FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 28, 2014
MEDIA CONTACTS
Gwen Schuler, Media and Communications, gschuler@cityoftacoma.org, (253) 591-5160
Carrie McCausland, Media and Communications Office, cmccausland@cityoftacoma.org, (253) 591-2005
You Think You Know Tacoma?
Test your historic trivia knowledge on August 8
The City of Tacoma Landmarks Preservation Commission and Tacoma Historical Society are hosting a history of Tacoma free trivia night at The Forum, 815 Pacific Avenue, beginning at 6 p.m. on Friday, August 8. Participants can test their knowledge of local legends and lore or learn Tacoma facts and figures to impress friends and neighbors.
The event includes a Tacoma history pub quiz for a chance to win prizes as well as door prizes for those in period costumes. Former Tacoma Mayor, Dr. Bill Baarsma, will share Tacoma’s colorful past and The Forum, which is located in one of Tacoma’s historic buildings, will offer a special history-based food and beverage menu.
“Tacoma has a rich history and whether you’re new to the area, like me, or have been here for generations, greater understanding adds to your experience,” says Historic Preservation Coordinator, Lauren Hoogkamer. “Plus, Tacoma’s trivia is some pretty interesting stuff.”
Though the event may entertain and educate, it’s more than that too. It’s part of a conscious shift within the Office of Historic Preservation to engage a wider audience and cater to growing citizen interest in urban design and architecture, including the sense of place that’s maintained through historic preservation. Hoogkamer herself, who has a Columbia University masters degrees in historic preservation and urban planning and most recently served as a historic preservation consultant for the City of Bothell, is an example of that change. Part of her new position’s duties include working with community partners to offer more diverse and compelling events and programming that will communicate Tacoma’s unique heritage.
“The City of Tacoma has a strong and active preservation program,but there is more we can do to engage the community,” says Reuben McKnight,Tacoma’s Historic Preservation Officer. “Ultimately, for preservation to be successful, people need to be interested. We’re still going to be working to protect our historic resources, but we’re also going to be offering more experiences and opportunities to Tacoma residents. We’re excited to have Lauren aboard and look forward to big things.”
Those who can’t make it to the event can still enjoy Tacoma trivia on August 8 by following the City of Tacoma or Historic Preservation Office on twitter. For questions, contact Hoogkamer at (253) 591-5254 or lhoogkamer@cityoftacoma.org.
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