March 7, 1961: The DWP magazine reports on a broken water main at Ventura Boulevard and Coldwater Canyon that spouted 100,000 gallons of water per minute. It took a crew of 12 working in pairs 2 1/2 hours to close about 25 valves and isolate the broken section and four more hours to drain the residue.

"If anyone wonders why it took so long — I did — the main line valves require 550 turns for full closure. Otherwise there would be serious damage from water 'hammer' caused by the pressure," Matt Weinstock says.

CONFIDENTIAL TO LORENA:     Take his temperature. If it's normal — marry him.