PUBLICATION: Associated Press
DATE: March 17, 2000
SECTION: State And Regional
DATELINE: Fort Knox, Kentucky
ACTIVISTS, INDIVIDUALS, AND GROUPS MENTIONED: Leslie Barras, Sierra Club
The Associated Press reports that a new military training ground planned for Fort Knox has many environmentalists concerned over the negative impact such a facility will have on the environment. The Army has stated that it will conduct an environmental impact study to assess the situation.
The article reports that the Army plans to build an urban-warfare center there. They are planning to clearcut 2,000 acres of forest. The Sierra Club's Leslie Barras is concerned about wildlife being displaced by the logging operations, as well as significant generation of water, air, and noise pollution. In particular, an area frequented by rare Indiana bats in the summer, and a Great Blue Heron nesting colony will be disrupted. The heron nesting colony is particularly important because it is the only one known to exist in the Salt River watershed. Additional noise will be created during the logging and training center construction process, but also on an ongoing basis from the military operations that will be conducted at the site.
The article quoted Barras as saying, "The devastation to plants and animals will be breathtaking. There will also be a toll on people, with noise and vibration."
According to the article, the Army will be informing the public in the coming months about the details of the project. They will attempt to alleviate environmental concerns and will discuss the operations of the new urban-warfare training center, which will be officially dedicated on April 20. The training center will include a re-created urban downtown area, where the Army's troops can practice city street fighting as well as effectively ending hostage situations. Trees will need to be removed nearby so that an aircraft landing strip can be built for future use, after approval by the Federal Aviation Administration and Louisville International Airport. Colonel Philip Jones, the director of base operations support, stated that actual use of the airstrip would probably be years away.
The article states that the Army announced last May that they would be removing 2,000 acres of timber. The have now modified that number to 1,076 acres of selected ridges.
The article goes on to say that the second part of the Army's project will "expand the Wilcox tank-practice range from 500 acres to 1,500 acres in a valley along the northwestern side of the Salt River." This would involve removing about 500 acres of a sycamore, gum, and alder hardwood forest, and destroying another 500 acres of shrubs, grassland, and wetland. The army would keep most of the timber profits, although a portion would be allocated to Bullitt County.
According to the article, the Army's previous opinion had been that neither project would have a detrimental environmental impact. However, they have now agreed to go ahead with the full-impact environmental study as a result of meetings with representatives of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the EPA, and the Army Corps of Engineers.
PUBLICATION: Aberdeen Press and Journal
DATE: March 17, 2000
SECTION: Business, Pg.3
DATELINE: Aberdeen, Scotland
The Aberdeen Press and Journal in Scotland reports that a restaurant owner has asked the Stonehaven council to approve his request to add apartments upstairs from his restaurant. The council has been hesitant to grant approval because of noise concerns. The restaurant owner says, however, that only he and his family will be occupying the apartments and will be unaffected by the noise from their own restaurant or surrounding areas.
According to the article, the owner, Shofiq Hoque, has assured the council that he and his family will not lodge noise complaints against other neighborhood shops, clubs, or bars after they move into the new apartments. Moreen Corley of the planning department will meet with the Kincardine and Mearns area committees next week to discuss the issue. The council will probably request that the apartments be sufficiently soundproofed.
PUBLICATION: Business Wire
DATE: March 17, 2000
DATELINE: Stamford, Connecticut
The Business Wire published the following press statement released by NCT Group, Inc. The press release is re-printed here in its entirety:
Communications Headset Manufacturer Led by Founder of Plantronics, Inc. NCT Group, Inc. (OTCBB: NCTI) today announced that its subsidiary NCT Hearing Products, Inc. ("NCT Hearing") has completed negotiations to acquire 60% of the common stock of Pro Tech Communications, Inc. ("Pro Tech") (OTCBB: PCTU) in exchange for granting to Pro Tech rights to NCTI technologies, including its NoiseBuster(R) active noise reduction and ClearSpeech(R) noise and echo cancellation algorithms, for use in lightweight cellular, multimedia and telephony headsets.
This acquisition is subject to the approval of definitive agreements and the approval of Pro Tech shareholders.
NCT Hearing has arranged for Pro Tech a minimum $3.0 million of working capital financing for expansion of Pro Tech's existing product lines and creation of new products.
Pro Tech currently sells high quality, lightweight headsets to a number of high profile users such as the National Aeronautical Space Administration (NASA) space program, McDonald's Corporation and the Boeing Company. Keith Larkin, who founded Plantronics (NYSE: PLT) and ACS Wireless (recently acquired by GN Netcom), is the founder of Pro Tech. Plantronics and GN Netcom are the world's leading telephone headset companies. For more information, refer to the Company's World Wide Web site at http://www.protechcom.com
NCT Group, Inc. has extensive expertise in the area of headsets and is the creator of many award-winning, high-performance active noise reduction headset lines for a variety of consumer, commercial and industrial applications. The Company specializes in the utilization of sound and signal waves to reduce noise, improve signal-to- noise ratio and enhance sound quality. For more information, refer to the Company's World Wide Web site at http://www.nct-active.com.
Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements Certain information contained in this press release are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Act of 1995 (the "Act"), which became law in December 1995. In order to obtain the benefits of the "safe harbor" provisions of the Act for any such forward-looking statements, the Company wishes to caution investors and prospective investors about significant factors, which among others, have in some cases affected the Company's actual results and are in the future likely to affect the Company's actual results and cause them to differ materially from those expressed in any such forward-looking statements. Investors and prospective investors should read this press release in conjunction with the Company's most recent Form 10-K and Forms 10-Q.
CONTACT: NCT Group Inc., Stamford Joanna Lipper, 203/961-0500 ext. 3506 Fax: 203/348-4106 jlipper@nct-active.com
URL: http://www.businesswire.com
PUBLICATION: Calgary Sun
DATE: March 17, 2000
SECTION: News, Pg. A1, Car Of The Week
BYLINE: Harry Pegg
DATELINE: Calgary, Alberta, Canada
The Calgary Sun reports that auto reviewer Harry Pegg is enamored of the 2000 model of the Nissan Altima. He particularly likes its quiet ride.
Pegg states in the article that Nissan has put more than 20 refinements into the vehicle to makes its ride quiet and smooth. The only noise that he detects is a bit of noise around the mirrors from the wind.
According to the article, Pegg is very impressed with the car and would recommend it for purchase.
PUBLICATION: Courier-Journal
DATE: March 17, 2000
SECTION: News Pg.01a
BYLINE: James Bruggers
DATELINE: Fort Knox, Kentucky
ACTIVISTS, INDIVIDUALS, AND GROUPS MENTIONED: Leslie Barras, Sierra Club; Kennneth Rigdon, Bullitt County Judge-Executive
The Courier-Journal of Louisville, Kentucky reports that residents in the area of Fort Knox have noise and environmental concerns over an urban-warfare training facility that will be built by the Army. The project will involve much logging and disruption of wildlife habitat. The Army has agreed to conduct an environmental study. [Editor's Note: This story has already been addressed in another article. We are reporting here only on details that were not in the previous article.]
The article reports that Bullitt County Judge-Executive Kenneth Rigdon opposes the project, and states that residents near Fort Knox have more concerns over noise that will be generated by the new facility than by the logging itself.
The article quotes Rigdon as being pleased with the Army's agreements to discuss the project. He said, "We pretty well know we are not going to stop the project. But they have been willing to work with us to cut down on some of the noise. That's a positive step."
The article reports that The Sierra Club is checking to see that Fort Knox complies with the National Environmental Policy Act. Sierra Club representative Leslie Barras would rather see the Army use areas of the base that are already developed for the new training center, rather than forested areas. However, the area that the Army plans to log is not first growth forest. The area had been cleared for farming almost 200 years ago, and has grown back since into a forested area.
The article attributes Fort Knox environmental chief Al Freeland with saying that the Army will not cut any growth near riverbanks or around sinkholes. In addition, even though the Army will be destroying wetlands to complete this project, they intend to compensate by restoring other wetlands in the area. He added that the impact study will address the three endangered species that currently reside within the base: gray bats, Indiana bats, and bald eagles.
The article also reports that the Army will not log in the spring and summer when bats are in the trees. Since 1992, the military has been more responsive to environmental concerns as a result of a law that was passed that directs the military to follow the same toxic-waste rules as the private sector.
Finally, the article states that the project will involve expanding a tank-practice range along the Salt River in the Wilcox Valley.
PUBLICATION: Daily Oklahoman
DATE: March 17, 2000
SECTION: The Norman Oklahoman; Pg. 1
BYLINE: Wayne Singleterry
DATELINE: Norman, Oklahoma
ACTIVISTS, INDIVIDUALS, AND GROUPS MENTIONED: George Eyler
The Daily Oklahoman reports that the Norman City Council has agreed to change the city noise ordinance so that it will be enforceable twenty-four hours a day.
The article states that the amendment will go into effect in thirty days. After that, "it will be illegal to operate a radio, television, phonograph or musical instrument loud enough to be plainly heard more than 50 feet from the source if that device is in a vehicle or boat or on public property." And now the ordinance can be enforced day or night. Police may fine violators between $50 and $500, or send them to jail for up to 60 days.
The article reports that City Manager Jeff Raley has indicated that the city will hire its own noise control officer, and will procure noise detection equipment.
But the article goes on to say that Overton Drive resident George Eyler is not sure that the city will enforce the amended ordinance. He and other residents have long complained about loud music from passing automobiles and also from boomboxes. They wholeheartedly endorse full enforcement of the ordinance by city authorities.
PUBLICATION: Los Angeles Times
DATE: March 17, 2000
SECTION: Metro; Part B; Page 1; Zones Desk
BYLINE: Andrew Blankstein
DATELINE: Burbank, California
ACTIVISTS, INDIVIDUALS, AND GROUPS MENTIONED: Restore Our Airport Rights (ROAR)
The Los Angeles Times reports that a recent initiative concerning the construction of a $300 million terminal at Burbank Airport was disqualified from the ballot on Wednesday by City Clerk Judie Sarquiz. The petition was signed by 7,400 voters, but its two most important proponents, former City Councilman Ted McConkey and Howard Rothenbach, neglected to add their signatures to the petition, which legally disqualified the initiative.
The article states that the issue is now being decided by the Burbank City Council, who will decide whether or not to bring it up for a public vote nonetheless. It could either be by special election or at the regular municipal elections in February. The signatures for the petition were gathered by the group Restore Our Airport Rights (ROAR).
According to the article, the petition would have insisted that the issue be decided by public vote. The initiative would have required a public vote on any terminal construction over 200,000 feet. The new terminal that is planned will be 330,000 square feet. The initiative also would have demanded a flight curfew and a limit to the number of flights allowed at the airport.
The article quotes Chris Leathers, spokeswoman for the Air Transportation Association, as saying, "We are willing to sit down and discuss the issues with Burbank in good faith. But we cannot negotiate away issues like a mandatory curfew, and any effort to place arbitrary limits on capacity and future growth at the airport. That's clearly what this initiative is trying to do."
According to the article, the Burbank-Glendale-Pasadena Airport Authority has decided not to comment on the initiative, stating that politics is not their business.
The article reports that the reasons for needing a new terminal at the airport are many. First, FAA standards call for terminals to be at least 740 feet from a runway center; Burbank's present terminal is only 313 feet away. The FAA has recommended to the airport for the last twenty years that it move the terminal. In addition, a new, larger terminal will allow the airport to increase its number of gates and its capacity.
But the article goes on to say that residents have voiced concerns over this new terminal, which will no doubt bring more air traffic and more noise to the area. Burbank City officials agreed, so plans to construct the new terminal have been put on hold for many years. Finally, in August 1999, an agreement on a new terminal was reached between the city of Burbank and the airport. The deal included a curfew between 11:00 P.M. and 6:00 A.M., as well as an arrangement which would funnel $1.5 million from airport passenger fees to pay the city for the amount it would lose in property taxes. In addition, there would no longer be any easterly takeoffs allowed. However, the deal did not alleviate concerns by residents, airlines, Los Angeles politicians, or even the FAA.
PUBLICATION: Los Angeles Times
DATE: March 17, 2000
SECTION: Metro; Part B; Page 1; Zones Desk
BYLINE: Zanto Peabody
DATELINE: Sun Valley, California
The Los Angeles Times reports that the Federal Aviation Administration and the Burbank-Glendale-Pasadena Airport Authority have undertaken an ambitious home soundproofing program that for the first time extends into the city limits of Los Angeles. The Salazar family have become the first homeowners outside the city of Burbank to receive soundproofing.
The article reports that Glenwood and St. Patrick's elementary schools in Sun Valley have also been soundproofed.
According to the article, the Salazar's were surprised at the level of airport noise when they moved to their Sun Valley home. Lorenzo Salazar stated, "We had heard airplanes in Hollywood, but not like this. Not all day in the daytime. Not so close."
The article states that the airport plans to insulate 3,100 homes in the next 15 years. The project will cost $120 million -- $40,000 per home - and the FAA will pay for 80% of the work.
According to the article, the airport's "noise corridor" map identifies neighborhoods that have noise readings of over 65 decibels (the federal and state limit.) Airport spokesman Victor Gill stated that the airport would soundproof those areas with the highest decibel readings first. Soundproofing in the Salazar home consisted of the installation of thirteen double-paned windows, new doors and roof insulation, in addition to a new air conditioning system that will allow the family to keep their windows and doors closed so that the soundproofing can work.
According to the article, homeowners who agree to let the airport soundproof their homes must also sign a document stating that they will not sue the airport for excessive noise at any future time. At this point in time, 850 homeowners have signed up for the soundproofing program. The airport will be able to insulate 259 homes with the current $12 million that they have received from the FAA. Single-family residences that are owner occupied will be soundproofed first, followed by rental houses, and then apartments.
The article lists the following Burbank-Glendale-Pasadena Airport Authority phone number for residents who have questions about the insulation program: (818) 840-8840.
PUBLICATION: Newsday
DATE: March 17, 2000
SECTION: Real Estate; Page C03
BYLINE: Washington Post
DATELINE: McLean, Virginia
Newsday reports that home columnist Al Ubell is concerned with the noise that tenants experience living in apartment buildings. Ubell is also a home inspector who discusses both interior and exterior noise and ways to combat it.
According to the article, the amount of noise heard and the solutions to easing the problem often are related to the type of building that the apartments are in. Kevin Miller, president of an acoustical consulting firm in McLean, Virginia called Miller Henning, provides some explanations.
In the article, Miller states that if the building is not tall, tenants are more likely to hear noise from their neighbors above, because such buildings probably have wood joist construction. Wood is a good conductor of sound.
The article states that high-rise apartment buildings generally use concrete in their construction, especially their floors, making them more immune to the "vertical noise" problem. However, tenants in high rises might be hearing noise from trash chutes or rooftop fans. And in both high-rise and low-rise buildings, tenants may be bothered by noise from next-door neighbors if the walls between apartments are thin.
According to the article, the other type of noise that can bother all apartment dwellers as well as other city building tenants is noise from the world outside. Miller states that the types of windows used can make all the difference. Storm windows can reduce traffic noise, which is low frequency, while double-paned windows reduce high-frequency outside noise.
The article mentions that older buildings are often quieter because they usually used masonry construction. Newer buildings use lighter-weight wood and steel, rendering the buildings less impervious to noise.
PUBLICATION: Nottingham Evening Post
DATE: March 17, 2000
SECTION: News, Pg.3
DATELINE: Nottingham, England
The Nottingham Evening Post in Nottingham, England reports that the Broxtowe, England Borough Council has fined Daniel Bachelard GBP 100 after receiving complaints from neighbors about loud music late at night.
According to the article, Bachelard, who is 18 years old, had been asked to turn down the volume but did not comply. Broxtowe council officers received the complaints and then recorded the noise. Nottingham magistrates then fined Bachelard GBP 100 after he admitted to having made excessive noise.
PUBLICATION: Palm Beach Post
DATE: March 17, 2000
SECTION: Opinion, Pg. 15A
BYLINE: Jeanne Waldrop
DATELINE: Stuart, Florida
ACTIVISTS, INDIVIDUALS, AND GROUPS MENTIONED: Jeanne Waldrop
The Palm Beach Post published a letter to the editor by Jeanne Waldrop of Stuart Florida, who has complaints about noise pollution from a nearby rocket-testing facility. The letter is reprinted here in its entirety:
"In response to the March 1 article 'County supports buying Pratt's environmentally sensitive land': As I write in Stuart, I hear the frightening, loud, rumbling noises emitted from the Pratt & Whitney rocket testing facility.
Yes, in Stuart - that is how deafeningly loud this Pratt & Whitney facility is. The noises began about a year ago and have grown more frequent and louder.
Public officials and business groups negotiated with Pratt executives last year to keep the rocket operation here. Unfortunately, the people of northern Palm Beach and southern Martin counties within earshot of this operation are being subjected to horrendous noise pollution in the name of the dollar.
Now, the Palm Beach County Commission is trying to make good by buying the environmentally sensitive lands that Pratt owns. Yes, that is good, but our lives are interrupted almost daily by the noisy rocket-test stands, which is an unacceptable situation. The quality of life, property values, the tourist economy, the environment and wildlife are all affected by this situation."
Jeanne Waldrop
PUBLICATION: PR Newswire
DATE: March 17, 2000
SECTION: Financial News
DATELINE: Minneapolis, Minnesota
The Donaldson Company announced to the press that its Silent Partner (tm) muffler system has won a "Nifty Fifty" Award from Heavy Duty Trucking Magazine. The press release was sent over the PR Newswire and is reprinted here in its entirety:
Every year, the technical editors from Heavy Duty Trucking Magazine present "Nifty Fifty" Awards to the fifty most significant new truck-related products. In 1999, out of the hundreds of products evaluated, the editors chose the Donaldson Silent Partner(TM) muffler for one of these Nifty Fifty awards. It's easy to see why the editors selected the Silent Partner muffler. The Silent Partner is the first muffler developed specifically to address a growing problem for the trucking industry: complaints about engine brake noise. Engine-braked vehicles have increased in number by over 50% from 1992 to 1997, according to federal vehicle data. Over 90% of new on-the-highway vehicles are equipped with engine brakes. So the loud, harsh, "barking" noise produced during engine braking has become far more common. In response, communities all across the country have banned the use of engine brakes. And, every time a loud engine brake annoys the public, it does further harm to the trucking industry's image. Prior to the Silent Partner muffler, there had been other attempts to solve engine brake noise -- but these solutions were either expensive, ineffective, or had adverse effects on engine brake operation or vehicle performance. Silent Partner avoids these pitfalls. While its patent-pending design reduces engine brake noise to below federally mandated levels, the Silent Partner muffler has no effect on horsepower, drivability, or engine brake performance. In addition, the Silent Partner is a direct bolt-on replacement for conventional mufflers, so no expensive vehicle modifications are required. This makes the Silent Partner muffler the first cost-effective answer to engine brake noise. As Rod Kunkel, Donaldson's director of global transportation, says, "Silent Partner is a win-win solution for everyone. Communities get the peace and quiet they've always wanted, and truckers will still be able to use their engine brakes whenever necessary. Everybody benefits." The Donaldson Silent Partner muffler makes a very real contribution toward solving a highly visible problem that impacts the whole trucking industry. And it's a solution that's also drawing attention from the industry press: the Truck Writers of North America recently presented the Silent Partner muffler with their Technical Achievement Award.
SOURCE Donaldson Company, Inc. CONTACT: Kate Miller of Leistra Associates, 616-451-2632, for Donaldson Company, Inc.; or Ric Canepa of Donaldson Company, Inc., 612-887-3494 URL: http://www.prnewswire.com
PUBLICATION: PR Newswire
DATE: March 17, 2000
SECTION: Financial News
DATELINE: Fort Pierce, Florida
Pro Tech Communications, Inc. announced to the press the sale of 60% of its common stock to NCT Group, Inc. The press release appeared on the PR Newswire and is reprinted here in its entirety:
Pro Tech Communications, Inc. (OTC Bulletin Board: PCTU) today announced that it has completed negotiations with NCT Hearing Products, Inc. ("NCT Hearing") of NCT Group, Inc. (OTC Bulletin Board: NCTI) to sell 60% of the common stock of Pro Tech Communications, Inc. ("Pro Tech") in exchange for granting to Pro Tech rights to NCTI technologies, including its NoiseBuster(R) active noise reduction and ClearSpeech(R) noise and echo cancellation algorithms, for use in lightweight cellular, multimedia and telephony headsets. This acquisition is subject to the approval of definitive agreements and the approval of Pro Tech shareholders. NCT Hearing has arranged for Pro Tech a minimum $3.0 million of working capital financing for expansion of Pro Tech's existing product lines and creation of new products. Pro Tech currently sells high-quality, lightweight headsets to a number of high profile users such as the National Aeronautical Space Administration (NASA) space program, McDonald's Corporation and the Boeing Company. Keith Larkin, who founded Plantronics and ACS Wireless (recently acquired by GN Netcom), is the founder of Pro Tech. Plantronics and GN Netcom are the world's leading telephone headset companies. For more information, refer to the Company's World Wide Web site at http://www.protechcom.com . NCT Group, Inc. has extensive expertise in the area of headsets and is the creator of many award-winning, high-performance active noise reduction headset lines for a variety of consumer, commercial and industrial applications. The Company specializes in the utilization of sound and signal waves to reduce noise, improve signal-to- noise ratio and enhance sound quality. For more information, refer to the Company's World Wide Web site at http://www.nct-active.com .
Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements Certain information contained in this press release are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Act of 1995 (the "Act"), which became law in December 1995. In order to obtain the benefits of the "safe harbor" provisions of the Act for any such forward- looking statements, the Company wishes to caution investors and prospective investors about significant factors, which among others, have in some cases affected the Company's actual results and are in the future likely to affect the Company's actual results and cause them to differ materially from those expressed in any such forward-looking statements. Investors and prospective investors should read this press release in conjunction with the Company's most recent Form 10-K and Forms 10-Q.
SOURCE Pro Tech Communications, Inc. CONTACT: Rich Hennessey of Pro Tech Communications, Inc., 561-464-5100, or fax, 561-464-6644, or e-mail, richh@protechcom.com URL: http://www.prnewswire.com
PUBLICATION: Savannah Morning News
DATE: March 17, 2000
BYLINE: Noelle Phillips
DATELINE: Savannah, Georgia
The Savannah Morning News reports that the U.S. Navy is going to begin sharing space with the Marines at the Marine Corps Air Station in Beaufort, Georgia. Twenty-two Navy jets will mean that more than 100 planes will be at Beaufort, and the base's active-duty population will be increased by 500 people.
According to the article, the transition is proceeding smoothly. The Navy personnel and the Marine personnel are learning to work together, and the community of Beaufort has been receptive to the Navy's arrival. Many who live in the area are retired military force personnel.
According to the article, there has, however, been some concern about the increased noise level due to the greater number of jets. Marine Col. Bruce Hulick, the air station commander, stated that the base will do what it can to lessen the noise. He realizes that the increased noise will be particularly noticeable when the base's squadrons are practicing carrier landings. Hulick stated, "We're going to have to be more sensitive because we have more squadrons. We'll try to spread it out a little bit."
The article states that complaints about noise at the base are relatively rare - less than twenty a year. In the summer, because the sun sets later, squadrons practice carrier landings late at night when people would most likely be trying to sleep. Take-offs do not begin until 10:00 P.M. in the summer.
The article goes on to say that Hulick believes that one reason that the residents tolerate the noise very well is that they realize how important the air base is to the local economy. They appreciate that the Beaufort base is still growing, whereas many military bases across the country have had to cut back. A bigger base such as Beaufort would be much less likely to be on Congress's list of bases to be closed.
PUBLICATION: United Press International
DATE: March 17, 2000
SECTION: General News
BYLINE: James Oberg
DATELINE: Houston, Texas
ACTIVISTS, INDIVIDUALS, AND GROUPS MENTIONED: Blaine Hammond; Allen Li, GAO
The United Press International reports that the United States Government Accounting Office (GAO) recently testified before the U.S. House of Representatives that continuing to collaborate with Russia on the International Space Station program may be problematic due to Russian safety violations. Excessive noise inside the Russian modules is the most severe of the four violations mentioned. The other violations concern "protecting the modules from penetration by space debris, verifying that the windows are strong enough to withstand years of space exposure, and designing the equipment so it can function even in an emergency when air leaks out of the station."
According to the article, in July of this year Russia is supposed to launch the service module portion of the space station whose first two sections were launched in 1998. The service module contains important life-support equipment for the astronauts. Although the GAO believes that these violations are serious enough for the United States to insist upon a launch delay, it is possible that NASA will issue violation waivers as long as Russia agrees to work on the noise problems at a later date.
The article states that the noise level inside the Russian modules is so high that crews cannot converse normally. Much of the noise is due to fans and to motor engines that run constantly. Experts are worried that astronauts will suffer hearing loss if subjected to such a high volume of noise for a long period of time. It would prevent normal sleep patterns, and could cause psychological disturbances. In addition, the motor noises might prohibit the astronauts from hearing emergency warning alarms.
UPI interviewed former astronaut Blaine Hammond for this article. Hammond left NASA in 1997 over disagreements concerning the safety of U.S. astronauts while aboard the Russian Mir space station. According to the article, NASA's safety waivers for this service module would mean that crew members would be mandated to wear ear protection in the form of headsets. Hammond thinks the headsets are impractical, uncomfortable, and dangerous; he believes that most astronauts would not wear them anyway.
The article states that Allen Li, associate director for the GAO's National Security and International affairs Division, reported to the House subcommittee about the space station violations. The report is called "Space Station: Russian Compliance With Safety Requirements." In addition to the space station service module about to be launched, the report also deals with the Russian-built Zarya module, which was the first module launched as part of this new space station back in November 1998. He stated that 50 Russian cosmonauts who had been on the Mir space station were part of a study that showed that most of them suffered temporary or permanent hearing loss from the high noise levels aboard Mir, some serious enough to preclude them from being able to participate in any future space flights. In addition, one American astronaut aboard Mir suffered temporary hearing loss as well.
According to the article, Li told the subcommittee that NASA believes that the Russian modules do not meet NASA safety requirements because of "shortfalls in Russian funding, designs based on existing Russian hardware, and technical disagreements with Russian engineers."
According to the article, Li also stated, "NASA approves noncompliance with safety requirements when it determines the risks are acceptable because plans are in place to mitigate risk, or the deficiencies will last only a limited time."
The article states that NASA's allowable noise threshold is an average of 55 decibels during a twenty-four hour period. The threshold was increased to 60 decibels for the Russians when it became clear that they would not comply with the 55 decibel limit. However, in December 1998 the inside of the Zarya module generated noise at a level of between 65 and 74 decibels, as measured by a visiting space shuttle crew. Sixty decibels is similar to the sounds in a noisy office; 70 decibels is similar to normal road traffic noise, and 80 decibels is similar to the noise of a subway or of rock music. After mufflers were installed in the Zarya module, the noise level dropped to 62-64 decibels.
According to the article, the GAO is worried that if a waiver is issued by NASA, there is no guarantee that Russia will fix the problems at a later date. In the past, Russia has ignored other NASA violation waivers that called them to repair items at a later date. In addition, waiting to fix some of the problems until the module is in orbit can be logistically very problematic. In May 1999, a crew attempted to reduce noise levels by installing noise reduction equipment in orbit. The crew had evidently not been adequately trained to perform the job, and they were unable to install the mufflers properly. Duct work was damaged during the installation and will now have to be separately repaired.
The article mentions that the service module launch has already been delayed more than once. During this time, NASA does not believe that the Russians have begun to fix any of the aforementioned noise problems. This again raises doubts as to the Russians' ability and/or willingness to comply.
PUBLICATION: Atlanta Journal and Constitution
DATE: March 16, 2000
SECTION: Citylife Atlanta (Extra); Pg. 1Jd
BYLINE: Ernie Suggs
DATELINE: Atlanta, Georgia
ACTIVISTS, INDIVIDUALS, AND GROUPS MENTIONED: Katy Bryant, Buckhead Forest Civic Association
The Atlanta Journal and Constitution reports that Atlanta's Buckhead bar district is planning on huge crowds during the upcoming St. Patrick's Day weekend, and the city is preparing ahead of time to make sure that the area is well patrolled for safety and crowd control, and to make sure that the city noise ordinance is enforced.
The article reports that Buckhead boasts more than 90 drinking establishments. Over 30,000 revelers are expected to visit the district over the weekend. Two people were stabbed to death outside a Buckhead bar after a Super Bowl party in January, and as a result, many in the city want the bars to close earlier and they want the noise ordinance enforced.
The article reports that Eric Peterson manages Fado's Irish Pub, the largest Irish bar in the Buckhead district. Peterson said he will be hiring a large security force this weekend to handle Fado's crowds.
The article states that there will be more police patrolling Buckhead over the weekend. They will block off Bolling Way to vehicles from Peachtree Road to Pharr Road, in an attempt to stave off problems between drivers and pedestrians. They will also consider closing Buckhead Avenue if necessary.
According to the article, Jon Gordon, a member of the Buckhead Village Association and also a bar owner, said that a successful public safety test was conducted last weekend. He stated, "This past weekend was the best job the city has ever done in patrolling Buckhead. They really did it right. If they do that on St. Patrick's Day, everything will be fine."
The article states that Katy Bryant, president of the Buckhead Forest Civic Association, said that residents of the community are satisfied with the city's plans to control outbreaks. She said, "Zone 2 is taking a strong stance. They are certainly trying to contain it, and from what I have seen, they are really cracking down on citations."
According to the article, Fado's celebrations alone may attract 4,000 party goers. Some neighborhood residents are concerned about the noise. Bryant wants to be sure the police do their job. She said, "I would be interested to see the permitting process, as far as outdoor music is concerned and how that is going to be contained. There is a quality of life here, and we have a noise ordinance for a reason."
PUBLICATION: Augusta Chronicle
DATE: March 16, 2000
SECTION: Metro, Pg. B7
DATELINE: Augusta, Georgia
The Augusta, Georgia Chronicle published reader comments on a variety of topics in its "Rants and Raves" column. One is from a reader who expresses concern about noise at Skyfest 2000. The comments are reprinted here in their entirety:
"While the mayor and others are showing their elation over Skyfest 2000, let me share my concern. I live a mile from Augusta Regional Airport at Bush Field. The neighborhood is quite used to the everyday operations of the airport, but the other day, a military jet flew quite low over this area. The noise was horrific! This was only one jet. Can you imagine what the noise level is going to be during Skyfest? The federal government moved an entire town in Kentucky because of airport noise. What is the mayor going to do for the residents of the area surrounding Bush Field? My 6-year-old grandson, who lives near me, has tubes in his ears because of numerous ear infections, and loud noises are agony to him."
PUBLICATION: Baltimore Sun
DATE: March 16, 2000
SECTION: Local,1B
BYLINE: Lisa Respers
DATELINE: Savage, Maryland
ACTIVISTS, INDIVIDUALS, AND GROUPS MENTIONED: Bobby Austin, Jenny Jones
The Baltimore Sun reports that residents in a Savage, Maryland neighborhood are concerned that an historic home, which may be converted to an inn, will increase noise and traffic in the area.
According to the article, the owner of the home is Susan Betts. She owns the Joshua Barney House on the Savage-Guilford Road, which was built in 1811 by Commodore Joshua Barney and is on the National Register of Historic Places. Betts has applied for a "special exception" to convert the home and its seven-acre property into an inn. Renovations will include four guest bedrooms and a 1,900-square-foot addition.
The article goes on to say that David A. Carney is a lawyer representing Betts. He said the inn's business will including hosting up to 8 guests in its four bedrooms, and accommodating functions such as seminars and receptions that would hold up to 50 people. Carney added that the addition will actually be an area for the owners to live in.
The article reports that Betts' next-door neighbor Bobby Austin is concerned about the inn. He believes that many more people than 50 might be at the inn at one time if staff and caterers are taken into account. He said, "I don't believe they should be able to hold outside events and things like that so close to someone else's home."
The article mentions that another concerned resident is Jenny Jones. Jones stated, "Even if they used some type of enclosure, with 50 people there is still going to be noise. We haven't figured out who or how all that will be monitored." There are also traffic concerns because there are two schools nearby.
PUBLICATION: Bangor Daily News
DATE: March 16, 2000
BYLINE: Wayne L. Brown
DATELINE: Island Falls, Maine
The Bangor Daily News reports that Island Falls, Maine voters recently recalled a portion of the town's zoning ordinance in order to protect the National Starch and Chemical Company factory in town. The zoning ordinance from 1974 said that the town would prohibit "all uses that are obnoxious or injurious to health or property by reason of odor, dust, smoke, refuse-matter fumes, noise, vibration or similar conditions."
According to the article, an Island Falls seasonal resident had complained about the humming and whining noises from the factory. The person later withdrew the complaint. Town Manager Cheryl McNally said that full-time residents are not bothered much by the noise, and so the town introduced an article to remove the prohibited-uses portion of the town's zoning ordinance.
The article reports that the National Starch and Chemical factory is important to the town and employs 70 people. The town was worried that if the zoning ordinance were enforced, the factory's future in town might be jeopardized.
The article mentions that the recent town meeting was well attended by employees and management officials from National Starch and Chemical.
PUBLICATION: Bristol Evening Post
DATE: March 16, 2000
SECTION: News, Pg.12
BYLINE: Ian Onions
DATELINE: Bristol, England
ACTIVISTS, INDIVIDUALS, AND GROUPS MENTIONED: Mark Ashman
The Bristol Evening Post reports that a nightclub aboard a ship moored at the Bristol, England City Docks might be moved to a different mooring because of noise complaints from nearby residents.
According to the article, the city has received complaints about noise late at night coming from the Thekla floating nightclub. Council officials will investigate the issue. In the meantime, they will renew the club's public entertainment license for another year, which allows the club to remain open until 2:00 AM from Sunday through Wednesday, and until 4:00 AM from Thursday through Saturday.
The article states that Council Chairman Ron Stone said that the council cannot legally require the boat to change dock berths. Licensing officer Nick Carter mentioned that the boat would be required to submit an application for planning permission if it moved to a different mooring.
The article goes on to say that Mark Ashman, who lives at Redcliffe Parade, has been bothered by noise from the nightclub during the last few months, and added that it had not been that noisy previously.
The article mentions that Peter Jackson, who owns the Thekla, said that he actually installed soundproofing material on the boat last summer. He claimed to have received no noise complaints since that time. Jackson added that the club is conscientious about dealing with noise problems. The boat has a noise hotline, and the club keeps a daily noise log in order to keep track of noise outbreaks. Jackson stated that he deals with noise complaints promptly. He is not opposed to the nightclub being moved to a different City Dock berth.
PUBLICATION: Business Wire
DATE: March 16, 2000
DATELINE: San Jose, California
A press release was issued through the Business Wire by CadMOS Design Technology, Inc. The company announces the introduction of its SeismIC (tm) substrate noise analyzer. The press release is reprinted here in its entirety:
Tool Performs Substrate Extraction and Noise Analysis, Enables Safe Integration of Analog and Digital Components.
CadMOS Design Technology, Inc. today announced SeismIC(TM), a substrate noise analyzer targeted at multi-million transistor mixed signal systems-on-chip (SOC) designs such as networking and wireless communications chips.
SeismIC(TM) enables ultra deep submicron (UDSM) designers to simulate and analyze the affects of substrate noise coupling throughout the design process and to catch noise induced failures prior to manufacturing.
"Substrate noise coupling has become a source of reduced performance in mixed signal, high speed networking ICs," said Augustine Kuo, analog design manager at Altima Communications. "We have successfully used SeismIC(TM) to simulate the affects of substrate noise coupling in our designs and have implemented several simple cost effective enhancements to improve the design robustness based on SeismIC(TM) results. With SeismIC(TM), we found potential noise problem areas and fixed them, avoiding costly silicon re-spins."
"SeismIC represents the second product in CadMOS' roadmap to provide SOC designers with solutions to the noise problems they face when using UDSM processes," said Charlie Huang, chief executive officer of CadMOS. "It addresses a key design problem that arises whenever sensitive analog components share a common substrate with increasingly noisy digital components."
Substrate Noise in Mixed Signal Systems
Mixed-signal design is characteristically plagued by substrate noise coupling between the high-speed digital and high precision analog circuits. When high-speed digital components switch, they inject currents into substrate, causing voltage fluctuations that can affect the operation of sensitive analog circuitry and cause them to malfunction. Furthermore, noise can also be injected into the substrate from supply rails via substrate contacts causing increased noise coupling to sensitive analog circuitry.
The substrate noise problem is particularly acute in high speed UDSM, SOC designs. As feature sizes decrease and design density increases, the distance between the noise sources and sensitive devices is dramatically reduced. Moreover, with higher clock frequencies, the digital circuits become noisier and consequently substrate noise interference is further aggravated resulting in an increased likelihood of noise failures that can seriously compromise system functionality, performance and production yields.
Traditionally, designers have relied on over-design and expensive processes to safeguard against substrate noise coupling in their designs. In many cases, particularly for high frequency UDSM designs, these approaches are insufficient, resulting in wasted silicon area and reduced operating performance.
About SeismIC(TM)
SeismIC(TM) is a breakthrough substrate noise analyzer that uses unique adaptive modeling techniques permitting accurate 3D-substrate extraction and noise analysis of multi-million transistor designs. SeismIC(TM) determines the major noise contributors and provides visual feedback by highlighting them on the layout.
SeismIC(TM) also has an option to provide advice on the design changes that will reduce the impact of substrate noise. For example, SeismIC can provide advice on the effectiveness of guard rings. Guard rings are typically used to reduce substrate coupling but overuse can mean wasted area and even an increase in the substrate noise observed by analog devices. SeismIC can advise when guard-rings should be inserted and when they should be removed.
With SeismIC(TM), designers can make cost-effective and educated design tradeoffs in selecting the best layout structure, process, package, and power supply distribution strategy that ensures substrate noise immunity in their designs.
Availability, Pricing and Interfaces
SeismIC(TM) is available now on SUN's Solaris 2.6. Pricing starts at $75,000 U.S. list for an annual time based license including maintenance. SeismIC(TM) integrates easily into existing design flows. It accepts a GDSII stream file and a layout extracted netlist in SPICE format. Other inputs include substrate process parameters, a signal toggle file from circuit simulation tools such as HSPICE, Spectre, StarSim or PowerMill and a package parasitic model including bond-wire and pin inductances.
SeismIC(TM) outputs waveforms and spectral components of substrate noise at sensitive analog components. The noise contributors and their contribution levels are highlighted using SeismIC's own layout viewer. When used with the design advisor option, SeismIC reports a list of recommended design changes to reduce substrate noise.
About CadMOS Design Technology, Inc.
CadMOS was founded in August 1997 by CAD and design experts from IBM and Synopsys/EPIC and is funded by U.S. Venture Partners, Intel Capital, Allegro Capital and private investors. The company is privately held, and is headquartered in San Jose, CA. CadMOS provides premium solutions and services to the electrical problems found in leading edge SOC designs.
CadMOS sells its products directly in the US and through distributors worldwide. CadMOS is located at 111 North Market, Suite 440, San Jose, CA 95113, USA. Telephone: 408/795-1212. Fax: 408/795-1210. Email: info@cadmos.com. Website: http://www.cadmos.com.
CONTACT: CadMOS Design Technology Jim McCanny, 408/795-1214 jim@cadmos.com or Lee Public Relations Pam Wasserman, 650/363-0142 pam@leepr.com
PUBLICATION: Deseret News
DATE: March 16, 2000
SECTION: Local; Pg. B01
BYLINE: Elyse Hayes
DATELINE: Farmington, Utah
The Deseret News reports that the Farmington, Utah city council recently voted not to open the city pool on Sundays, despite some residents' opposition to the closure. Most proponents of the closure cited religious reasons, but some residents were also concerned about increased noise and traffic if the pool were allowed to open on Sundays.
According to the article, at a recent city hearing at which the council voted on the issue, resident Scott Bass claimed that, for him, noise was the primary issue and not religion. He wants to see the pool remained closed on Sundays.
However, the article reports that another resident, Garn Carr, thinks that noise should not be the primary issue. He stated, "If the city is serious about a noise ordinance, let's enforce it across the board. If it means closing I-15 one day a week and Lagoon one day a week, so be it."
The article mentions that a survey of 542 residents showed that a majority want the pool closed on Sunday.
According to the article, council member David Dixon explained his vote by saying, "I know it would be offensive to my next-door neighbors if I used my pool on Sundays. The city should be a good neighbor."
PUBLICATION: Evening Herald
DATE: March 16, 2000
SECTION: Pg.14
BYLINE: Louise Yearling
DATELINE: Plympton, England
ACTIVISTS, INDIVIDUALS, AND GROUPS MENTIONED: Andy Price, Dorothy Nicholls
The Plymouth, England Evening Herald reports that there have been many noise complaints lodged by Plympton residents against businesses at the Valley Road Industrial Estate. Residents says that the noise has become increasingly loud over the last few years.
According to the article, part of the problem is that many of the businesses are now open much longer and later. Residents complain about evening, nighttime, and weekend noise, in addition to noise generated during normal weekday business hours.
The article reports that resident Andy Price believes that the city council should regulate allowable business work hours and noise levels. As a result of his concerns, the Plymouth City Council had an environmental health officer study the noise problem at the industrial park. Price said that, since the health officer's visit, trucks no longer use a business entrance behind his home at night. However, other residents are now bothered by those same trucks using a side entrance down the road instead.
The article states that resident Dorothy Nicholls complains about being subjected to loud vehicle noise at all hours of the day and night.
The article reports that Plympton Erle Councillor Kathleen Banks stated that the council has been working on the problem for three years, and that much of the problem is due to firms that conduct business outside of usual business hours. She said that many residents have complained about the noise.
The article reports that one of the companies involved, PJ Kingwell and Sons Ltd, general only runs its business from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. The company has responded to some of the residents' complaints by moving security lights and cameras away from areas that bother their neighbors. A spokeswoman said, "We go to a lot of trouble to accommodate the residents in Dudley Road."
According to the article, a spokesman for the city council stated that the council has listened to residents' complaints and worked with the offending businesses to help them with the noise problem. He stated that the businesses have cooperated.
PUBLICATION: Gloucestershire Echo
DATE: March 16, 2000
SECTION: News: Environment, Pg.20
DATELINE: Gloucestershire, England
ACTIVISTS, INDIVIDUALS, AND GROUPS MENTIONED: Laureen Toner, June Powell, Tony Willis, Lilian and Cyril Skeen
The Gloucestershire Echo in England reports that the "doughnut building" construction project at the GCHQ spy center is angering area residents. It is the largest construction site in Europe, costing GBP 300 million.
According to the article, an earthen berm has been built to shield residents from the construction site's noise. But the berm is 30 feet high and has been erected a mere 15 yards from the backs of homes in the Fiddler's Green area of Kempton Grove. Residents claim that the berm is much larger than they imagined it would be, and it ruins their view.
The article mentions that some of the residents who have complained about the earthen bank include Laureen Toner, June Powell, Tony Willis, and Lilian and Cyril Skeen. Toner lamented, "Our view used to be open fields, the reason why we bought our houses. Now we have to look at what resembles a slag heap. It's a nightmare."
According to the article, a spokesman for the Carillion construction firm (formerly Tarmac Construction) claims that neighbors had been previously informed of the size and scope of the bank. He said if the bank were lower, residents would hear more noise from the site.
PUBLICATION: Indianapolis Star
DATE: March 16, 2000
SECTION: Metro North; Pg. N01
BYLINE: Phil Dunlap
DATELINE: Carmel, Indiana
The Indianapolis Star reports that the Carmel,Indiana Library Director, John Fuchs, is leaving his post after eight years. He was instrumental in getting the $24.5 million community library built. Library usage is up. However, there have been complaints about the noise levels outside the building due to the library's new air conditioning system.
According to the article, the cause of the problem is the air-conditioning system's chiller units, which are located on the outside of the library building. The library has done a lot to try to ameliorate the situation. It has spent "approximately $150,000 to add extra baffling (deadening) enclosures and to insulate each of the compressors. A shroud device was installed to funnel noise upward to dissipate the sound at a higher elevation."
The article reports that the chiller units kick on when the temperature rises to 58 degrees. The temperature reached 70 degrees last week, and the library did not receive any complaints about the noise. They are hopeful that the soundproofing has fixed the noise problem. However, sound technicians will be measuring the noise level in May when the air-conditioning unit is working at its maximum. So the final result will not be know until then.
The article states that nearby resident Gerlinde Benbow complained last year that the library's air conditioner noise sounded as loud as a construction truck.
PUBLICATION: M2 Presswire
DATE: March 16, 2000
DATELINE: Washington, DC
The M2 Presswire reports that the United States government today filed a formal "Article 84" action with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) against the European Union (EU). The complaint concerns ongoing controversy surrounding the EU's proposed ban of aircraft that use American hushkit technology to make the planes quieter.
According to the article, the EU is planning to enforce a new regulation beginning May 4, 2000 that would ban hushkitted aircraft from European airspace, even though hushkits enable American aircraft to meet the most stringent "Stage 3" international noise standard. The U.S. accuses the EU of enforcing the regulation in order to protect European aviation interests at the expense of the United States airline industry. The U.S. also feels that the EU ban is illegal.
The article quotes Carol Hallett, president and CEO of the American Air Transport Association (ATA), as saying, "This European regulation banning aircraft with hushkits is clearly illegal under international law and we support our government in taking strong action. The Europeans are interested in banning U.S. hush-kit technology. By filing this complaint, the U.S. government is putting this issue back where it belongs -- with the international body [editor's note: the ICAO] responsible for setting those aviation noise standards."
The article mentions that, even though aircraft outfitted with American hushkits are as quiet and as safe as new European aircraft, the EU regulation will not allow any such aircraft to be registered in the EU after the enforcement date of May 4. It will also not allow these non-registered aircraft to fly within European airspace within two years of May 4, 2000. However, hushkitted aircraft that have been registered with the EU will still be allowed to operate within European airspace after 2002.
According to the article, Hallett is also concerned that the EU is trying to enforce something that should fall under the ICAO's jurisdiction. She stated, "The European Commission is not a member of ICAO but is attempting to usurp ICAO's role by this action. The international community cannot allow this to happen. The Europeans are clearly wrong and they need to abide by international law." Hallett also added, "This issue is not the U.S. versus Europe, it is Europe versus ICAO."
The article goes on to say that the ICAO has been setting international air standards for fifty years. The illegal EU ban will jeopardize international aviation growth.
The article adds that the ATA is the United States airlines trade association. More than 95% of all air traffic in the U.S. originates from ATA members.
PUBLICATION: Orange County Register
DATE: March 16, 2000
SECTION: Community; Pg. 01
BYLINE: Lisa Faught
DATELINE: Costa Mesa, California
ACTIVISTS, INDIVIDUALS, AND GROUPS MENTIONED: Al Morelli
The Orange County Register reports that the city of Costa Mesa, California will allow Dayton Hudson Corporation to proceed with building a Target store on Harbor Boulevard. However, after residents expressed concerns about noise from the new store, the store's plans were amended somewhat. A Planning Commission meeting was held on Monday. Many residents do not feel that the changes address all of their concerns about noise, however.
According to the article, resident Al Morelli presented an appeal to the city on February 28. Morelli was concerned about the effects of the store's garden center on neighborhood noise. He also expressed concern over traffic, the need for a buffer, and insufficient plans for landscaping.
The article reports that David Leighton, a city resident and former city planner, proposed that Dayton Hudson change its building plans by putting the garden center on the south side of the building, instead of the north side, to decrease the noise that neighbors would be able to hear. However, the city Planning Commission did not consider Leighton's plans. Instead, Dayton Hudson has agreed to make the garden center smaller by 2,000 square feet (without changing its location) and to add more landscaping around it. Additionally, the company will landscape more along its north side buffer so that Shamrock Lane residents will not hear as much noise.
According to the article, the Target store itself will be 143,500 square feet. The size of the garden center will be reduced to about 8,830 square feet. Additional buildings on the site will add roughly another 80,000 square feet.
The article mentions that the Planning Commission will limit the hours during which the store's trucks may load and unload, will forbid customers to use their vehicles to pick-up their purchases at the garden center, and will ask the store to raise the height of a wall on the east side of the store's lot to 26 feet.
The article states that residents are still concerned that the noise levels will be too great. One possibility would be for them to appeal the Commission's decision to the City Council.
The article quoted Morelli as saying, "They have 17 acres and basically they're putting the garden center right by the residents."
PUBLICATION: Patriot Ledger
DATE: March 16, 2000
SECTION: News; Pg. 01
BYLINE: Carrie Levine
DATELINE: Hingham, Massachusetts
ACTIVISTS, INDIVIDUALS, AND GROUPS MENTIONED: Mary Anne Frye; Philip Lemnios, Hull Town Manager; Mary Jeanette Murray, State Representative
The Patriot Ledger reports that twenty-five residents from towns on the south shore of Boston harbor met at the Hingham Town Hall to discuss forming a regional task force to fight against Logan Airport jet noise. Residents complain that the airport noise continues to increase, disturbing their sleep and other activities.
The article states that Philip Lemnios, Manager for the Town of Hull, advised the group that communicating with Massport is a challenge. He believes that it will take a "concerted regional effort spearheaded by elected officials" to get Massport to listen to the towns' concerns. Quite a few elected officials attended the Hingham meeting.
According to the article, Lemnios noted that Massport plans to build another runway, which would cause even more problems for residents in the affected towns.
The article reports that state representative Mary Jeanette Murray attended the meeting. She believes that it is in the towns' best interests to continue to let Massport and the FAA known their concerns. She advised them, "Call Massport as often as you can." She mentioned that the communities of Dorchester, Milton, and Winthrop have been doing just that. The goal is to convince the FAA to have more aircraft take off and land over water.
The article added that Selectmen Michael Holden and Martin Crane were also at the meeting. Others in attendance were candidates Maureen Devine, Mary Anne McKenna, Garrett Bradley, and Senate candidate Ted LeClair.
According to the article, Mary Anne Frye, who organized the meeting, insisted that any elected candidates must also continue the airport noise campaign. She said, "We need nonpartisan, constant focus on this issue."
The article mentions that officials believe that the towns of Hingham, Hull, and Cohasset will hopefully all join the regional task force to deal with the problem.
PUBLICATION: Sacramento Bee
DATE: March 16, 2000
SECTION: Business; Pg. F2; High Tech
BYLINE: Cheryl Leff
DATELINE: Sacramento, California
The Sacramento Bee reports that a reader wrote in to expert Cheryl Leff to ask her if the bothersome noise coming from her new computer is normal, and how she can help to make it quieter.
According to the article, the reader noticed the loud noise level as soon as she got her new computer home. She thought it might be the fan, but the store from where she bought the computer told her that the fan is running fine. She asks what the normal noise level range of a working computer should be.
The article contains Leff's lengthy answer to the reader's question. Leff said that the noise level of computers differs greatly depending on the computer, the listener, and the environment. She said an owner would notice any noise from a computer much more when the computer is set up at home, compared to a computer that is being used in an office environment, for example. She said that, generally, a noisy computer would probably register between 60 and 90 decibels. People generally begin to be annoyed by any noise levels that exceed 50 decibels. Studies have concluded that hearing loss will occur if a person is subjected to 73 decibels of noise for 8 hours a day for 40 years, or when subjected to 85 decibels over a shorter number of years. So a computer will certainly not cause hearing damage, even though the noise is bothersome.
The article lists the sound levels of various noises that many people often hear: quiet library, 30 decibels; average home, 50; normal conversation, 60; average factory, 80-90; lawn mower or shop tools, 90; chain saw, pneumatic drill, snowmobile, 100; auto horn, 120; gunshot, 140; rocket launch, 180.
Leff states in the article that the fan and the disk drive are probably the only computer components that would generate noise. The fan runs continuously on a properly working computer. If the reader is hearing a continuous noise, then it is probably the fan. But the reader's fan is probably working correctly, since the store already tested it. So the reader could lessen this noise by creating something that would absorb the sound that comes through the walls of the computer and the vent opening. Leff suggests padding the surface that the vent opening faces, making sure that there are several inches of clearance space under the opening, and plenty of air flow around it. The fan's job is to cool the computer, and it must have proper air flow to safely do its job.
The article reports that Leff also recommends that the reader use foam or fabric to pad the room walls that closely surround the computer. She suggests that a computer that is on the floor under or next to a desk could be soundproofed by using something like foam rubber or a terry cloth towel to pad the side of the desk or the room walls next to the computer, or by affixing the padding to the outside of the computer case itself.
The article states that Leff additionally recommends that the reader set the computer on a thick foam pad to prevent the noise from traveling through the desk or the floor. Finally, the reader could also just go and buy a pair of earplugs.
The article states that Cheryl Leff is president of Better Business Webs. She can be contacted at(916) 721-1009 or www.betterbusinesswebs.com, or by emailing her at questions@betterbusinesswebs.com.
PUBLICATION: San Diego Union-Tribune
DATE: March 16, 2000
SECTION: Local; Pg. B-2
DATELINE: Carlsbad, California
The San Diego Union-Tribune reports that a noise study will be conducted at McClellan-Palomar Airport in Carlsbad, California. Residents have become increasingly bothered by noise from the planes using the airport.
The article states that if the study shows that the noise levels are loud enough to warrant it, the airport may need to amend its noise-abatement program that has been in effect for the last ten years. Part of the problem is that more than 800 homes have been built within three miles of the airport in the last three years.
The article reports that the county Board of Supervisors voted unanimously to apply for a grant from the FAA to help with the costs of the study. The grant would total $225,000, and the county would pay an additional $25,000 itself for the study.
According to the article, the airport is owned by the county and is 41 years old. Even though it only has a single runway, it is also the county's busiest airport. Last year alone, the airport reported 300,000 takeoffs and landings.
PUBLICATION: Sarasota Herald-Tribune
DATE: March 16, 2000
SECTION: A Section, Pg. 1A
BYLINE: Chad Binette
DATELINE: Sarasota, Florida
The Sarasota Herald-Tribune reports that the Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport will probably begin implementing its expansion plan this spring. The plan will include building a longer runway and a larger passenger terminal, as well as adding a parking garage and as many as 144 airplane hangars.
According to the article, the Sarasota County Commission met last Wednesday and voted unanimously to approve the implementation of the airport's plan. Residents also attended the meeting, and some of them had concerns about noise from the airport.
The article reports that the airport is in both Sarasota and Manatee counties. Other agencies that have already approved the plan are the Manatee County Commission, the Airport Authority, and the Tampa Bay and Southwest Florida regional planning commissions. The only agency which has not yet signed off on the plan is the Sarasota City Commission, which will hold a final public hearing on April 1.
The article states that Fred Piccolo is executive director of the Sarasota-Manatee Airport Authority. Piccolo said that the airport could be more competitive with Tampa International Airport and Southwest Florida International Airport in Fort Myers if it were larger. In addition, Piccolo mentioned that there are safety issues with the current airport. The plan would lengthen a runway from 7,000 to 9,500 feet, which is a much-needed change, given that the airport's current runway is shorter than the runways at all of the other major Florida airports.
According to the article, the expansion is also expected to help the economy by bringing more businesses to the area such as restaurants and hotels.
The article states that the airport plans to incorporate sound reduction into the expansion plan. Thirty oak trees will be planted along 1,000 feet of the U.S. Route 41 median. Sound barriers will also be constructed on U.S. Route 41 and on Tallevast Road. Some residents of Indian Beach and Sapphire Shores, which are neighborhoods that are both close to the airport, do not believe that the airport's plans are sufficient, however. They are requesting a better buffer, as well as soundproofing of some of the airport's ground-based power units.
According to the article, Longboat Key residents are concerned about a portion of the plan that calls for more planes to take off over land rather than water. It would increase the noise over their community, although Trailer Estates and El Conquistador in Manatee County would probably benefit from the change. Officials from Longboat Key have taken Manatee County to court over this flight plan. The County had approved both the expansion and the flight plan. However, Sarasota County commissioners only approved the expansion plan. They believe the flight plan falls under the jurisdiction of the FAA.
PUBLICATION: St. Louis Post-Dispatch
DATE: March 16, 2000
SECTION: West Post, Pg. 1
BYLINE: Florence Shinkle
DATELINE: St. Clair, Missouri
ACTIVISTS, INDIVIDUALS, AND GROUPS MENTIONED: Citizens for the Preservation of the Bourbeuse River Valley
The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that Capitol Quarries of Jefferson City wishes to operate a quarry on the Suntrup Farms property on Dry Branch Road in St. Clair. Many residents oppose the quarry operation because of the noise that it will generate. Legal technicalities concerning Missouri state statutes that govern quarry operations may or may not work in the quarry's favor.
According to the article, Capitol Quarries applied to Franklin County for an operation permit. The review committee of the county's Planning and Zoning Commission recommended in February that the county deny the application, after hearing persuasive arguments from area residents who organized a group called the Citizens for the Preservation of the Bourbeuse River. The quarry's trucks would use Dry Branch and St. Louis Inn roads, which are both gravel roads with only twenty houses along them. The residents were concerned about both the volume of traffic and the noise that would be generated.
The article reports that a little-known Missouri statute may prohibit the county from making decisions about the quarry. Franklin County Attorney Mark Vincent cited Missouri Statute 64.890, which exempts mines from county regulation. This would mean that the quarry would not even need to apply for a permit in order to operate, according to Vincent.
According to the article, Mike Kufrovish, the compliance officer for Capitol Quarries, says that he was previously unaware of the statute. The company always complies with Missouri Department of Natural Resources regulations when they operate mines, but the company has never before encountered this statute when trying to open a new quarry.
The article goes on to say, however, that the property owners involved hired their own attorney, Dave Baylard, who has challenged the statute. He found that statute 64.560, which was practically the same as 64.890, was declared unconstitutional by the Missouri Supreme Court in 1977. Baylard wonders, therefore, if statute 64.890 could also be considered unconstitutional. He will sue the county commissioners on his clients' behalf in Franklin Count Circuit Court, and ask that 64.890 to also be legally declared unconstitutional.
The article reports that, while the case is pending, the Franklin County Planning and Zoning Commission will go ahead and vote next week on the permit application anyway.
PUBLICATION: Tulsa World
DATE: March 16, 2000
DATELINE: Tulsa, Oklahoma
The Tulsa World reports that the U.S. House of Representatives passed a $40 billion aviation bill that will include $2 million to be allocated to a noise mitigation program at Tulsa International Airport. The program can begin as soon as President Clinton signs the bill.
According to the article, Tulsa's noise mitigation program will cost a total of $33 million. The FAA has already approved the plan and will fund 80%. The remaining 20% will come from a Passenger Facility Charge of $3 per ticket. Two million dollars will be spent this year on the plan; during the next three years, $8 million, $4 million, and $2 million will be spent, respectively.
The article states that qualifying residents may choose one of three noise mitigation plans for their homes. The choices are: 1)about $15,000 of sound insulation per home, 2)negotiated payments for flyover easements, or 3)a home sales assistance program. Homes involved are located south of Pine Street and west of Memorial Drive, south of Pine Street and east of 89th East Avenue, and west of Sheridan Road and north of Apache Street. Airport director Brent Kitchen believes that the program might be able to be completed in less than five years with this new federal funding.
According to the article, the House bill will increase the safety of the airways and allow for continued growth. Under the bill, a total of $12.7 billion will be spent by the U.S. government next year on aviation throughout the country, which is $2.7 billion more than was spent this year.
The article goes on to discuss the details of the federal bill and how it will affect air travelers nationwide.
PUBLICATION: USA Today
DATE: March 16, 2000
SECTION: News; Pg. 8A
BYLINE: Scott Bowles and Wendy Koch
DATELINE: Washington, D.C.
USA Today reports that airports around the country are waiting for President Clinton to sign the aviation bill recently passed by the U.S. House of Representatives. If the president signs the bill, many U.S. airports are expected to begin building programs next year. Los Angeles International Airport will use some of its allotted money on noise mitigation programs.
According to the article, in addition to the money granted to airports by the federal government, the airports will also be allowed to increase their own local ticket taxes. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) plans to increase ticket fees and use that money to help soundproof 30,000 homes near the airport. LAX has already paid for soundproofing doors and windows on many homes, but the soundproofing only works if the doors and windows are always kept shut. The airport would now like to install air conditioning systems in all of those homes so that the soundproofing has a chance to work.
According to the article, the ten busiest airports in the U.S. will receive between $9 million and $22 million each from the government under the bill next year. In addition, more flights will be allowed at Reagan National in Washington, D.C., O'Hare in Chicago, and LaGuardia and Kennedy International Airport in New York.
The article mentions that O'Hare officials believe that residents near O'Hare International Airport in Chicago will actually benefit from the easing of flight restrictions, because more flights will be able to take place during the day. Nighttime flights, which annoy people most when they are trying to sleep, can then be reduced. O'Hare plans to add about 20 flights a day under the new regulations.
The article states that some residents, such as Ann Caruth, do not believe that the bill will actually decrease the noise from O'Hare. These residents believe that more planes will simply mean more noise.
The article goes on to discuss in more detail more aspects of the federal aviation bill.
PUBLICATION: Vancouver Sun
DATE: March 16, 2000
SECTION: News; B3
BYLINE: Glenn Bohn
DATELINE: Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
ACTIVISTS, INDIVIDUALS, AND GROUPS MENTIONED: Francois Du Preez, Grouse Woods/Capilano Residents Association
The Vancouver Sun reports that work on the Cleveland Dam has been delayed and will begin in March 2001 instead of this year. The delay is due to continuing questions about the dam upgrade's effect on the nearby Capilano salmon hatchery. There have also been complaints about the noise that will be generated by the construction project and the district engineers are attempting to address the concerns.
The article states that the federal fisheries department has not yet granted its approval of the project, which consists of an upgrade of the east abutment of the dam. The project will cost $20 million. The Greater Vancouver Regional District (GVRD) is in charge of the project. The GVRD's Frank Huber explained some of the details of the construction project.
According to the article, a "seepage control blanket" is planned to help strengthen the dam by stopping water leaks through the ground which would destabilize the dam. Installation of the clay liner (the "seepage control blanket") will involve moving much of the existing soil. The planned dump area for the soil is in the Capilano watershed. Groundwater will also be funneled to the salmon hatchery. The fisheries department wants the GVRD to make changes that will be less harmful to the hatchery.
The article states that part of the GVRD's summer plans will include constructing a noise barrier to protect homes on Nancy Greene Way from the noise of the trucks transporting soil for the watershed project. The barrier will be 4.5 meters long and 1.5 km long.
The article states that the Grouse Woods/Capilano Residents Association threatened to sue last summer because the GVRD board refused to go along with the Association's demand that a new road be built for the trucks instead. The GVRD said a new road would be too expensive - from $2.8 to $4.6 million, as opposed to only $600,000 for the noise barrier.
The article reports that Francois Du Preez, co-chairperson of the residents' association, is not satisfied that the noise barrier will be effective enough. Most of the homes affected are higher than 4.5 meters. Du Preez said that the Association plans to file an injunction against GVRD to prevent the use of the road by the trucks. They will try to time the injunction so that it is filed nearer to the time when the actual project work begins.
The article mentions that the planned start for the project is now March 2001, with completion by July 2002.
PUBLICATION: Bristol United Press
DATE: March 16, 2000
SECTION: News, Pg.7
BYLINE: M. Ashby
DATELINE: Bristol, England
The Bristol United Press in Bristol, England printed a letter by reader M. Ashby concerning low-level low frequency noise. The letter is reprinted here in its entirety:
"I pity Helen Reid as she has now become sensitive to low-level low frequency. Soon she will find she no longer can accept it with humour. Many sufferers have committed suicide, or are on the verge of doing so.
There are many sources, but if one lives in an isolated area, what then? We who have suffered for years believe the main culprit is distribution of natural gas.
This humming has various sounds: Plane engine; lorry engine; droning, fluctuating deep throbbing; hissing etc, and all loud within your home.
Helen Reid's M' Lud, if he can't hear the noise, might soon decide to leave her . . . it is causing much friction in many homes.
Low-level low frequency is unlike other noises, it travels for many miles, is unable to be shut out, enters anything solid, such as buildings, bones, brains etc. If one also feel the vibrations, life becomes a complete nightmare, often with ME symptoms.
To anyone suffering from this I would advise contacting: Mrs M Chambers, Hon Secretary, Low Frequency Noise Sufferers' Association, 390 Sinfin Avenue, Sheldon Lock, Derby, BE24 9QZ"
M Ashby
Birmingham
PUBLICATION: Xinhua News Agency
DATE: March 16, 2000
SECTION: World News; Science, Cultural, Education, Health
DATELINE: Brussels, Belgium
The Xinhua News Agency reports that the European Union is disappointed that the United States filed an Article 84 complaint with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) concerning the EU's ban of older non-EU aircraft outfitted with hushkits (airplane engine noise reduction mufflers.) The EU said that the action will make it more difficult for the EU and the U.S. to arrive at any type of agreement on this issue.
According to the article, the EU plans to ban hushkitted aircraft beginning on May 4. The United States protested the ban, stating that the ban discriminated against the United States, because it is the U.S. which typically outfits older planes with hushkits. In addition, all hushkit makers are headquartered in the United States.
The article states that the EU claims that hushkits do not effectively control noise and air pollution. The EU had previously stated that it might not put the ban into effect as long as the U.S. agreed to adhere to new international noise pollution standards.
PUBLICATION: Chicago Tribune
DATE: March 16, 2000
SECTION: Metro Northwest; Pg. 1; Zone: Nw
BYLINE: Rogers Worthington
DATELINE: Chicago, Illinois
ACTIVISTS, INDIVIDUALS, AND GROUPS MENTIONED: Suburban O'Hare Commission; Park Ridge Citizens O'Hare Council
The Chicago Tribune reports that noise data accumulated by the Suburban O'Hare Commission over the last three years has not been properly analyzed, causing continuing disagreements between O'Hare International Airport and its surrounding communities over noise remedies and who qualifies for them.
According to the article, the city of Chicago spent $4 million on a stationary noise monitoring system to study the noise levels in the suburban communities surrounding O'Hare. However, the Suburban O'Hare Commission, which opposes expansion by O'Hare, decided to implement its own monitoring system because they didn't trust completely the city's results. The advantage of the SOC's system is that it is not stationary - it consists of six vans that are mounted with instruments that measure noise levels. The vans drive to areas of concern and measure the noise from the source, thereby resulting in a more accurate measurement.
The article reports that the current problem is that the SOC has not analyzed the large quantity of data compiled from this noise monitoring system. The analysis costs money, and currently, most of the SOC dues are going to SOC member communities who are suing O'Hare over expansion plans. The SOC comprises 15 communities surrounding O'Hare.
The article states that the city of Chicago, as a result of its monitoring system, came up with a "noise contour map" that shows which communities are most in need of soundproofing work. The city says that 1999 noise levels overall were one decibel lower than 1997 levels. SOC leaders question the report's accuracy, however.
According to the article, the SOC has not drawn up its own noise contour map, although SOC lawyer Joseph Karaganis stated that the vans' data do indeed show that there is significant noise in areas beyond the city's noise contour map. The contour map threshold is 65 DNL (day-night decibel levels.) The vans measured noise up to 90 DNL in areas beyond the map boundary. One measurement on West Lawrence Avenue in northwest Chicago was over 70 DNL.
The article states that the community of Harwood Heights hoped that SOC data would qualify them for soundproofing. In this case, however, the SOC readings were about the same as the city's, so the community does not qualify for assistance.
Conversely, the article goes on to say that the SOC system allowed Park Ridge to monitor two of its schools to test the noise levels, which resulted in readings of 110 decibels. The city's results had shown a DNL for Park Ridge of only 61.
The article states that Elk Grove Village also believes that the city's readings are too low. They have asked the city to release daily noise event readouts by individual stationary noise monitors. These readouts (L-Max figures) show peak noise levels reached during one single noise event, whereas the city's normal noise reports are only based on averaged readings. However, spokesperson Monique Bond of the Chicago Department of Aviation said that the city could not provide such information to towns because there is too much work involved in compiling the information.
According to the article, SOC members believe that the city does not want to release L-Max readings because the L-Max readings might concur with the SOC van readings. This might qualify more towns for soundproofing help
The article mentions that the SOC has not always been willing to release all of its data, either, in response to a refusal by the city of Chicago to pay for the SOC's monitoring system.
PUBLICATION: Aberdeen Press and Journal
DATE: March 15, 2000
SECTION: Animals: Domestic, Pg.3
DATELINE: Aberdeen, Scotland
The Aberdeen, Scotland Press and Journal reports that plans for a dog boarding kennel at New Pitsgligo have met with resistance from neighbors who are worried about increased traffic and noise.
The article reports that, because of the complaints, the Aberdeenshire Council's Buchan area committee has postponed granting approval for the kennel until they inspect the site. The Aberdeen Council planning chiefs have recommended that the committee approve the project after their inspection.
The article states that, in addition to noise and traffic, residents are worried that the cleanliness of the area would disintegrate and that property values in the neighborhood would drop.
According to the article, the kennel, which will house as many as ten dogs, will be in an old farm building off the Bonneykelly to New Pitsligo road. The applicant is Malcolm Elgey.
The article mentions that five homeowners have filed letters of objection with the Aberdeenshire Council over the proposed kennel. Resident Graeme Leggat is concerned about disposal of dog waste, and the seeming lack of an appropriate outdoor exercise areas for the dogs. Leggat has a farm and is worried that the dogs would be a threat to his farm animals if the dogs somehow escaped. Lastly, he is very concerned that the noise from the dogs will disturb him and his family.
The article goes on to say that the planning department of the Aberdeenshire Council recommends that the project be approved because the kennels would be housed indoors. If noise were to become a problem, planner Dave Scott then recommends that Elgey install roof and wall insulation.
The article states that the Elgey's application will be reviewed again at the upcoming Buchan area committee meeting next month.
PUBLICATION: Bath Chronicle
DATE: March 15, 2000
SECTION: Letters, Pg.28
BYLINE: H Morgan
DATELINE: Bath, England
The Bath Chronicle in England published a letter from a reader who complained about the noise from a drumming group that was collecting for charity on the streets of Bath. The letter is reprinted here in its entirety:
"The only thing bizarre about Cathy McKeown serving notice on Samba Sulis (Chronicle, March 10) is that they were ever allowed to make their horrendous noise anywhere in the city.
Collecting for a charity is not a justification for such noise. Joe Verrechia should consider why the group want to make such noise, knowing that it causes pain to the ears of anyone within 100 yards.
One drum would be bad enough. To be bashing a dozen drums near people's shops and homes amounts to sheer vindictiveness. These anarchistic, self- centred people should realise that others have a right not to have these noises perpetrated on them.
It's a great shame that the Chronicle caption writers chose to bias the caption against the shopkeepers on Pulteney Bridge. Surely victims require more sympathy than perpetrators. It's time the council took control and drove these and other such nuisances off the streets of Bath. Time for our ward councillors to take action to protect the citizens of Bath from such unacceptable and intrusive noise. But we know from past experience they won't."
H MORGAN
Stall Street
Bath
PUBLICATION: Denver Post
DATE: March 15, 2000
SECTION: Denver and The West; Pg. B-02
BYLINE: Ginny Mckibben
DATELINE: Littleton, Colorado
ACTIVISTS, INDIVIDUALS, AND GROUPS MENTIONED: Wayne Sheffield
The Denver Post reports that ever since the Burlington Northern railroad moved some of its tracks 100 feet closer to homes in a Littleton, Colorado neighborhood, the increased noise and vibrations have shaken the houses and disturbed the residents. The tracks were moved to accommodate the Regional Transportation District's (RTD's) new light-rail line along South Santa Fe Drive. A meeting will take place at Littleton City Hall tonight to discuss the issue with railroad and RTD officials.
The article reports that Littleton residents Wayne and Bobbie Sheffield have complained about their house shaking. Wayne Sheffield, who is a contractor, stated, "We believe that eventually the vibrations will shift the house. You can't read the computer screen when the trains go by. The nails are popping from the fence and house."
The article mentions that forty residents have signed a petition requesting that RTD do something to lessen the noise. RTD officials are willing to cooperate. RTD representative Scott Reed admits that more trains may be using the tracks, and traveling at higher speeds, than in the past. From 1994 to 1996, an environmental impact study was conducted, and the study had concluded that any increase in noise would be within federal guidelines.
According to the article, Littleton City Manager Jim Woods believes that two issues need to be discussed: first, the noise level increase that resulted from the train tracks being relocated; and second, operations changes in the past few years that have increased train traffic and speeds. An expert will also be called in to measure the vibrations.
The article states that the Sheffield's are also irritated because the train tracks were elevated between three and ten feet when they were moved closer to the homes. In addition, new switching structures are now visible from the homes' back yards.
PUBLICATION: Derby Evening Telegraph
DATE: March 15, 2000
SECTION: Environment: Noise, Pg.21
DATELINE: Derby, England
The Derby Evening Telegraph reports that residents in Belper, England have lodged letters of complaint against a local pub because of excessive noise.
According to the article, the pub has applied for a public entertainment license. The Amber Valley Borough Council licensing committee will visit the pub to investigate the complaints before granting the license.
PUBLICATION: Manawatu Standard
DATE: March 15, 2000
SECTION: News; Local; Pg. 2
BYLINE: John Myers
DATELINE: Palmerston North, New Zealand
The Manawatu Standard reports that police in Palmerston North, New Zealand, do not believe that they should be dealing with complaints about loud music coming from vehicles as they drive through the city. They would rather see the city council deal with the problem.
According to the article, a group of motel owners had asked the city council last October to find an effective way to deal with "boom-box" vehicle noise.
The article states that city road manager Graeme Tong believes that 1976 traffic regulations that deal with excessive vehicle noise include loud music. He supports the Land Transport Safety Authority's decision that city police could enforce the regulations.
The article goes on to say that police city manager Inspector Dave Scott believes that enforcement of the regulation falls under the city council's jurisdiction.
PUBLICATION: The Daily Telegraph (London)
DATE: March 18, 2000
SECTION: Pg. 10
BYLINE: by Roger Highfield and David Derbyshire
DATELINE: London, England
The Daily Telegraph reports that an intrusive noise from the audience during a speech delivered by the Princess Royal was thought to be throat-clearing, but it was actually an electronic noise coming from a science exhibit.
The article reports that the Princess Royal, during a speech she was delivering to help launch National Science Week, needed to stop talking in the middle of her delivery because of the apparently continuous and bothersome sound of throat-clearing coming from the audience.
The article states that it was later discovered that the noise was not throat clearing at all, but rather, an electronic noise emanating from a science display exhibited by drug company Glaxo Wellcome. Apparently an exhibit meant to demonstrate asthma inhalers had started making electronic "coughing" noises behind the podium while children were pressing the exhibit's buttons.
The article reports that the Princess is the president of the British Association for the Advancement of Science, the organizer of Science Week.
PUBLICATION: Associated Press
DATE: March 18, 2000
SECTION: State And Regional
DATELINE: San Jose, California
The Associated Press State and Local Wire reports that Larry Ellison, head of Oracle Corporation, has been issued a temporary restraining order preventing his jet from landing at San Jose International Airport between the airport's curfew hours of 11:30 P.M. and 6:30 A.M. The city has warned Ellison more than once during the past eighteen months that he has allegedly violated the curfew. The city's attorneys allege that Ellison has violated "the city's noise ordinance, breached the terms of his airport lease, and engaged in unfair business practices by breaking the rules." City Attorney Rick Doyle said that the issue will now be resolved in the courts.
According to the article, Ellison filed a civil suit in January, claiming that the city's noise ordinance is unreasonable. He commented that his $38 million Gulfstream V has been certified to operate at 75,000 pounds, a weight that is within the limits of the airport's curfew rules. His plane, however, sometimes weighs up to 90,500 pounds, which is over the limit. Ellison also claims that many aircraft that weigh less than his are considerably noisier than his airplane.
The article reports that Ellison says he is exempt from the curfew. In addition, Edward P. Davis Jr., Ellison's attorney, believes that the city's "noise regulation [is] not based on noise."
The article states that attorneys for the city of San Jose are waiting to implement the order in case Ellison agrees to a hearing date in federal court within 60 days.
PUBLICATION: Calgary Herald
DATE: March 18, 2000
SECTION: Travel; T3
BYLINE: Alfred Borcover
DATELINE: Calgary, Alberta, Canada
The Calgary Herald reports that there is a French hotel chain, started in 1968, that promotes a noise-free stay for guests. The chain, based in Paris, is known as Relais du Silence, or Silencehotel. Its 302 independently-owned hotels are located in 12 European countries, and there is now one in Canada: the Domain of Killen in Haliburton, Ontario.
The article states that Henri Schaff is president of France, Inc., a company located in Arlington, Texas, which represents Relais du Silence in the United States. He describes the chain as offering "two-, three- and four-star properties, set mainly in the countryside." Double rooms range from $80 to $180 U.S. dollars. All of the hotels are privately owned, assuring guests of more personal service.
PUBLICATION: Coventry Evening Telegraph
DATE: March 18, 2000
SECTION: News; Pg. 5
BYLINE: Paula Hall
DATELINE: Coventry, England
The Coventry Evening Telegraph reports that Coventry nurses have implemented a Night Noise Standard to help ensure that patients get a good night's rest. They believe that patients will recover faster in a quiet, less stressful environment. Some of the noise-control measures include having the nurses wear soft-soled shoes and speak as quietly as possible. Other efforts will include oiling squeaky trolley wheels and offering patients earplugs if they are disturbed by snorers. Patients who disturb others may be moved to a side room.
According to the article, staff will try to answer phone calls and turn off alarm bells quickly. They may try to reduce kitchen noise by offering patients overnight snacks that could be kept in coolers or would be simple, such as biscuits and toast.
The article states that Janet Monkman, Coventry director of nursing and quality, believes it was important to listen to patients' noise concerns. Coventry's super-hospital was designed with noise reduction in mind, such as locating kitchens in areas where the noise would not affect others.
PUBLICATION: Montreal Gazette
DATE: March 18, 2000
SECTION: Auto Salon; F1
BYLINE: Len Henry
DATELINE: Montreal, Canada
The Montreal Gazette reports automotive questions from readers that are answered in a column by The Car Doctor. A reader, S. Cournoyer of Beloeil, complains about an odd Traction Control System (TCS) noise in his/her Honda Odyssey.
The reader reports, according to the article, having purchased a Honda Odyssey 2000 in September 1999. During cold and dry weather in January, the ABS light came on and did not go off. The dealer replaced one rear-wheel sensor. Soon after that repair was made, the van's TCS began to make a different noise. It had previously sounded like the ABS noise; it now sounds like "a baseball card in the spokes of a bicycle." The reader's mechanic attributes the noise change to worn brake pads. The reader wonders whether he/she can tell if the TCS is working without listening to the noise or looking to see if the TCS lights on the dashboard are flashing.
The column writer responds that Odyssey brakes are known to be noisy, in particular the 1999 models. The Odyssey 2000 seems to make loud noises when the ABS system is functioning. Dealers can reduce, but not eliminate the noise. They can also attempt to reduce the brake noise. The TCS would make a similar noise when it is operating since the brakes are part of the system. However, the TCS system sounds different than the ABS system because the TCS uses the vehicle's front disc brakes, while the ABS uses the rear drum brakes more often. The TCS uses the front brakes to prevent the wheels from slipping when the vehicle accelerates; the ABS uses the rear brakes for coming to a stop.
The column writer states that when the TCS is working, the wheels should not spin much during acceleration; the reader can manually turn the TCS off and then accelerate in order to compare the difference.
PUBLICATION: The Mirror
DATE: March 18, 2000
SECTION: Sport; Pg. 47
BYLINE: Roy Curtis
DATELINE: England
The Mirror reports that spectators at Old Trafford football matches must remain quiet. Fans have a history of being boisterous at football matches, and think it's not right to have to remain quiet during a game.
The article states that United's Board, in insisting upon quiet, is offending working class fans who fear the matches are turning into an upper-class affair. Board member Alex Ferguson has spoken on behalf of these working class fans who feel that the new breed of more well-to-do attendants are not even interested in the games itself. Instead, they are only attending because it has become a socially prestigious thing to do.
PUBLICATION: Post and Courier
DATE: March 18, 2000
SECTION: B, Pg. 3
BYLINE: Arlie Porter
DATELINE: Charleston, South Carolina
ACTIVISTS, INDIVIDUALS, AND GROUPS MENTIONED: Mary Foisy, Hidden Cove Homeowners Committee
The Charleston, South Carolina Post and Courier reports that a container storage yard in East Cooper generates noise that bothers area residents and may have violated the city noise ordinance. Additionally, the State Ports Authority violated Charleston County law by not receiving appropriate zoning permits before building the yard.
The article reports that Sam Howell, Charleston County attorney, stated that since the county has a history of not having enforced zoning regulations on the Ports Authority as well as other state agencies in the past, it will probably not do so in this case, because the law about the county's jurisdiction over such cases is unclear. He added, however, that the Ports Authority was supposed to have applied for a county zoning permit before building the container storage yard. County Planning Director Bill Miller confirmed that they did not apply for the permit. Howell stated that punishing the Ports Authority for zoning permit violations could involve demanding them to stop operations, and fining them with up to $500 a day for each day of the violation or with 30 days in jail.
According to the article, Ports Authority spokeswoman Anne Moise said that the Ports Authority must adhere to local government regulations. In addition to the possible zoning permit violations, she admitted that the storage yard was also possibly in violation of the county's tree ordinance, but agreed to plant trees if requested. The container storage yard has been built in Mount Pleasant, adjacent to the subdivision of Hidden Cove.
The article reports that many Hidden Cove residents have complained about excessive storage yard noise. In trying to ascertain whether the yard is violating the county noise ordinance, county attorneys discovered that five years ago, the County Council had repealed specific noise standards that had been part of it noise ordinance. The ordinance now only regulates noise in general, without referring to specific noise level limits.
The article states that the Ports Authority is cooperating with the county and with residents to try to reduce the noise. The yard currently operates seven days a week from 7:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M. Suggested solutions to the noise have included constructing a berm and a sound wall between the storage container yard and the back property lines of residents of Hidden Cove.
According to the article, state laws have changed over the past few years and now the county's power have become somewhat clearer. Nonetheless, Moise feels there has been much confusion in this case.
The article states that the Hidden Cover Homeowners Committee has been spearheading the complaints. Member Mary Foisy stated that the noise volume has prevented her from being able to sell her home. She believes that the county should have required the storage container yard to install buffers when the facility was built. Another member stated, "We just want our neighborhood back to where we have our quality of life again and can live here peacefully."
PUBLICATION: San Diego Union-Tribune
DATE: March 18, 2000
SECTION: Auto; Page Wheels-3
BYLINE: Tom and Ray Magliozzi
DATELINE: San Diego, California
The San Diego Union Tribune's "Car Talk" Column contains a question by a reader who hears a whining noise coming from the rear of his minivan. "Car Talk's" Tom and Ray Magliozzi address his concerns.
In the column, the reader, Mike, states that he has a 1995 extended version Ford Aerostar that has 85,000 miles on it. Over the last 10,000 miles, the minivan has developed a "moderately high-pitched whine that seems to be coming from the rear of the vehicle." The noise begins when the vehicle reaches about 35 mph, and gets increasingly louder the faster he travels, until he reaches highway speeds. Then, when he takes his foot off the accelerator, the noise stops. When he places his foot down, the noise comes back. He wants to know what the noise is and how he can fix it.
According to the column, Ray recommends either replacing the minivan's differential or turning up the radio. Tom agrees that the whining sound is a classic symptom of a problem with the differential. He adds that it will continue to get louder, but that it can continue that way without breaking down for years.
The column states that Tom recommends that Mike check the oil level in the differential. If it's low, then Mike should fill it up, and that will slow down the rate of the differential's deterioration. He then recommends trying a bottled additive or junking the Aerostar.
PUBLICATION: Pittsburgh Po