San Antonio (August 22, 2006) – George Alva, an independent contractor driver at Yellow Cab, has been named “Driver of the Year” by the Taxicab, Limousine & Paratransit Association. The TLPA is the world’s largest trade association, representing the interests of taxicab fleets as well as airport shuttle, executive sedan, limousine, and non-emergency medical transportation companies. The association consists of more than 1,100 members operating over 100,000 vehicles. A panel of TLPA judges reviews each nominee’s driving record, passenger relations and recommendations from management before selecting the Driver of the Year. More than 150,000 drivers were eligible to be nominated for the award.

“We are proud that George has received this well-deserved and prestigious award,” said John Bouloubasis, president of Yellow Cab.  “He has been recognized locally many times for his outstanding service, safe driving and contributions to the San Antonio community.” Mr. Alva is popularly known in San Antonio as the driver of the Yellow Cab 1920s Model T. The vehicle is featured often in San Antonio parades and festivals, usually with celebrity passengers.  He says one of the highlights of his career occurred when he met movie stars Candice Bergen, Sir Michael Caine and Sandra Bullock while he and his taxi were filmed during the movie “Miss Congeniality.”  His excellent customer service skills have helped him build a loyal clientele. He is qualified to transport passengers for the Rape Crisis Center, the Battered Women’s Shelter and local adoption agencies. San Antonio City Council appointed Mr. Alva to serve on the city’s Transportation Advisory Board in May 2006.

Mr. Alva has worked in various capacities in the San Antonio taxi industry off and on throughout his life. He became an independent contractor driver at Yellow Checker Cab in 1998, shortly after he completed a 4-year tour of duty with the U.S. Navy. In his spare time, Alva enjoys playing guitar, acting in local Mystery Theatre productions and hosting cookouts with his family.

The TLPA will officially present the Driver of the Year award to Mr. Alva during the opening ceremonies of the TLPA 88th annual convention and trade show, which will be held in Las Vegas on October 9. As Driver of the Year, Mr. Alva will receive a cash honorarium, and complimentary convention admission, transportation and hospitality.

About Yellow Cab

Yellow Cab has been providing service to Greater San Antonio since 1999 and is San Antonio’s only computer dispatched taxi fleet.  Serving the San Antonio area with more than 500 cabs, Yellow Cab’s taxi service is available 24 hours-a-day, 365 days-a-year.  All cabs are equipped with digital cameras as well a Global Positioning System.  For more information, log onto www.YellowCabSanAntonio.com.

###