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