Taxis

Even here, in the capital of true believers in one thing or another, Paul Gillespie stands out. The veteran cabby and former president of the San Francisco Taxicab Commission is one of the reasons this city's taxi fleet is vying to be the most environmentally correct in the country. After years of advocating for hybrid taxis, Gillespie, who says he has "the carbon footprint of an Ethiopian child," now has proof that they are green in more ways than one.

Police have issued 71 citations, and two vehicles have been impounded after a surprise inspection of taxis, limos and vans at Los Angeles International Airport. Officials said airport police and other agencies checked 308 door-to-door shuttles and long-distance vans for safety violations, operating permits and driver's licenses Wednesday morning. Law enforcement agents checked braking systems, seat belts, headlights and other safety systems. Nine drivers were cited for serious mechanical problems, improper insurance, driving without the right kind of license and not having valid Public Utilities Commission permits.