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HISTORY
2007, August 18, Saturday
Pike Place Market (3/3)
Celebrating a century of survival and looking forward to a stronger future
Overseeing necessary changes like this is a group of commissioners that carefully considers historic, economical and social ramifications of each incremental change to the Market's use and appearance. It aims to keep Pike Place Market true to its commitment to quality and tradition, while at the same time surviving in the face of fierce external challenges. Currently, the competition from big box, volume-selling retail food stores and the rise of national chains selling high-end specialty products vex the Commission's members. And yet, the 100-year-old Market seems to be withstanding this onslaught .
Public support
Last year's Cheese Festival onslaught about 80,000 visitors over one weekend. During the two-day event, well over 15,000 pounds of cheese were sold. Exciting family events continue throughout the year, most of which are concentrated in the summer. June's Street Fest exuberantly celebrates with live instructional demonstrations given by renowned local chefs, music acts on a stage, arts and crafts events led by Market vendors, a "Strutt Your Mutt" dog parade, a Kid Zone for racing and so much more. No wonder more than 100,000 people show up for the weekend!
Local culture survives
Despite all the attention given Seattle over the past 30 years for the successful international corporate giants homegrown in its mild, moist climate, the city's identity is still firmly rooted in its agrarian and seafaring traditional culture. Pike Place Market gives evidence of the value that local producers and consumers alike place on direct farm-to-market fresh produce and seafood sold by the families that own the farms or boats. In a world of cookie-cutter shopping experiences, Pike Place Market provides an experience of regional authenticity in America's Pacific Northwest.
Vocabulary Focus
ramification (n) ---the possible result of a decision or action
vex (v) ---to cause someone to feel annoyance or trouble
onslaught (n) ---a very powerful attack
exuberantly (adv) ---in a very energetic manner
authenticity (n) ---the quality of being real or true
Specialized Terms
agrarian (adj) --- 农业的 related to the land, especially farms