious coronavirus prompted most governments to enact unprecedented shutdowns of public facilities and businesses, including here in Cumberland County. Communicating through video became a way of life. Seeing our friends, relatives, coworkers and neighbors in masks became common sights.
It has been a year since the World Health Organization designated COVID-19 as a pandemic.
The Fayetteville Observer over the next few days will take a look back over these difficult 12 months. We will view events through the eyes of several people in Cumberland County and the Sandhills region.
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Pioneer, Bridge Builder and Statesman A Conversation with Ambassador Edward J. Perkins
Ambassador Edward J. Perkins is the 2020 Recipient of the Award for Lifetime Contributions to American Diplomacy.
NOTE: Ambassador Edward J. Perkins died on Nov. 7, days before this interview about his life and work went to press. He was 92. We extend our condolences to the family and are particularly grateful to his daughters, Katherine and Sarah, for helping to make this well-deserved tribute possible.
President Ronald Reagan talks with Ambassador to South Africa Edward J. Perkins at the White House in May 1987. Seated at right are Secretary of State George Shultz, U.S. National Security Adviser Frank Carlucci and, at far right, National Security Council Senior Director for Africa Hank Cohen.