The fire swiftly consumed nearly 2 square miles in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood in western Los Angeles, sending up a dramatic plume of smoke.

It was a time for giving last month at St George Hospital's paediatrics unit, with staff delighted to receive two carloads of gifts delivered by Connells Point Public School captains Alfie and Sophie.

This week's column from Tom Carpenter.

After hearing about BENCHS’ temporary closure in the fall, Dede Barton said she felt a strong draw to the nonprofit.