By James Mayer, The Oregonian, Portland, Ore. Dec. 11--Oregon's two senators led dignitaries upstairs from the train to the Tigard transit center to break ground for Washington County's commuter rail project.

By MELISSA HECKSCHER * RAVE! ONE IN AN OCCASIONAL SERIES ON THE BEST OF THE SOUTH BAYRedondo Beach pier and marina 181 N. Harbor Drive, Redondo Beach; the pier is where Torrance Boulevard hits the ocean. Time commitment: 2-5 hours. Best for ages: 3 and up.