Published: November 05, 2009 08:40 am      

Special moonbow envelopes going fast

By Becky Manley / Staff Writer

Collectors need to scurry if they hope to snatch one of the few remaining Cumberland Falls moonbow commemorative envelopes.

As of late Wednesday, only about 100 of the 250 envelopes issued remained for sale at the Cumberland Falls State Resort Park Gift Shop and at DuPont Lodge, according to Park Manager Lisa Davis.

The commemorative envelopes, which sell for $5 each, show an illustration of the lunar rainbow and a special cancellation by graphic designer Ralph Bergmann. Each envelope has a postage stamp that depicts a view of Cumberland Falls, Davis said.

The commemorative envelopes — which are cancelled and cannot be used to mail items — aim to celebrate the moonbow and the 85th anniversary of Kentucky State Parks, Davis said.

About four weeks ago, Davis said she was contacted by the Louisville United States Post Office about developing the commemorative envelope. The idea originated with an employee of that city’s post office who was impressed by the park’s unique lunar display, Davis said.

During a Tuesday ceremony attended by officials from the City of Corbin and the state, Corbin Post Office employees cancelled the envelopes. When the cancellation was complete, Davis said participants walked to the falls where the moonbow made a spectacular appearance in a “huge white arc,” Davis said.

“It was magnificent,” Davis said.

Following the ceremony, a long line formed at the park’s visitor’s center by those eager to buy the envelopes, Davis said.

Sales continued to be brisk at the park Wednesday, Davis said.

While proceeds from envelopes sold Tuesday went to the USPS, Davis said beginning Wednesday, all proceeds go to the park.

Davis said the commemorative envelopes can be a special keepsake to people.

“Cumberland Falls is very special to a number of people,” Davis said. “They have very fond and warm memories of the park.”