Fuel prices squeeze cities: Safety patrols, school bus routes, even mowing services are cut as governments struggle with budgets. By Nicholas Riccardi

Hospital mistakes go public: Hundreds of patients are being harmed in preventable incidents, filings required by a new state law show. By Jordan Rau

COLUMN ONE: Kicking aside a social taboo: Women in soccer are frowned upon in Guatemala. But here, three hardworking sisters find freedom on the field. By Molly Hennessy-Fiske

Mugabe's foes brace for fallout: As Zimbabwe's leader is inaugurated, analysts say his opponents are in danger. Observers reject the election. From a Times Staff Writer

Plot twist in union talks: stars vs. stars: SAG urges members to vote down a rival group's contract. By Richard Verrier

CAMPAIGN 'O8: Long and short of VP lists: What strategists say Obama and McCain are looking for. By Doyle McManus

Inside Today's Times

Drivers, hold all calls please: Cellphone use, even hands-free, is too big a distraction, research shows.

Earvin Johnson has Magic touch: The former Laker has built a business empire by investing in long-ignored urban areas.

Spain reigns at Euro 2008 soccer final