LIQUID ASSETS: An outpouring of complaints from...

LIQUID ASSETS: An outpouring of complaints from the San Fernando Valley about sky-high DWP bills is having an effect. Prodded by Valley council members, the DWP has agreed to recommend that Mayor Riordan reconvene a fee-setting committee next month (B1). . . . Bills shot up to $700--and more--under a new rate system.

VALLEY ASIANS: A Times Poll shows that Asian-Americans, the fastest-growing segment of the U. S. population, largely regard themselves as better off than other minorities, and most non-Asians speak well of them, though stereotypes die hard (A1). . . . The Valley has a lower percentage of Asian-Americans than the rest of L. A. County, 7.9% to 10.4%, but it’s growing rapidly--more than double since 1980. . . . Heaviest concentration is in Granada Hills, more than 13%.

CLASS WAR: If your child dreads attending school, the possible reasons are many, educators say. Sometimes the difficulties are physical, emotional or social. “Sometimes the kid is fine, but the teacher is not,� said one. And asking the child to continue suffering through it may make the problem even worse. If a child’s dislike of a teacher affects learning, the parent should intervene. See special section Parenting, Page 3

THAT STANDS FOR . . . Those gimlet-eyed dudes with the skinny cases gathering at the Burbank Airport Hilton are there for the $50,000 prize money at the Western Open Billiards Championship (B1). They swear they’re a different breed than the stereotype popularized by “The Hustler,� they’re professionals who live on prize money instead of swindles in dangerous dives. . . . High hope: Pool in the Olympic Games.

COOL FOOD: Ice cream season has hit its peak. Where’s the best stuff? Food writer Max Jacobson canvassed the Valley area. His choices may surprise you . . . such as the humble 55-cent drum-shaped scoop at Thrifty Drug. Other end of the spectrum: 28% butterfat ice creams at Joachim Splichal’s Pinot in Studio City. Cost: $5 a serving. See Valley Life, Page 10