May 16, 2008 — In a ceremony that was picture-postcard perfect, the new 94-cent International Letter stamp was dedicated and unveiled Friday under the Trunk Bay Pavilion in the V.I. Natural Park.
The stamp features a photograph of Trunk Bay taken by photographer George H. H. Huey of Prescott, Ariz.
"Trunk Bay must be the most photographed beach in the U.S. Virgin Islands, if not the entire Caribbean," said Huey. "In a sense, the view from the road above the beach — from where this image was made — has become a cliché. But that vantage point still resonates with so many people, and I am no exception to that experience."
Gov. John deJongh Jr. commended the efforts and coordination across federal, territorial and local boundaries to bring the ceremony to Trunk Bay.
St. John Postmaster Tiffany Gumbs played down recent problems with mail delays in the Territory (See "Christensen Calls for Investigation of Mail Delays.")
"We do have issues, but we are very proud to issue this stamp. This stamp is about community, it is about helping your neighbor and preserving the natural beauty," Gumbs said.
"Its a beautiful day, in a beautiful place, to unveil a beautiful stamp," said Delegate Donna Christensen, who was instrumental in bringing the unveiling to Trunk Bay. The dedication included musical performances by students from the Julius E. Sprauve School, while the Junior ROTC color guard from Kean presented the colors.
"It is at a new price, but it is worth every penny," Christensen said, "It is a stamp that will travel across the world and carry with it the warm wishes of the people of the Virgin Islands."
Those interested in ordering the stamp can contact the St. John Postmaster at 340-779-4227.
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