I never thought I’d be moved by an OMSI exhibit. That place is mostly a kids’ playground disguised as a museum, not that I didn’t love places like that when I was a kid. But the latest OMSI exhibit, “Orcas: Our Shared Future,” was not only engaging with interactive displays but also beautifully curated with life-size replicas, fossilized remains, and First Nations artwork. It was also important.
I’m constantly hearing how smart killer whales are, but I always assumed it was one of those facts none of us look into (like we only use 10% of our brains, or that one about swallowing gum.) The truth is, killer whales are actually as intelligent as the average 16-year-old, minus the hormones. They are also very social creatures; like elephants, they mourn the loss of a member of their pod. Also like elephants, they tend to work under a matrilineal system where the eldest females lead the group. The new OMSO exhibit covers the atrocities they are facing in the aquarium industry. Anyone who’s seen “Blackfish” (2013) knows what I’m talking about. Side note, as of 2023, Sea World still has Orcas in some of their parks, although they claim they are phasing them out.
I’m not sure what brought me to OMSI that day. I was having lunch at Mt. Hood Brewing Co. Tilikum Station, which I highly recommend. This place is a hidden gem. They’re right by the Max station on the east side of the Tilikum Crossing Bridge. It’s a charming restaurant, half of it is a decommissioned train. You can order at the counter in the main building and be served in the dining car. It’s a nice people-watching spot with lots of joggers and cyclists. The food is pretty good, mostly pizza and beer. The prices are fair, and it’s a very family-friendly place with OMSI around the corner. Also, there’s the whole novelty of eating in a train. After lunch, I had some time to kill, and it was either OMSI or the Oregon Rail Heritage Center. OMSI sounded like a much funner time, and it was, despite all the screaming kids.
It’s been years since I’ve been to OMSI. Back when I used to go, it was mostly to get stoned and watch a laser show in the planetarium. I’m glad I went. It was informative but also captivating. Go and show your support for the Orcas. Bring your kids and start educating them young about respecting our oceans and its life.
