Journey of a Century / One...

Journey of a Century / One Family’s Odyssey to Los Angeles : When Joseph Saltsman left his family in his home town of Belogorodka, Czar Nicholas II still ruled Russia. The year was 1913 and Joseph headed for America.

It would not be until this year that Joseph, at 102, would be reunited with his Russian family in his new home, Los Angeles. A seven-part series on the family that survived decades of famine, war and oppression begins today. B1

Tickled Pink: The latest furry critters to arrive at the Wildlife Waystation in Angeles National Forest are two Tickle Me Elmo dolls. The rare, red species were donated by a Calgary, Canada, woman who hoped they would bring the animal sanctuary some warm and fuzzy contributions. . . . The way station has put the much-sought-after giggling toys on auction to the highest bidder until 4 p.m. today. To get in the game, either call officials at (818) 899-5201 or e-mail them at webmaster@waystation.org

On the Rebound: Here’s a headline: “Sports columnist admits mistake.” The story: Paige Leech acknowledges that she underestimated the chances of Taft High School’s basketball team in her November preview of the season (C10). . . . Now that the team has gone 6-3, Leech concludes that the Toreadors are one of the top teams in the city. Coach Mark Drucker attributes the squad’s success to teamwork and consistent shooting.

Reindeer Games: It’s too late to pour coffee into Barbie’s head--the mugs at Captain Coconuts on Universal CityWalk are sold out--but you can still obtain a potato-pelting popgun for that special person on your list. . . . For a few more stops on the tour of weird Christmas stores and sites in the Valley--including the address of a family that has planted a steel, light-festooned dragon on its front lawn--visit Irene Garcia’s story on B5.