BROKEN HIGHWAYS: We’re all delighted that the...

BROKEN HIGHWAYS: We’re all delighted that the Santa Monica Freeway reopened Monday night, way ahead of schedule. But how about our own still-ailing freeways in the San Fernando and Santa Clarita valleys? Is there some kind of favoritism being bestowed on roadways over the hill? No way, say Caltrans officials, who point out that some of the Valley freeway bridges are as tall as 85 feet, making them far more difficult to rebuild. (A20)

CURE: Some doctors can make big bucks by taking on big cases. But with health-care reform around the corner, it makes perfect sense these days for Valley physicians to form medical groups with a better chance of drawing more patients. . . . “To practice in the 1990s,” said one pediatrician, “you have to be willing to adapt.” See Valley Business, Page 10.

PLAYING IT SAFE: Speaking of adapting, it’s time for 20th Century in Woodland Hills to change its strategy as well. After all, the company still has an earthquake to pay for. . . . Facing $325 million in quake claims, 20th Century is expected to seek clients in Northern California and San Diego to spread its risk over a wider geographic area. See Valley Business, Page 3.