by Kristin Lee

Created on: July 14, 2009   Last Updated: July 15, 2009

On August 17, 1907, Pike Place Market emerged as a meeting place for local farmers and consumers who were fed up with the rising prices of produce. Today it draws in a wide array of tourists and locals alike for trinkets, fun, flowers and food staples like fresh fish. I remember my first visit there with my nephew we were fascinated by the fish counter. It was amazing watching the men throw and catch fish. It created a very memorable experience for us both. The history behind the fish throwing was even more interesting, and relatively recent. Though the fish counter had been part of the market since the early 1900's it wasn't very quiet and unassuming until 1965 when an employee of the market, John Yokoyama, purchased Pike Place Fish. John used his team and business consultants to help create the world famous image that they dreamed about. And it worked. They are world famous for their colorful display of culinary skills better known as fish throwing. And they are also known for having really delicious and fresh fish.

I have no love loss with PETA. I feel that they often take things way too far. And while their intentions are often spawned with good intentions they are laced with overkill. When I heard about PETA and their latest tirade against fish throwing at Pike Place Market all I could do was laugh out loud. PETA has finally gone way too far. If PETA wants to ban fish throwing, why not ban the production of sushi? Have you ever watched sushi made in a nice restaurant? They throw the fish around and make a production out of the creation. Both instances are culinary art, not abuse to animals. Have you any idea tha mount of skill that goes into not only throwing a huge fish but then catching it without dropping it? As a woman who grew up fishing I can tell you that fish are slippery! I've been known to drop them trying to hold them for a picture after catching a big salmon let alone if someone were to throw one at me.

Now before any animal lovers start telling me that I must hate animals to enjoy this culinary display let me add that I whole heartedly believe in the appropriate protections of animals. As an animal lover it pains my heart to see animal cruelty. I can't even watch those animal rescue shows on animal planet because I want to make who ever did that to those poor animals feel the same pain. But I honestly do not feel that throwing a dead fish over the counter so that it can be packaged for a customer that is going to eat said fish is cruel. It's an artful display of business prowess and culinary skill that has been common place in Pikes Place Market for over 50 years!

Taking the fish throwing out of Pikes Place Market would deduct from the vaule of the experience of the market and diminish the historical value of the market as well. Fish throwing has been going on for a very long time. I have to know why is it just now a problem? PETA needs to place their efforts in better suited venues where animals are actually being violated, not harassing men and women trying to earn a living while upholding tradition and a rich history.

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