Exploding Whale Anniversary
It was 51 years ago today when Florence was immortalized across the land. Newcomers to the area might not know the significance of this day but it only takes a moment to peruse social media or pick up a newspaper to see photos or to read the story of the exploding whale. The City of Florence even commemorated the day by naming a city park after the event. Portland’s KATU sent reporter Paul Linnman to record the event.
“it had a stinking whale of a problem, what to do with one 45 foot 8 ton whale dead on arrival on the beach near Florence.”
Engineers from the Oregon State Highway Division prepped the site with nearly 1000 pounds of dynamite as on lookers were moved back. When it was detonated whale blubber was sent flying everywhere and even destroyed a parked car nearly half a mile away. Needless to say there will not likely be a repeat of such an event.
Vaccination Clinic
The vaccination clinic at the Florence events Center will wrap up its weeklong event sunday. Residents can still get a first or second round shot or a booster shot through 6pm today or from 11-6 tomorrow and Sunday. The clinic, organized by the Oregon Health Authority has vaccines for ages 12 and up. Parental approval is required for ages 12-14. Masking is required and walk-ups are welcome. It is a drive through event. individuals may also obtain a COVID-19 test.
City Council
The City of Florence has a scheduled meeting for Monday, November 15th, details and agenda on the meeting have not yet been released, but the meeting is planned for 5:30 through the city’s gotowebinar platform.
COVID-19
The Oregon Health Authority did not provide an update on Veteran’s day. The OHA offices were closed in observance of the holiday.
Flood Watch
The area remains in a flood watch through tomorrow morning with the potential of flooding in low lying areas. Yesterday there were some delays on 126 near the tunnel and there were some areas along highway 36 between Swisshome and Deadwood that experienced debris in the road. Watch for slides and debris while driving and do not cross flooded roadways.
