Ken Burns and Dayton Duncan describe their love of the national parks

Thanks to the generosity of donors and friends, Washington's National Park Fund celebrated a highly successful spring benefit dinner on April 19, 2009.  Featuring a "sneak peak" at the latest documentary by PBS filmmakers Ken Burns and Dayton Duncan, The National Parks: America's Best Idea, guests were treated to a "love affair with our parks."

The evening opened with emcee Phil Ershler describing his vocation and avocation as a mountaineer and climbing guide.  Park Superintendents Randy King (Mount Rainier), Karen Gustin (Olympic), and Chip Jenkins (North Cascades) shared their visions for the parks in 2009 and beyond.  Following an encouraging message from Congressman Norm Dicks, D-WA, 6th District, the film preview was shown.  View all pictures here.

Special thanks to event sponsors KCTS 9 for arranging the appearance of Ken Burns and Dayton Duncan, Glacier Water Company/Tahoma® Water, Hogue Cellars, and Fish Brewing Company.

Mark your calendars now for the airing of The National Parks: America's Best Idea, beginning September 27, 2009, on your local PBS station.

Superintendents Chip Jenkins and Randy King enjoy the celebration