Simon Benson, originally named Simen Bergersen Klæve, was a Norwegian-born American businessman and philanthropist who made significant contributions to the city of Portland, Oregon. After emigrating to the United States, he established a successful career in the lumber industry, which laid the foundation for his wealth and influence. Benson's entrepreneurial spirit and keen business acumen allowed him to thrive in the competitive landscape of the Pacific Northwest during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Beyond his business ventures, Benson was deeply committed to philanthropy, particularly in the realms of education and public welfare. He is perhaps best known for his generous donations to various institutions, including the establishment of the Benson Polytechnic High School in Portland, which aimed to provide vocational training and education for young people. His legacy is marked by his dedication to improving the community and enhancing the lives of its residents, making him a prominent figure in the history of Portland's development and a notable philanthropist of his time.
“The government insists that the many shall not be placed in danger for the few and that EVERYONE SHALL WEAR A MASK. Those who are not doing so are not showing their independence - they are showing their indifference for the lives of others”
“Morrison was acutely aware of the limitations of the country's constitutional power-sharing arrangements. For example, he was worried about the potential for massive civil disobedience against health orders, and he privately complained to Hunt that if he wanted to send in troops from the Australian Defence Force (ADF) to marshal compliance, the states could order their police forces to arrest the soldiers for breaking state laws.”
“A declaration under section 475 [of the Biosecurity Act would give] Hunt as Health minister exclusive and extraordinary powers. He, and only he, could personally make directives that overrode any other law and were not disallowable by parliament. He [would have] authority to direct any citizen in the country to do something, or not do something, to prevent spread of the disease. One of the only things he couldn't do would be to give directions to a state or territory government official. Morrison knew that if he asked the Governor-General to invoke section 475, he effectively would be handing Hunt control of the country.”