That cut in the gas surcharge has enraged the city's cabbies to the point they've threatened a strike unless Mayor Daley enacts a proposed 16 percent fare hike, tentatively scheduled to go into effect next spring, by January 1, 2009. They've given the Mayor a two-week deadline. United Taxidrivers Community Council chairman Fayez Khozindar said, "We refuse to be subjected to this roller coaster. We are not beggars. We need a permanent fare increase — 16 percent on the meter. If the city will not treat its ambassadors decently, then we'll act ourselves and paralyze the city one day, two days or three days. We’ll do it when it’s successful for us. It will be a surprise for the city." Yeah, guys, strong arm Mayor Daley; we're sure he'll love that.



If the city's "ambassadors" don't treat its citizens and guests with respect, they and their desire for a fare hike can go to hell - sound good Mr. Khozindar? That means no more talking on the phone while driving, no more giving the patron a hard time when he tries to use a credit card, and no more cabs that smell like lower wacker.