City Index

Calabasas, California, "Another California Community Restricts Leaf Blowers" (Feb. 20, 1998). The Ventura County Star reports that Calabasas California has joined hosts of other California communities in restricting the use of gas powered leaf blowers.

Calgary, Alberta, Canada, "Calgary Should Crack Down on Noisy Motocycles" (Jun. 8, 1997). The Calgary Herald printed the following letter-to-the-editor from Calgary, Alberta resident Thuy Nguyen regarding noise from motorcycles:

Calgary, Alberta, Canada, "Canadian Residents Protest Noisy Teen Smokers" (Oct. 31, 1997). The Calgary Herald of Calgary, Alberta, reports that residents of a southeast Calgary neighborhood will seek legal advice in an effort to rid their lawns and streets of hundreds of noisy teen smokers.

Calgary, Alberta, Canada, "Calgary Airport Authority Undertakes a Study Looking at Building a New Runway" (Apr. 24, 1998). The Calgary Herald reports that the Calgary Airport Authority in Calgary, Alberta, Canada has decided to undertake a study looking at the possibility of building a new north-south runway parallel to the existing main runway in order to accommodate increasing air traffic at Calgary International Airport. Meanwhile, a $30-million office complex is being proposed near the airport. Many members of communities in the northeast are happy about the proposed expansion, and say residents near the airport are already used to jet noise, according to the article.

Calgary, Alberta, Canada, "Canadian Columnist Writes Fairy Tale About Amplified Concerts in Calgary" (Apr. 21, 1998). The Calgary Herald printed an editorial regarding a recent city council decision in Calgary, Alberta to allow festival promoters to apply for exemptions from the noise bylaw to hold performances past 10 pm at Prince's Island Park. The editorial writer tells a fairy tale about the situation, with two possible outcomes: one in which the merchants encourage the loud concerts and the residents shun their businesses, and another in which large concerts are banned from the park, while several smaller concerts are allowed, and everyone is happy.

Calgary, Alberta, Canada, "Canadian Resident Considers Launching Petition Opposing Second Runway at Calgary Airport" (Apr. 25, 1998). The Calgary Herald reports that the Calgary (Canada) Airport Authority voted Wednesday that a study be conducted to look at the feasibility of building a second north-south runway at Calgary International Airport to deal with increasing air traffic. In response, Fred Waterman, a Castleridge resident, said he may launch a petition drive opposing construction of the runway.

Calgary, Alberta, Canada, "Columnist Ridicules Noise Rules Governing Canadian Folk Fest" (Jul. 22, 1998). The Calgary Sun printed an editorial that ridicules the noise rules governing the upcoming Calgary Folk Music Festival on Prince's Island in Calgary, Alberta. The columnist says the folk festival is singled out by residents in upscale neighborhoods, who have made local officials impose unnecessarily stringent regulations.

Calgary, Alberta, Canada, "Excemption to City's Noise Bylaws Granted for Calgary Folk Festival; Appeal Made by Community Association is Defeated" (Jun. 19, 1998). The Calgary Herald reports that the city's chief bylaw enforcement officer, Earl MacLeod, granted a temporary exemption to the city's noise bylaw permitting Calgary Folk Festival to play music until 11 p.m. on Friday, July 24 and Saturday, July 25. On Thursday, July 23 and Sunday 26, the music must shut down at 10 p.m.

Calgary, Alberta, Canada, "Canadian Folk Festival Music Permit is Appealed by Residents Who Want No Late-Night Music" (Jun. 12, 1998). The Calgary Herald reports that residents in the Hillhurst-Sunnyside area of Calgary, Alberta are appealing a festival permit of the Calgary Folk Festival that allows musicians to perform after 10 p.m. on two nights next month at Prince's Island Park, a festival site. The article says that the city waived its own noise bylaw to allow the music to play until 11 p.m. on Friday, July 24 and Saturday, July 25. The appeal will be heard before the city's license appeal board next Thursday, the article notes.

Calgary, Alberta, Canada, "Canadian Company Markets Noise Pollution Solution in Europe" (Mar. 9, 1998). Canada NewsWire Ltd. reports that John Barrett, President of ATCO Noise Management Ltd., announced the opening of the company's new branch office in Staffordshire, England.

Calgary, Alberta, CANADA, "Calgary Bylaws Prevent New Noisy Businesses" (May 12, 1998). The Calgary Herald in Alberta, Canada, reports the city's council approved new bylaws to regulate noise from bars and restaurants near residential areas. The article goes on to point out that the new bylaws don't govern existing facilities.

Calgary, Alberta, Canada, "Canadian Airport Expansion Doesn't Address "Community Well-Being," Columnist Believes" (Jun. 1, 1998). The Calgary Herald printed an editorial by Ed McGowan, the former vice-president of the Inglewood Community Association, regarding the proposed expansion of the Calgary Airport in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. The writer argues that the Calgary Airport Authority does not live up to its mission statement to provide airport services in conjunction with "community well-being." The editorial says the proposed expansion will increase aircraft noise in communities that are already under severe stress from the noise.

Calgary, Alberta, Canada, "Plan to Move Concert Stage Only Moves the Noise, Doesn't Solve Problem, Say Calgary, Alberta, Residents" (Sep. 17, 1998). The Calgary Herald reports some Calgary, Alberta, residents believe a proposed permanent stage at the west end of Prince's Island Park would only direct noise away from one location and bother residents in another area.

Calgary, Alberta, Canada, "French Hotel Chain Promotes Quiet for Guests" (Mar. 18, 2000). 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.

Calgary, Alberta, Canada, "Reviewer Please With New Nissan Ultra" (Mar. 17, 2000). 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.

Calgary, British Columbia, "Residents Distressed by Outdoor Dinner Parties Decide to Take Action" (Aug. 14, 1998). Calgary Herald reports that a group of residents are upset about the late-night noise emulating from the Cross House Garden Café in Calgary, British Columbia. They say the outdoor parties are ruining the quiet tranquility of the community and are circulating a petition that requests the city to withhold permission for the garden tents to go up each summer.

Calgary, Canada, "Calgary Rail Yard Should Not Create Noise Problem at Nearby General Hospital" (Aug. 5, 1999). The Calgary Herald reports that a rail yard and repair shop -- which will be located within 600 feet of the General Hospital in Calgary -- should not create a noise problem. Repairs will be made inside, and whistles will not need to be blown when trains are shunting.

Calgary, Canada, "Calgary, Canada Company Creates Noise Reduction Materials for Industry From Steel Instead of Traditional Concrete" (Aug. 20, 1999). The Calgary Herald reports on a Calgary company called ATCO Noise Management Ltd. that helps industry quiet its operations. Their steel-based products are catching on in Europe and elsewhere around the world, where they have developed 25 types of "industrial noise -reduction materials used in the construction of various buildings," and have "virtually corner[ed] the market for "turn-key" companies that do all three aspects of noise reduction -- from engineering to supplying materials, on-site construction and field testing."

Calimesa, California, "Calif. Town Considers Off-Road Vehicle Ordinance; Meanwhile, Posts City Property and Increases Enforcement of Noise Ordinance" (Mar. 2, 1999). The Press-Enterprise reports the City Council in Calimesa, California, is considering adopting an off-road vehicle ordinance in response to residents' complaints of noise and other related disturbances.

Calvert and St. Marys Counties, Maryland, "Maryland Navy Base Proposes More Flights; Public Makes Few Comments at Hearing" (Jun. 14, 1998). The Washington Post reports that the Patuxent River Naval Air Station in St. Marys County, Maryland wants to expand its flight operations. Officials at the base held the first of four public hearings on the proposal Wednesday, drawing a crowd of about 50 people. The meeting didn't provoke much comment or controversy, the article says.

Camarillo, California, "Airport is a Top Concern for Candidates of a California City Council Race" (Feb. 10, 1997). The Los Angeles Times reports that a political race for a city council seat in Camarillo, California has all three candidates taking a stand on airport noise. The issues at hand is a proposal to change the former Navy airfield at Point Mugu into an airport which offers commercial flights.

Camarillo, California, "Residents Opposed to Baseball Stadium in Neighborhood; Noise, Bright Lights and Quality of Life Issues" (Nov. 29, 1997). The Ventura County Star reports residents near Oxnard College are disputing a report released this week that says minor league baseball at the college would not have a significant impact on nearby neighborhoods. Residents are concerned about noise, pollution, and bright lights.

Camarillo, California, "California Aviation Commission Wants Potential Homebuyers Warned About Airport Noise" (Nov. 14, 1997). The Ventura County Star reports that on Nov. 6, the Ventura County (California) Aviation Advisory Commission voted 4-3 against a proposed residential development near the Camarillo Airport. The commissioners said they wanted to ensure that all potential homebuyers are warned about the noise from planes flying over their neighborhood.

Camarillo, California, "Two California Environmental Groups File Lawsuit to Block Golf Course and Amphitheater" (Oct. 21, 1997). The Los Angeles Times reports that the Environmental Defense Center and the California Native Plant Society have filed a lawsuit against the Ventura County, California to stop a golf course and a 16,000-seat amphitheater from being built at the 320-acre Camarillo Regional Park. Members of the group believe the environmental study of the project's impacts is inadequate and doesn't fully address the problems the project would cause related to air quality, noise, traffic, wetlands, and biological habitat.

Camarillo, California, "Minor CA Baseball Club Faces Lawsuit Over Noise and Traffic Concerns at College Field" (Jan. 21, 1998). The Los Angeles Times reports that the Pacific Suns -- a minor league team that wants to play at Oxnard College -- will have to deal with lawsuits that say noise and traffic will be worsened by their presence. College trustees have already approved their request to play there.

Camarillo, California, "Neighbors Afraid Proposed Gas Station/Car Wash in Camarillo, California Will Bring More Traffic and Noise" (Jan. 5, 1998). The Ventura County Star reports that American Oil Co. wants to build a gasoline station and car wash in Camarillo, California, but neighbors fear the project will increase traffic and create noise.

Camarillo, California, "The Expansion of Camarillo Airport Prompts Editorials Regarding Expected the Expected Increase in Aircraft Noise" (Jun. 18, 1998). The Ventura County Star published the following two editorials regarding the increased airplane noise expected with the expansion at Camarillo Airport. The author of the first editorial sees the expansion as a "legitimate business purpose" and welcomes the noise it brings. The author of the second editorial finds that a decline in land values and loss of tranquility in the entire west end of the county, "is a high price to pay for eight, or even 80, new employment opportunities".

Camarillo, California, "Proposal to Land More Planes at California Airport Has Some Calling for More Noise Study" (Jun. 13, 1998). The Ventura County Star reports that a sub-committee of the Aviation Advisory Commission in Camarillo, California reviewed a proposal Thursday to allow additional Boeing 727 planes to land at the Camarillo Airport. Channel Islands Aviation wants to land one or two Boeing 727s per week in order to refurbish them and increase their cargo capacity. In addition, the company wants to build a large hangar to perform the retrofitting work. The plan must be approved by the Board of Supervisors and the city of Camarillo, and now will move to the full Aviation Advisory Commission, the article notes.

Camarillo, California, "Resident Opposes Larger Jets at California's Camarillo Airport, Citing Existing Noise Problems" (Sep. 9, 1998). The Ventura County Star published the following letter to the editor about the existing noise jet noise problem at Camarillo Airport from resident Al Knuth of Camarillo, California. Knuth opposes proposals to allow larger jets at the airport. Knuth writes:

Camarillo, California, "Camarillo, California Residents Say No to Noisy Daycare Facility" (Apr. 3, 2000). The Ventura County Star reports that some residents in Camarillo, California are opposed to a KinderCare Learning Center that wants to open in their neighborhood. They are concerned that the childcare facility will bring more traffic and noise to their community.

Camas, Oregon, "Camas, Oregon Resident Criticizes Noise Complainants Who Knowingly Moved Near Portland International Airport" (Nov. 7, 1999). The Columbian prints several letters to the editor, one of which criticized residents near Portland International Airport for moving near to noise and then complaining about it.

Cambridge, Massachusetts, "Bells in Harvard Square Strike Discord with Neighbors in Cambridge" (Jun. 14, 1998). The Boston Globe reports that the bells at St. Paul Church in Harvard Square though silent for a half-century are now refurbished and chiming every quarter hour. The sound is pleasantly reminiscent to some, but annoying to many others.

Cambridge, Massachusetts, "Resident of Boston's Cambridge Neighborhood Maintains that Curfew on 'Through-Trucks' Will Keep Local Streets Quieter" (Apr. 25, 1999). The Boston Globe prints a letter from Thomas Bracken, a member of the Truck Traffic Advisory Committee in Boston's Cambridge neighborhood. Bracken says that a proposed ban on the use of local Cambridge streets by late-night through-truckers with no local destination will quiet the streets; he holds that opponents in Belmont who believed the curfew would increase noise in their town are mistaken, and that the ban will benefit all communities within Boston.

Cambridgeshire, England, "Residents Oppose Turning Vacant RAF Airfield into International Airport" (Mar. 16, 1998). The Press Association Newsfile reports that thousands of angry residents are fighting plans to turn an abandoned airfield in rural England into a 24 hour international airport.

Camden, Maine, "Bed and Breakfast Owner Pressures Camden, Maine to Modify Noise Ordinance After Construction Noise at 6 a.m. Wakes His Guests" (Aug. 4, 1999). The Bangor Daily News reports that a Camden, Maine Bed and Breakfast owner wants the town to change its noise ordinance to include early morning construction on private property. He says street work in the summer meant jackhammers as early as 6 a.m. , and meant guests leaving earlier than planned. Town officials say that disturbing noises aren't always loud enough in decibels to violate the noise ordinance, but that police responding to a complaint would have agreed that a jackhammer at 6 a.m. was unreasonable.

Camden, Maine, "Camden, Maine Selectmen May Revise Noise Ordinance to Include Construction Noise" (Aug. 17, 1999). The Bangor Daily News reports that when selectmen were unsure of whether their noise ordinance could be interpreted to cover construction noise, they asked the town attorney to research the question.

Camden, Maine, "Camden, Maine Residents to Decide on Skateboard Park With Quiet in Mind" (Mar. 24, 2000). According to the Bangor Daily News, residents in Camden, Maine will decide on whether to build a skateboard park for young people and where that site will be.

Canberra, Australia, "Australian Resident Advises Building an Airport Between Sydney and Canberra" (Oct. 20, 1997). The Canberra Times printed the following letter-to-the-editor from Dr. Colin Doy, a Kaleen resident, regarding a proposal to build an airport between Sydney and Canberra to solve the problem of noise and development at the Canberra Airport:

Canberra, Australia, "Australian Green Party, City, and Residents Association Unite to Oppose Aircraft Noise" (Oct. 11, 1997). The Canberra Times reports Australia's ACT Green Party, the Queanbeyan City Council, and the Jerrabomberra Residents' Association have formed a coalition to campaign together against the disruption of increased noise from the expanding Canberra Airport. The article says the formation of the coalition was encouraged by the statement of ACT Urban Services Minister Trevor Kaine that residents concerned about the noise could move.

Canberra, Australia, "Australian Tourism Minister is Condemned for Insensitive Comment on Airport Noise" (Oct. 10, 1997). The Canberra Times reports that Australian Tourism Minister Trevor Kaine suggested yesterday on a radio interview that residents in Jerrabomberra, a community near the Canberra Airport, who are disturbed by aircraft noise should buy property elsewhere. Yesterday, local Members and the Queanbeyan Mayor angrily condemned Kaine's remarks.

Canberra, Australia, "Transport Minister Criticizes NSW Government Opposition to 2nd Sydney Airport" (Mar. 23, 1998). The Australian General News from the AAP Newsfeed reports federal Transport Minister Mark Vaile accused the New South Wales government of mounting a cheap fear campaign against a second Sydney Airport. Vaile said new flight paths will distribute noise more evenly over Sydney.

Canberra, Australia, "Debate Rages Over Options for Second Airport in Sydney, Australia" (Aug. 17, 1999). The AAP Newsfeed reports that Canberra, Australia politicians are divided between several alternatives that would increase air capacity near Sydney. A new airport is proposed just west of Sydney, but some are opposed because of the dangers of potential noise and environmental pollution. A second option is to make improvements at a nearby Bankstown airport that could then take some of Sydney Airport's flights. A third option would install a very fast train (VFT) link to a distant airport, but most say that would be unfeasible.

Canberra, Australia, "Resident's Letter Urges Action Against Proposed Upgrades at Australia's Canberra Airport" (Feb. 16, 1999). The Canberra Times published a letter from Murray May, a resident of Hackett, Australia, urging residents to take action about proposed upgrades at Canberra Airport to preserve property values and their quality of life. Mr. Hackett writes:

Canberra, Australia, "Representative in Canberra, Australia Proposes Independent "Aviation Noise Ombudsman" to Investigate Noise and Pollution Complaints, Instead of the Current System of Complaining to Biased Airline Representatives" (Sep. 20, 1999). AAP Newsfeed reports that an Australian legislator has proposed an independent "aviation noise ombudsman" as an alternative to the current system that sends complaints to biased airline officials.

Canberra, Australia, "Yearly Car Race in Canberra, Australia Draws Criticism for Loud Noise" (Apr. 5, 2000). The Canberra Times in Australia reports a controversy over noise levels from a V8 Supercar race to be held in June.

Canberra, Australia, "Australian Combat Submarines Becoming Less Noisy" (Apr. 14, 2000). The AAP Newsfeed (Australia) reports that the Collins-Class submarine project is finally showing good results. The noise problems that have plagued the Australian submarines are now better under control, meaning that the submarine combat system is closer to being considered combat ready.

Canberra, Australia, "Residents Near Canberra, Australia Complain About Racetrack Noise" (Apr. 14, 2000). The Canberra Times in Australia reports that residents near the Fairbairn Park car racetrack have complained repeatedly about high noise levels to the ACT's Environment Management Authority, but have not received satisfactory action.

Canberra, Australia, "Alternatives to Airport Noise in Australia Easy To Do" (Feb. 2, 2000). The Canberra Times printed this letter to the newspaper regarding airport noise and possible alternative solutions. The letter is printed in its entirety.

Canberra, Australia area, "Australian Residents Organize to Oppose Canberra Airport Expansion" (Mar. 26, 1998). The Canberra Times reports that residents in Jerrabomberra, Australia are preparing to mount a fight over aircraft noise and a major expansion at the Canberra Airport. The article notes that several days ago, the airport was sold to a local consortium for $66.5 million, and with a commitment by the new owners to spend $57 million on upgrades in the next 10 years. In addition, the article notes, there are plans to expand the airport to full international status before the Sydney Olympics.

Cannes, France, "French Officials Say Pollution-Reduction to Comply with Kyoto Conference Global Warming Protocol Should Be Coupled with Noise Reduction" (Nov. 22, 1999). Aviation Week and Space Technology reports that French environmental officials believe that in working towards the carbon dioxide limits set by the U.N.'s global warming conference in Kyoto, researchers should also prioritize noise reduction. Turbines are 40% quieter than they were in the 1970s, and many further gains in noise reduction will result from work on non-engine components.

Canterbury, New Hampshire, "Residents Angry About Proposed Expansion of New Hampshire Speedway" (Nov. 11, 1997). The Union Leader reports that a public forum was held last night regarding the expansion of the New Hampshire International Speedway near Canterbury, New Hampshire. The forum was attended by more than 100 people, and issues were raised about the effect of the expansion on the largely rural small communities in the area. The article notes that most of the complaints centered around traffic, noise, and changing the character of the surrounding towns.

Canterbury, New Hampshire, "Lawyer for Canterbury, New Hampshire Residents to Argue Against Expansion of New Hampshire International Speedway in County Court" (Dec. 5, 1999). The Union Leader reports that tomorrow, the lawyer for a group of Canterbury, New Hampshire residents will make his arguments against the expansion of the New Hampshire International Speedway in Loudon by 9,000 seats. Residents believe that environmental assessment has not been comprehensive, and that noise is a continual problem even though major events happen only twice a year. Track officials point to a $31,000 study that showed the expansion would create no increase in noise, but residents believe the study was too narrow in scope.

Canterbury, New Hampshire, "Canterbury, New Hampshire Residents Upset by Noisy Racetrack in Nearby Loudon New Hampshire" (May 9, 1999). The Associated Press reports that Canterbury, New Hampshire residents are hearing too much noise from Loudon, New Hampshire's 82,000-seat race car track across the highway. Canterbury, known for their living museum "Shaker Village" which celebrates simplicity and spirituality, is closer to the racetrack than most of Loudon and yet has no official voice with which to protest the noise.

Canton, Massachusetts, "Overnight Construction of High-Speed Rail Service Causes Sleepless Nights for Neighbors in Canton, Massachusetts Who Live Along the Track" (Apr. 1, 1998). The Patriot Ledger reports complaints from sleepless residents about nighttime construction work for the high-speed rail service has prompted a response from Amtrak and town officials. The construction which began March 16 has occurred between High Street and the Canton Viaduct in Canton Massachusetts.

Canton, North Carolina, "Speedway Builder Threatens to Pull Out of Western NC When Third County Imposes Racetrack Moratorium over Noise and Traffic" (Mar. 2, 1999). The Asheville Citizen-Times reports a 90-day racetrack moratorium in Haywood County may end plans for a new speedway in Western North Carolina.

Canton, North Carolina, "Speedway Moratorium Overturned in Haywood, NC; Noise Opponents Say County Caved in to Pressure from Fans" (Mar. 16, 1999). The Asheville Citizen-Times reports an embattled speedway project may still happen in Haywood County, North Carolina, now that commissioners have lifted the racetrack moratorium.

Cardiff, England, "Opera Lover Silenced in England" (Mar. 10, 1998). The Daily Mail reports that neighbors in Cardiff, England are in dispute over loud opera music.

Carlsbad, California, "McClellan-Palomar Airport in Carlsbad, California to Be Focus of Noise Study" (Mar. 16, 2000). 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.

Carmarthen, Wales, "Amusement Arcade in Wales Will Likely Be Denied Permission to Relocate Because of Fears of Young People Making Noise" (Apr. 4, 2000). The South Wales Evening Post reports that businesses in Carmarthen, Wales are objecting to an amusement arcade that would like to relocate to an area that falls within the town's conservation area, and which would bring noise and undesirable clientele to the neighborhood.

Carmarthenshire, Wales, UK, "Noise Limits Placed on Dairy Herd by Town Planners in the UK" (Mar. 5, 1999). Farming News reports a local planning authority in Wales has placed noise restrictions on a herd of cows as a condition of a permit for a new diary building.

Carmel, Indiana, "Carmel, Indiana's New Noise Ordinance Includes Stiffer Fines and Specific Noise Limits" (Aug. 4, 1999). The Indianapolis Star reports that Carmel, Indiana has passed a new noise ordinance that includes fines ranging from $250 to $2,500; it forbids 90 decibels as measured from six feet away, and any audible noise from forty feet away. Officers will respond to noise complaints armed with decibel meters and tape measures. Some council members were worried that the stricter rules were getting into "government overkill" mode.

Carmel, Indiana, "New Noise Ordinance in Carmel, Indiana Imposes Stiff Fines for Loud Car Stereos" (Jul. 16, 1999). The Indianapolis News reports that a new noise ordinance has been proposed in Carmel, Indiana's City Council that impose stiff fines on noise such as that from loud car stereos. Fines will range from $250 to $2500. Common household lawn and garden equipment will be exempt from 7 AM to 10 PM, as well as approved gatherings and celebrations. Violations will include sound heard from forty feet away or sound measured at 90 decibels or above at 6 feet from the source.

Carmel, Indiana, "New Ordinance in Carmel, Indiana Aimed to Quiet Nighttime Noise" (Jul. 21, 1999). The Indianapolis Star reports that a new noise ordinance in Carmel, Indiana is aimed at reducing noise in the community. Problems in the community include loud car stereos, barking dogs, and early morning garbage trucks. After the ordinance is passed, noise of over 90 decibels as measured 6 feet from the source will be forbidden between 10 PM and 7 AM, except for a few exemptions. Fines will range from $250 to $2500.

Carmel, Indiana, "Carmel, Indiana Residents Doubt 10-Foot-Wall Will Effectively Cut Noise From Library's Air Conditioner" (Jul. 28, 1999). The Indianapolis News reports that Carmel, Indiana residents who live near the library's noisy air conditioner don't believe that the proposed ten-foot wall is high enough to effectively block the noise. The library will also apply sound-absorbing material to the wall and other surrounding walls, as well as reducing nighttime operation. Library officials maintain that moisture issues required noisy nighttime operation before now, and also say that the wall can not be built higher since the chiller needs access to a certain amount of air.

Carmel, Indiana, "New Carmel,Indiana Library Popular With Residents, Though Building's Air-Conditioner Noise Poses Problems" (Mar. 16, 2000). 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.

Carmichael, California, "California Residents Protest Antennas on High School Campuses Because of Noise" (Mar. 26, 2000). An article in the Sacramento Bee reported that the proposal to place wireless antennas on two 85-foot-high light standards at a local high school has won support from the Carmichael Community Planning Advisory Council but not from some of the neighbors.

Carnegie, Pennsylvania, "Pennsylvania Community Rejects Playground" (Feb. 18, 1998). The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports that neighbors in Carnegie, Pennsylvania are fighting a playground they say would bring noise to the community.

Carnegie, Pennsylvania, "PA Company Granted Variance for Earlier Operation Hours" (Mar. 11, 1998). The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports the Carnegie zoning hearing board has given approval to a drywall company to operate earlier than allowed by borough law, but the board says it will revoke the variance if delivery trucks disturb neighbors.

Carolina Beach, North Carolina, "NC Town Amends Noise Ordinance, Debates Purchase of Noise Meters" (Apr. 15, 1999). The Morning Star (Wilmington, NC) reports the Carolina Beach, North Carolina, town council took steps Tuesday night to eliminate disparities in its noise ordinance.

Caroline, Alberta, Canada, "Local Residents in Caroline, Alberta Fear Noise Pollution from New Processing Plant" (Aug. 1, 1998). Calgary Herald reports that about 75 people from Caroline, Alberta, attended a public meeting Thursday to express their worries about noise pollution from a $259 million processing plant. The Imperial Oil Ltd. proposes to build the plan just 10 kilometres from Caroline, and would extract ethane, propane, butane and other liquids from natural gas on site.

Carroll, Maryland, "Maryland Residents Seek Noise Relief in Court from Popular Gun Club" (Mar. 11, 1999). The Baltimore Sun reports neighbors of a gun club in Carroll County, Maryland, have filed a nuisance suit seeking court-ordered relief from the noise created at the shooting range.

Carrollton, Texas, "Carrollton, Texas Cancels Fireworks Display to Protect Egrets, Still Wary of Unintentional Rookery Destruction Last Year" (Jun. 29, 1999). The Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports that the city of Carrollton, Texas has canceled its annual fireworks show to avoid disturbing egrets at a nearby rookery (a traditional young-raising spot for large numbers of birds). Last year, it was fined $70,000 and paid $126,000 more for wildlife rehabilitation after essentially destroying the rookery while trying to remove large piles of droppings, killing at least 300 birds and injuring hundreds of others.

Carson City, Nevada; Henderson, Nevada, "Nevada City Seeks Funds for Sound Barriers" (Feb. 21, 1997). The Las Vegas Review-Journal reports that city officials from Henderson, Nevada made a pitch Thursday to the Legislature for $30 million for sound barriers along U.S. Highway 515, but a state transportation official said the project is too costly.

Cary, North Carolina, "Editorial Claims FedEx Proposal Will Create Night-time Noise for Residents of Orange and Durham, North Carolina Counties" (Jan. 14, 1998). An editorial in the News and Observer by P. C. Murphy of Chapel Hill, North Carolina wants to make clear two things regarding FedEx's plan for a possible hub at Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU). One, the noise involved is largely night-time noise, with arrivals and departures heaviest between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. and two, noise will affect many area communities, not just Cary, North Carolina.

Cary, North Carolina, "FedEx Possibility at Raleigh Airport Puts Cary Town Council and Chamber of Commerce on Opposite Sides" (Mar. 20, 1998). The News and Observer (Raleigh, NC) reports divisions are loud and clear in the town of Cary over the possible location of a Federal Express hub at Raleigh-Durham International Airport.

Casitas Springs, California, "Round-the-Clock Construction Work to Quake-Proof a Dam in Casitas Springs, California Is Irritating Neighbors With Noise" (Dec. 1, 1999). The Los Angeles Times reports that round-the-clock construction on a dam in Casitas Springs, California is causing noise that is disturbing residents. The project was supposed to include a network of flood-warning sirens along the river to give residents time to evacuate in the case of a dam failure, but the local fire marshall is upset that the network is not fully in place. Work crews have installed several measures that will reduce the danger of a wall of water: "wells that suck destabilizing water from beneath the dam, and a berm the size of an office building to act as a doorstop to prevent the dam's collapse."

Castleton, Vermont, "Vermont's Castleton State College Proposes 5-Point Guidelines to Reduce Noise from Parties" (Dec. 6, 1999). The Associated Press State and Local Wire reports that a Noise Abatement Committee established at Castleton State College in Vermont has proposed a 5-point plan to reduce noise from off-campus parties. Residents and neighborhood organizations like the plan, but say it is too soon to know if it will work.

Catasauqua, Pennsylvania, "Pennsylvania Airport Authority Seizes Land Planned for Residential Development" (Sep. 18, 1997). The Morning Call reports that the Lehigh-Northampton Airport Authority has seized 107 acres of land by eminent domain in Catasauqua, Pennsylvania, effectively killing plans for a 262-home residential development that was being considered by the town Planning Commission. In seizing the land, the authority also may have saved three heavily used baseball diamonds, which were also being considered for development. Now, Catasauqua's mayor says he will ask the airport whether more sports fields could be built on the seized land, which the airport says it has no plans to develop.

Cave Creek, Arizona, "Neighbors Say Dogs Shatter Quiet and Quality of Life in Arizona Town" (Feb. 20, 1999). The Arizona Republic reports neighbors in an Arizona town say their solitude is being destroyed by the barking of eight dogs from a nearby residence.

Cedarburg, Wisconsin, "Cedarburg, Wisconsin, Will Address Noise Complaints about Automotive Plant" (Sep. 30, 1998). The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports the city of Cedarburg, Wisconsin, is investigating complaints from neighbors about noise at the local Amcast Automotive Plant.

Cedarburg, Wisconsin, "Wisconsin Auto Plant Gets Extension on Noise Abatement Plan While Neighbors Grow Impatient" (Mar. 9, 1999). The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports a Cedarburg, Wisconsin, automotive plant has been given another chance to get in compliance with noise laws, despite urgings by neighbors to start legal proceedings.

Cedarburg, Wisconsin, "Wisconsin Town May Take Legal Action Against Auto Plant for Noise Violations" (Mar. 8, 1999). The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports the Common Council of Cedarburg, Wisconsin, may decide tonight to take legal action against Amcast Automotive for noise violations.

Cedarburg, Wisconsin, "Cedarburg, Wisconsin Automotive Company Gets Last Chance to Comply with Noise Ordinance Before Prosecution" (Sep. 15, 1999). The Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel reports that the Common Council of Cedarburg, Wisconsin is giving Amcast Automotive its last chance to comply with the local noise ordinance before prosecution.

Centerville-Washington Townships, Ohio, "Ohio Citizens Want Solutions to Cargo Plane Noise" (Mar. 5, 1999). The Dayton Daily News reports residents of Centerville-Washington Townships, Ohio, told FAA officials they want relief from night-time cargo plane noise.

Central Elgin County, England, "Proposed Noise Bylaw in Central Elgin County, England Difficult to Draft Because Some Residents Tolerate More Noise Than Others" (Apr. 9, 2000). The London Free Press in England reports that people have varying degrees of tolerance for noise, based partly on where they live, and also on their particular personalities. This makes noise issues difficult to regulate and enforce.

Central Falls, Rhode Island, "City Council Candidates in Rhode Island Town Make Noise a Campaign Issue" (Oct. 24, 1997). The Providence Journal-Bulletin reports that some of the candidates in the November 4 City Council election in Central Falls, Rhode Island say that reducing neighborhood noise would be a priority if they are elected. The article goes on to discuss each candidate in the three wards in which there are challenges to the incumbents, and the issues each candidate believes is important.

Cerritos, California, "Cerritos, California Residents Concerned About Increased Noise, Traffic, and Lighting From Proposed Driving Range" (Jan. 10, 1998). The Los Angeles Times reported that residents near Cerritos College in Cerritos, California are opposing a proposed golf driving range on the grounds that it will create noise, traffic, and lighting problems.

Cetronia, Pennsylvania, "New, Massive Roller Coaster Causes Noise Problems for Pennsylvania Residents" (Jun. 5, 1997). The Morning Call reports that a new roller coaster in Cetronia, Pennsylvania is driving residents crazy. The 200-foot tall roller coaster, called "Steel Force," is located at Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom and is billed as the tallest, fastest coaster in the East. The roller coaster went up only after a long fight by residents, and eventual agreements on noise limitations by the company. Now, about a dozen residents who live nearby have invited South Whitehall commissioners to come to their homes and backyards to hear the noise. The commissioners plan to accept the invitation, and they want officials from Dorney Park officials to do the same.

Chain O' Lakes, Illinois, "Illinois Boaters Object to Lake Noise Ordinance" (Mar. 26, 1999). The Chicago Tribune reports a number of Illinois residents are protesting a new ordinance that regulates noise from boats.

Chain O' Lakes, Illinois, "Deputies in Chain O' Lakes Area of Illinois Will Test Powerboats for Compliance with New Noise Ordinance" (May 19, 1999). Chicago Tribune reports that marine police will be on hand to help powerboaters determine if their boats are within the new noise limits set by Fox Waterway Agency on the Chain O' Lakes near Chicago. The limit is 90 decibels, but passing under the limit does not mean a boater can not receive a ticket this season; it is meant to give boaters an idea of whether they need to take steps to quiet their engines.

Chandler, Arizona, "Arizona Resident Thinks Early Morning School Band Practice is Cause for Lawsuit" (Nov. 21, 1997). The Arizona Republic printed the following letter-to-the-editor from Bob Ederer, a Tempe, Arizona resident, regarding the controversy over early morning marching band practice at the Mountain Pointe High School:

Chandler, Arizona, "Mom of Marching Band Student Castigates Arizona Resident who Complained About Noise" (Nov. 20, 1997). The Arizona Republic printed the following letter-to-the-editor from Christine Eaton, a Phoenix resident, regarding noise from early morning band practice by the Mountain Pointe High School marching band:

Chandler, Arizona, "Arizona Resident Advises Neighbor of High School to Put up With Early Morning Band Practice" (Nov. 26, 1997). The Arizona Republic printed the following letter-to-the-editor from Karen Noble, a Chandler, Arizona resident, regarding the controversy over early morning band practice at a high school in Chandler:

Chandler, Arizona, "Arizona Resident Believes City Ordinance Should be Upheld in Early Morning High School Band Practice Controversy" (Nov. 26, 1997). The Arizona Republic printed the following letter-to-the-editor from Cece West, a Queen Creek, Arizona resident, regarding noise from early morning high school band practice in Chandler:

Chandler, Arizona, "Arizona Resident Says High School Marching Band Should be Required to Abide by Noise Law" (Nov. 25, 1997). The Arizona Republic printed the following letter-to-the-editor from Jeff Suchard, a Phoenix resident, regarding the controversy over early morning band practice of the Mountain Pointe Marching Band:

Chandler, Arizona, "Arizona Resident Who Complained About Early Morning Band Practice is Blasted by Other Residents" (Nov. 24, 1997). The Arizona Republic printed the following letters-to-the-editor from residents in Sun City West, Chandler, Glendale, Ahwatukee, and Phoenix, Arizona responding to a resident who complained about early morning noise from a high school marching band in the Chandler area:

Chandler, Arizona, "Arizona Residents Living Near High School With Early Morning Band Practice Get the Scorn of Band Member Parent" (Nov. 26, 1997). The Arizona Republic printed the following letter-to-the-editor from Phoenix resident Lee Ann Hopper regarding the controversy over early-morning high school band practice in Chandler, Arizona:

Chandler, Arizona, "Columnist in Arizona Warns Residents About Upcoming Aircraft Noise, Saying They Should Put Up With It" (Apr. 21, 1998). The Arizona Republic printed an editorial in which the writer describes a project that will create more noise at the Williams Gateway Airport in Chandler, Arizona starting in July. The project will be conducted by Boeing Co., and will involve refitting more than 500 noisy, supersonic T-38C jets with new avionics gear. The editorial writer says the nearby residents likely will be angry, but insists they should put up with the noise.

Chandler, Arizona, "Arizona Residents Battle Runway Expansion, Fearing Noisier Skies" (Aug. 6, 1998). The Arizona Republic reports residents who live near Arizona's Chandler Municipal Airport object to proposals to lengthen one of the airport's two runways and to rezone most of the land around it for commercial or industrial development.

Chandler, Arizona, "Public Meeting for Neighbors Affected by Aircraft Noise in Chandler, Arizona" (Jul. 30, 1998). The Arizona Republic announced a public meeting July 30, 1998 to give residents a chance to talk about airplane noise and future development at Chandler Airport.

Chandler, Arizona, "Airport Noise Monitored at Twenty Sites in Chandler, Arizona" (Jun. 19, 1998). The Arizona Republic reports that the Sky Harbor International Airport has positioned noise monitors at 20 sites near Phoenix, Arizona. According to the article data collected from the monitors will be used by airport officials to pinpoint particularly noisy aircraft and to better understand planes' flight patterns.

Chandler, Arizona, "Airport Debate in Chandler, Arizona, Pits Residents who Want Quiet Against Supporters of Economic Development" (Nov. 5, 1998). The Arizona Republic reports officials considering accelerating development around the airport in Chandler, Arizona, face opposition from residents who want peace and quiet.

Chandler, Arizona, "Chandler, Arizona, Debates Runway and Heliport Issues at Local Airport" (Nov. 6, 1998). The Arizona Republic reports Chandler, Arizona, officials Thursday debated the future of the city's airport, addressing such issues as the length of runways, relocating a heliport, and jurisdiction over the airport.

Chandler, Arizona, "New Homeowners Complain about Airport Noise; Columnist Says Their Complaints Belong to the Politicians of Chandler, Arizona" (Oct. 6, 1998). The Arizona Republic published the opinion of columnist Art Thomason who says the noise pollution suffered by new homeowners near Williams Gate Airport is far too often regarded without empathy by the public at large. Thomason points the finger at public officials who failed to protect Williams from encroaching developers.

Chapel Hill, North Carolina, "Columnist's Noise Test Finds that Leaf Blowers are as Loud as Dynamite" (Jul. 20, 1997). The Chapel Hill Herald printed a humorous editorial in which the columnist laments the loss of silence in America and bemoans the constitutional right of people to use leaf blowers, which he finds are louder than dynamite.

Chapel Hill, North Carolina, "Proponents of an Airport in North Carolina Only Consider Their Own Convenience" (Jul. 20, 1997). The Chapel Hill Herald printed the following letter-to-the-editor from Peter Aitken, a Chapel Hill resident, regarding noise from the Horace Williams Airport:

Chapel Hill, North Carolina, "Unversity of North Carolina Airport Traffic is Too Noisy, Resident Says" (Jun. 1, 1997). The Chapel Hill Herald printed the following letter-to-the-editor from Peter Aitken, a Chapel Hill resident, regarding noise from the University of North Carolina's Horace Williams Airport:

Chapel Hill, North Carolina, "North Carolina Town Sets Up Committee to Recommend Changes to the Noise Ordinance" (May 29, 1997). The Chapel Hill Herald reports that the Chapel Hill (North Carolina) Town Council voted Tuesday to set up a committee to recommend changes to the town's noise ordinance. The action came in response to Westside resident complaints about the air handling system on the University of North Carolina's Thurston Bowles building. (Ed. note: Chapel Hill residents have also been complaining recently about noise from the University's Horace Williams Airport.) The Town Council said it will invite the university, business owners, and the public to participate on the noise committee, and will ask for neighborhood delegates from Westside, Northside, Chapel Hill's two historic districts, and the Horace Williams Airport vicinity.

Chapel Hill, North Carolina, "North Carolina Officials Look for Site for New Firing Range to Replace Range Near Residents" (Nov. 19, 1997). The News and Observer reports that officials in Chapel Hill, North Carolina are continuing to look for a site for a new firing range, as residential development and complaints have sprung up around the old firing range. In a related matter, commissioners in Wake County voted Monday to build a new firing range near Holly Springs.

Chapel Hill, North Carolina, "Chapel Hill Area Residents Gear Up To Battle Power Plant Renovations" (Jan. 16, 1998). The Chapel Hill News reports that residents of Cameron Glen, North Carolina are fighting the renovations of a local power plant. Only recently completed, the plant's original construction took four years. Residents say they were four years of noise and that the renovations are required due to ill-planning which they are unwilling to support.

Chapel Hill, North Carolina, "Complaints From a Chapel Hill, North Carolina Resident About Noise From a Golf Course Fan Prompted Council Member to Propose Short-Term Fix to Forbid "Continuous" Noise; Long-Term Fix May Tighten Decibel Limits In General" (Aug. 3, 1999). The Chapel Hill Herald reports that noise from a country-club fan designed to circulate air around putting-green grass has caused a council member to propose a short-term solution revision to the ordinance that forbids "continuous" noise. After almost two years of complaints from a resident, the council is considering lower decibel limits, though the decision is several months away.

Chapel Hill, North Carolina, "Chapel Hill, North Carolina Country Club Must Quiet Fans that Were Formerly Exempted by City's Noise Ordinance" (Aug. 26, 1999). The Chapel Hill Herald prints an editorial that comes out strongly in favor of a new noise ordinance that removes exemptions for agricultural equipment. The revisions were made to force the Chapel Hill Country Club to quiet its green-aerating fans that cause 70 decibels of noise at neighbors property lines. Now that the fans will no longer be exempt, they must remain quieter than 60 decibels during the day and 50 decibels at night.

Chapel Hill, North Carolina, "Town Council Gives Preliminary Approval to Noise Ordinance Amendment that Prohibits Agricultural Equipment from Running Continuously; Amendment Targets Golf Course Fans that Disturb a Neighbor" (Aug. 28, 1999). The Chapel Hill Herald reports that the Chapel Hill, North Carolina Town Council has given preliminary approval to a noise ordinance amendment that will prohibit the constantly-running fans at the local country club. The fans are needed to keep cool air moving around greens so the grass won't die, but a resident living nearby said the noise is invasive no matter what the level.

Chapel Hill, North Carolina, "Town Council in Chapel Hill, North Carolina Gives Town Manager 30 Days to Consult With Experts on Noise Controls, Though He Wanted More Time" (May 3, 1999). The Chapel Hill Herald reports that the Town Council in Chapel Hill, North Carolina has given the Town Manager 30 days to consult with an acoustics expert before suggesting changes to a proposed noise ordinance. A committee researching noise limits suggested tightening the limits by 5 decibels; the changes would mean noise must be under 45 decibels at night and 50 decibels during the day. The Town Manager said his department didn't have expertise to determine if this was appropriate "practically, legally, and financially", and asked for several months to consult with an acoustics consultant.

Chapel Hill, North Carolina, "Chapel Hill Councilmember Changes Vote and Allows Golf Course's "Agricultural" Fans to Remain Exempt from Noise Laws; Larger Issues Regarding Noise Ordinance to Be Addressed By Consultant" (Sep. 19, 1999). The Chapel Hill Herald reports that a member of the Chapel Hill, North Carolina Town Council reversed her vote on the issue of whether to allow golf course fans -- used for 'agricultural purposes" -- to remain exempt from the community's 60-decibel noise limit. Although quieter fans have been installed since, other council members say that the exemption should still be removed. The councilwoman who reversed her vote said that since a consultant has been hired to make alterations to the existing ordinance -- which may include a 5 decibel reduction in the noise limit -- "tinkering" in the meantime will be a wasted effort.

Charles County, Maryland, "Residential Suburban Growth in Maryland Pits Homeowners Against Gravel Mine Owners" (Mar. 1, 1998). The Washington Post reports that residents in Charles County, Maryland are lobbying for restrictions on the entrenched gravel mining industry in the county. The article says that as homes increasingly spread across formerly rural land, homeowners' interests are at odds with the mining industry's practice of routinely strip mining for gravel.

Charleston County, South Carolina, "Proposed Ordinance to Ticket Owners of Barking Dogs Voted Down in Charleston County, South Carolina" (May 5, 1999). The Post and Courier reports that a proposed ordinance in Charleston County, South Carolina that would have allowed police to charge dog owners whose pets bark continually was voted down 6-2. Persons convicted under the ordinance would have received a $500 fine. Although they were sympathetic to residents who have complained of incessantly barking dogs, several council members were concerned that the ordinance was unreasonable for rural residents who "expect to have animals around them" as part of their lifestyle; they maintained that an existing nuisance ordinance would allow problem-dog owners to be prosecuted.

Charleston, South Carolina, "South Carolina State Officials Rule that Proposed Racetrack Near Old-Growth Forest Can Go Forward" (Nov. 20, 1997). The Herald reports that the South Carolina state Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management issued a decision Tuesday that plans for a racetrack near the old-growth Francis Beidler Forest comply with the state's Coastal Zone Management Act. The agency had ruled earlier that the project complied with the state rules, but reviewed its decision after the state Department of Archives and History raised concerns that noise from the track could affect the forest. Meanwhile, opponents led by the National Audubon Society have challenged several permits for the proposed track near Four Holes Swamp, just two miles from the forest.

Charleston, South Carolina, "South Carolina Activist Works to Clean Up Pollution, Appointed to National Advisory Board" (Oct. 30, 1997). The Post and Courier of Charleston, South Carolina, reports that resident turned activist Delbert DuBois has taken action on several environmental problems, including noise and industry contamination, in his Four Mile Hibernian neighborhood. And now DuBois will get the chance to influence environmental decisions nationwide. Starting in November, DuBois will serve as an adviser on the National Environmental Justice Advisory Council, a branch of the EPA.

Charleston, South Carolina, "Noise Ordinance Going Too Far in Charleston?" (May 2, 1998). The Charleston Daily Mail published an editorial questioning the proposal for Charleston police to use decibel meters to enforce noise ordinances.

Charleston, South Carolina, "Second Phase of Repairs Shifts Noise at Charleston Air Force Base" (Mar. 18, 1998). The Post and Courier reports moving a repair project at Charleston Air Force Base from one runway to the other means a reduction in noise for some residents while a return of noise for others.

Charleston, South Carolina, "City of Charleston Considers Updating Noise Ordinance" (May 6, 1998). The Charleston Daily Mail reports city council committees are meeting this week to discuss recycling issues and strengthening the Charleston's noise laws.

Charleston, South Carolina, "South Carolina County Considers Noisy Animal Ordinance" (Apr. 16, 1999). The Post and Courier reports the Charleston, South Carolina, County Council, is working to create a fair and enforceable noise ordinance that will give relief to neighbors annoyed by animal noise.

Charleston, South Carolina, "Charleston, South Carolina Council To Decide Whether Barking Dogs Will Face The Long Arm of the Law" (Apr. 22, 1999). The Charleston Post and Courier reports that one woman is up in arms over the barking dogs that are preventing her and her children from getting sleep. She is in full support of a proposed law that would fine dog owners who do not silence their animals.

Charleston, South Carolina, "Charleston, South Carolina Baseball Stadium Management Asks City to Reduce Cut on Food Sales at Loud Concerts, City Council Delays Answer" (Apr. 28, 1999). The Post and Courier reports that when the Charleston, South Carolina City Council was asked by the Charleston Riverdogs -- management for Joseph P. Riley Jr. baseball stadium to reduce its cut of food sales at rock concerts, the city did not answer immediately. The management wants to hold 6-8 concerts this year in the park, where a concert last year drew noise complaints from neighbors. The Council is also concerned about reports that a black promoter experienced difficulty in leasing the facility.

Charleston, South Carolina, "Charleston, South Carolina Residents Want Stricter Enforcement of Laws Designed to Provide Peace and Privacy from Tourists" (Nov. 16, 1999). The Post and Courier reports that residents of Charleston, South Carolina have a list of ways that the city could make existing tourism laws more effective. A broad, day-long forum on tourism laws is planned for next week. Major issues include stopping tours after 6 p.m., reducing noise, and regulating large busses.

Charleston, South Carolina, "Neighbors' Complaints About Noisy South Carolina Port Prompts Investigation" (Feb. 20, 2000). According to the Associated Press, the Charleston County sheriff's department is investigating a State Ports Authority storage/container yard because of neighbors' complaints about excessive noise. If the Ports Authority is found to be in violation of the county's noise ordinance, it could be forced to stop using the yard or modify its operations.

Charleston, South Carolina, "South Carolina County Officials Investigate States Ports Authority" (Feb. 20, 2000). According to the Associated Press, Charleston County officials have asked the sheriff's department to investigate a State Ports Authority storage yard because of noise and safety concerns from residents.

Charleston, South Carolina, "South Carolinians Organize Opposition to Port Authority's Plan for Container Port" (Feb. 3, 2000). The Post and Courier reported that residents on Daniel Island will publicly oppose the State Ports Authority's (SPA) plan to establish a large container port on state land near the island. They've even formed their own organization, the Daniel Island Neighborhood Association.

Charleston, South Carolina, "Charleston, South Carolina Storage Container Yard in Possible Violation of City Noise Ordinance and County Zoning Regulations" (Mar. 18, 2000). 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.

Charleston, South Carolina, "Reader Asks the "Car Talk Guys" About Noisy Minivan; It's Probably the Differential" (Mar. 13, 2000). The Charleston Daily Mail published a column by auto experts Tom and Ray Magliozzi. A reader wrote in with a question about a 1995 Ford Aerostar that began making a whining noise starting at about 75,000 miles.

Charleston, South Carolina area, "South Carolina Judge Rules He Doesn't Have Jurisdiction Over New Noise Issues Raised by Group Opposing Speedway" (Jun. 3, 1998). The Post and Courier reports that an administrative judge in South Carolina Tuesday ruled that he doesn't have jurisdiction to address issues raised by a group opposing the construction of a racetrack near Francis Beidler Forest outside Charleston, South Carolina. The group wanted to air their concerns about racetrack noise before the judge, especially in light of recent news that the forest might be eligible for the National Register of Historic Places. But the judge ruled that he can't consider the issues unless the South Carolina Board of Health and Environmental Control returns the case to him for a new hearing. That board is expected to consider the matter this summer.

Charleston, West Virginia, "Virginia Senate Approves Bill Giving Counties Power to Control Noise" (Feb. 9, 1999). The Associated Press reports the Virginia Senate approved a proposal to give county commissioners in their state the power to control excessive noise.

Charleston, West Virginia area, "Columnist Criticizes Snowmobiles on Public Lands" (Mar. 23, 1998). The Charleston Gazette printed the following editorial from Donella Meadows, an adjunct professor of environmental studies at Dartmouth College, regarding snowmobile noise on public lands:

Charlestown, Rhode Island, "Charlestown, Rhode Island Town Council to Vote On Proposed Noise Ordinance Amendments That Would Raise Fines and Simplify Enforcement" (Aug. 10, 1999). The Providence Journal-Bulletin reports that the Charlestown, Rhode Island Town Council is considering amendments to the local noise ordinance. Fines and jail terms would be increased, and enforcement would be based on an officer's judgment.

Charlestown, Rhode Island, "Town Council in Charlestown, Rhode Island Passes New Noise Ordinance" (Jul. 12, 1999). The Providence Journal-Bulletin reports that Charlestown, Rhode Island's Town Council has passed a new noise ordinance aimed at reducing noise from radios -- which should not be audible over 50 feet from the source -- and construction. Construction will be prohibited after 10 PM and before 7 AM. Police will use their own discretion in determining violations, and may levy fines up to $500 and jail terms up to 30 days.

Charlestown, South Carolina, "National Audubon Society Fights South Carolina Racetrack Proposal" (Feb. 19, 1998). The Post and Courier reports that residents of Charlestown, South Carolina are engaged in a lawsuit over whether to build a racetrack near the Francis Beidler Forest.

Charlotte, North Carolina, "North Carolina Airport Expansion Plan Goes Forward" (Apr. 30, 1997). The Herald reports that the Charlotte (North Carolina) City Council this week approved an expansion plan for the Charlotte-Douglas International Airport that would add a fourth runway and extend an existing runway. The plans are expected to add overseas flights to the airport. Proponents of the expansion project, however, claim that noise problems likely will be less after the new runway is added due to noise reduction technology in aircraft and the city's ongoing noise abatement plan.

Charlotte, North Carolina, "U.S. Postal Service Launches Program to Test Cordless Electric Lawn Mowers" (Jul. 24, 1997). Business Wire reports through a press release that the U.S. Postal Service is launching a pilot program in North and South Carolina to test the use of battery-operated lawn mowers. The press release goes on to outline the project and to give data on the environmental impacts of switching to electric lawn mowers.

Charlotte, North Carolina, "Federal Aviation Administration Considers Noise Plan For North Carolina Airport" (Dec. 1997). Business & Commercial Aviation reports that the Federal Aviation Administration will examine a noise compatability plan for the Charlotte/ Douglas International Airport in North Carolina.

Charlotte, North Carolina, "Silence Doesn't Mean Agreement in Charlotte with FedEx Hub at Airport" (Mar. 21, 1998). The News and Observer reports that while residents who live near Raleigh-Durham International Airport have voiced their opposition to the noise that a new Federal Express hub would create, residents around Charlotte/Douglas International Airport, one of the four contenders for the project, have not sounded any opposition.

Charlton, Massachusetts, "Charlton, Massachusetts Planning Board Approves Old-Age Center; Businesses Insist on Guarantees that Center's Noise Complaints Would Not Limit Their Operating Hours" (Nov. 4, 1999). The Worcester Telegram and Gazette reports that the Charlton, Massachusetts Planning Board approved an old-age center on a road that is home to businesses such as loud truck and gravel operations. Business owners were concerned that residents of the center would complain about noise and force the businesses to limit their operation hours, and convinced the Board to impose conditions on the development to be determined later.

Chartleston, South Carolina, "Charleston City Council to Write More Enforceable Noise Ordinance" (May 8, 1998). The Charleston Daily Mail reports Charleston's City Council's public safety committee will look into adopting a noise ordinance that is more objective and therefore, more enforceable than their current ordinance.

Chattanooga, Tennessee, "Tennessee Residents Oppose Airport Land-Purchase Plan" (Sep. 16, 1997). The Chattanooga Times reports that residents of the Pine Grove and Portview Hills subdivisions in Chattanooga, Tennessee told members of the Metropolitan Airport Authority Monday that they aren't concerned about the aircraft noise generated at Lovell Field. However, according to Madeline Sims, president of the area's neighborhood association, the residents are worried that the airport authority will purchase their homes piecemeal and at low prices.

Chattanooga, Tennessee, "City Council Hears Noise Complaint Regarding Stadium Event in Chattanooga, Kentucky" (Apr. 1, 1998). The Chattanooga Free Press reports that the question of whether a new stadium is generating too much noise came before the City Council on March 31, 1997 in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

Cheektowaga, New York, "Town in New York Undertakes Effort to Find Money to Mitigate Airport Noise" (Jun. 23, 1997). The Buffalo News reports that officials in Cheektowaga, New York have renewed interest in finding grant money to help soundproof homes and buildings severely affected by jet noise from the Greater Buffalo International Airport. As the airport prepares to complete a new airport terminal, which raises the possibility of more air traffic, officials say this is an appropriate time to seek solutions to the problem.

Chelsea, Massachusetts, "US Rep. Charges Massport with Environmental Injustice in Plan for Third Runway at Boston's Logan Airport" (Apr. 4, 1999). The Boston Globe reports a US Congressman representing districts near Logan Airport has objected to Massport's plan for a third runway on grounds of "environmental injustice," saying noise will be unequally distributed over poor, minority communities.

Cheltenham, England, "Resident Says Noise Ruins Lives in English Town" (Jun. 23, 1998). The Gloucestershire Echo published the following letter to the editor about the ill effects of noise from a resident of High Street, Cheltenham, England:

Cheltenham, England, "Reader in Gloucestershire, England Opposes Height of Construction Sound Barrier" (Apr. 5, 2000). The Gloucestershire Echo in England recently published a letter to the editor by a reader concerned about a government construction project near her residential neighborhood. The letter is reprinted here in its entirety:

Cheltenham, England, "Streetsweeper Too Noisy in English Town" (Jan. 15, 2000). The Gloucestershire Echo printed a letter that appeared in the environmental section of the newspaper concerning noise from a local mechanical streetsweeper. The letter appears in its entirety.

Cheltenham, England, "Reader From England Complains About Motorbike Noise" (Mar. 13, 2000). The Gloucestershire Echo in England published a letter to the editor from a reader who is concerned about motorbike noise near a cemetery. The letter is reprinted here in its entirety:

Cheltenham, U.K., "Gloucestershire, U.K. Woman Irritate by Noise from Airport Says Noise Is A Form of Pollution" (Sep. 18, 1999). The Gloucestershire Echo prints a letter to the editor from a Cheltenham, U.K. resident which criticizes the tendency of many to ignore noise as a real form of pollution. She says that noise pollution is just as bad as any other kind of pollution. She responds to a recent letter to the editor which said that noise from Staverton Airport is not annoying.

Chenoa, Illinois, "Grain Elevator Near Illinois Homes Causes Many Noise and Air Pollution Problems" (Oct. 16, 1997). The Pantagraph printed the following letter-to-the-editor from Dave Ellis, a rural Chenoa, Illinois resident, regarding the noise and air pollution caused by a grain elevator near his home:

Cherryfield and Surry, Maine, "Maine Residents Complain About Personal Watercraft on Local Lakes" (Jul. 25, 1997). The Bangor Daily News printed the following letter-to-the-editors from residents in Surry and Cherryfield, Maine regarding noise from personal watercraft on local lakes:

Chesapeake, Virginia, "Virginia Residents Say More Navy Jets Incompatible with Human Life" (Oct. 29, 1997). The Virginian-Pilot of Norfolk, Virginia, reports that at least 150 Chesapeake residents turned out for the Navy's final hearing on its plan to transfer up to 180 F/A-18 Hornets to Oceana Naval Air Station. The majority of the 15 people who spoke made it clear that more jets would not be welcome. The Navy's jets fly so close you can tell how recently the pilot shaved, one resident here complained. Others said the noise gets so bad they plug their ears when they go outside. And some residents worried that more jets would mean a greater danger of a crash in their neighborhoods.

Chesapeake, Virginia, "Virginia Speedway May Be in Business by March 1999 unless Neighbors Can Bring the Project to a Halt" (Aug. 2, 1998). The Virginian-Pilot reports that promoters of a Motorsports Speedway in Chesapeake want to build a half-mile oval track and stadium in Chesapeake, Virginia. Plans for a motor racetrack have been tossed around the Chesapeake-Suffolk line the past four years.

Chesapeake, Virginia, "City Planners in Chesapeake, Virginia, Reject Speedway Based on Projected Noise" (Oct. 15, 1998). The Virginian-Pilot reports noise was one of the environmental factors commissioners in Chesapeake, Virginia, cited in rejecting a proposed speedway.

Chesapeake, Virginia, "Virginia Speedway Gets OK from City Planners Despite Noise Concerns" (Oct. 13, 1998). The Virginian-Pilot reports city planners in Chesapeake, Virginia have approved a controversial motorsports speedway, saying noise can be satisfactorily mitigated.

Chesapeake, Virginia, "Jet Noise in Virginia Prompts Letters to the Editor" (Dec. 11, 1999). The Virginian-Pilot printed the following letters to the editor concerning flights from Oceana Naval Base.

Cheshire, Connecticut, "Connecticut Neighbors Oppose Outdoor Shooting Range" (Nov. 26, 1997). The Hartford Courant reports that residents in Cheshire, Connecticut are opposing a new outdoor shooting range being built by the state. Residents fear both the noise of gun blasts and the possibility of stray bullets, and are planning to protest at a public meeting on Monday.

Cheshire, Connecticut, "Planned Firing Range Fiercely Opposed by Connecticut Neighbors" (Dec. 2, 1997). The Hartford Courant reports that residents in Cheshire, Connecticut pummeled officials from the state Department of Correction with questions and concerns over a planned firing range Monday. The state's planned 75-foot firing range would be located at The Maloney Center for Training and Staff Development, a former prison. The site is less than 1,000 feet from some homes, and is located near homes on Chestnut Street and a few hundred feet from Jarvis Road.

Chicago area, Illinois, "Chicago Area Communities To Receive Soundproofing" (Apr. 20, 2000). The Chicago Sun-Times reported that homes in communities near O'Hare Airport will receive soundproofing as part of a $30 million city-suburb program.

Chicago area, Illinois, "Chicago Area Residents Voice Opinions on Train Whistles" (Apr. 17, 2000). The Chicago Sun-Times printed an article about train whistles, noise, liability and personal responsibility.

Chicago area, Illinois, "Illinois Towns Neighboring O'Hare International Angry Over United Airlines Recommendation for O'Hare Expansion" (Apr. 20, 2000). According to the Chicago Tribune, United Airlines (the world's largest airlines) dropped a bombshell when it recently recommended construction of a new runway at O'Hare International Airport. According to the article, United has long stated that the airport could meet the demands of increased air traffic without expansion.

Chicago area, Illinois, "Illinois Town Officials Receive Info on Airport Noise Study" (Feb. 1, 2000). The Associated Press reported on an airport noise abatement study for Palwaukee Municipal Airport which will measure airport noise, identify exposure to it, and make a land use determination accordingly. The study will be completed in the spring of 2001.

Chicago suburbs, Illinois, "Residents Near Smaller Airports Around Chicago Oppose Airports' Expansion and Raise Noise Issues" (May 30, 1997). The Chicago Tribune reports that an increasing number of small airports in the Chicago suburbs are becoming the focal points of fights that involve residents who are opposed to airport expansions and worried about noise issues. The article explores the situation of the controversies revolving around the Schaumburg Airport, Lake in the Hills Airport in McHenry County, Palwaukee Airport in Wheeling, and Waukegan Airport in Lake County.

Chicago, IL, "Chicago Mayor Makes Effort To Quiet The Suburbs Affected By International Airport" (Apr. 29, 1997). The Chicago Tribune reports that the complaints of suburban neighborhoods against O'Hare International Airport have culminated into an important political issue by suburban officials over the past two decades. Statewide political candidates have been supporting the fight against noise pollution since 1990, and Chicago and the airlines have been unsuccessful in their bid to build another runway.

Chicago, Illinois, "Chicago and Suburbs Argue Over Soundproofing for Multi-Family Dwellings" (Aug. 12, 1997). The Chicago Sun-Times reports that officials from Chicago and nearby Bensenville are arguing with each other over who is responsible for excluding apartments and condominiums from the program to soundproof buildings against jet noise from O'Hare International Airport.

Chicago, Illinois, "Chicago O'Hare Airport Noise Fight Shows No Sign of Abating" (Aug. 10, 1997). The Chicago Sun-Times reports that the long-standing fight between the City of Chicago and the suburbs over aircraft noise from O'Hare Airport has shown no sign of abating this summer, even with the implementation of the city's "Fly Quiet" program. The article summarizes the history of the fight, as well as the major issues and proposed solutions.

Chicago, Illinois, "Editors Advise Giving Chicago's "Fly Quiet" Nighttime Aircraft Noise Reduction Plan Another Chance" (Aug. 4, 1997). The Chicago Sun-Times printed an editorial which argues that Chicago's "Fly Quiet" voluntary nighttime noise reduction plan for O'Hare International Airport flights should be given a second chance. The program has only been underway for a month, the article points out, and deserves a longer chance to see if it will work.

Chicago, Illinois, "Residents in Chicago Lobby for Noise Walls" (Aug. 6, 1997). The Chicago Tribune reports hundreds of residents along Chicago's tollways, including those in the Orchard Brook, Hoffman Estates, and Burr Ridge subdivisions, have petitioned the Illinois Toll Highway Authority to build noise barriers. Officials from the authority, however, are making no promises about building noise barriers, which they say are expensive.

Chicago, Illinois, "Chicago's Airport Noise Commission Wants Pilots to Use Full Length of Runway for Takeoffs to Reduce Noise" (Sep. 6, 1997). The Chicago Tribune reports that the O'Hare Noise Compatibility Commission, a city-suburban group working on noise issues at Chicago's O'Hare International Airport, asked federal regulators Friday to require pilots taking off at night to use the full length of a runway in order to avoid flying at a low altitude over the northwest suburbs. The commission's action comes as noise complaints from residents are rising, the article says.

Chicago, Illinois, "Chicago Area High School Presses City For Soundproofing From Airport Noise" (Dec. 19, 1997). Chicago Daily Herald reports that Immaculate Conception High School's hopes of getting Chicago to pay more for airplane soundproofing are growing a bit brighter.

Chicago, Illinois, "Chicago's "Fly Quiet" Program A Sham" (Dec. 18, 1997). The Chicago Tribune reports that six months after Mayor Daley's "Fly Quiet" program at O'Hare Airport in Chicago, area residents are still complaining about aircraft noise. Some residents say noise is worse.

Chicago, Illinois, "Surprising Allies Rally For A Third Chicago Airport" (Dec. 15, 1997). USA Today reports that a suburban Republican conservative and an inner-city preacher's son and Democrat have bonded to get funds and support to build a controversial third airport about 45 miles south of Chicago, the nation's transportation hub.

Chicago, Illinois, "Another Chicago Area Community Joins Forces To Quiet Airport Noise" (Dec. 27, 1997). The Chicago Daily Herald reports that Chicago area residents continue to clamor over the noise from O'Hare International Airport.

Chicago, Illinois, "Chicago Area School Sues City For Soundproofing From Airport Noise" (Dec. 25, 1997). The Chicago Tribune reports that The Chicago Department of Aviation and the Immaculate Conception School in Elmhurst are struggling through a lawsuit over soundproofing for the school.

Chicago, Illinois, "Chicago Area Builds Berm To Shelter Homes From Traffic Noise" (Dec. 13, 1997). The Chicago Daily Herald reports that about 1.1 million cubic yards, will be used to build a berm along Interstate 290 from Addison to Mill roads to protect nearby houses and condominiums from traffic noise.

Chicago, Illinois, "Chicago Noise Pollution Activists Struggle for Airplane Curfews" (Dec. 11, 1997). The Chicago Tribune reports that Jack Saporito, activist against airport noise and pollution, sits alone in his Arlington Heights home pondering his next move: trying to get a curfew on overnight flights at O'Hare International Airport.

Chicago, Illinois, "Chicago Has Soundproofed 600 Suburban Homes to Compensate for Jet Noise" (Aug. 1997). Governing Magazine reports that Chicago officials have soundproofed more than 600 homes in an effort to satisy homeowners disturbed by jet noise from O'Hare International Airport.

Chicago, Illinois, "Chicago Anti-Airport Group Dismisses Mayor's New "Fly Quiet" Plan" (Jun. 17, 1997). The Chicago Sun-Times reports that Chicago Mayor Daley, along with airline executives, is scheduled to announce an anti-noise initiative today called the "Fly Quiet" plan. The plan reportedly calls for pilots to fly over non-residential areas during nighttime hours, including industrial parks, railroad tracks, forest preserves, and expressways. But according to the Suburban O'Hare Commission, a group fighting O'Hare Airport expansion, Daley's plan is a ploy to lay the groundwork for new runways.

Chicago, Illinois, "Chicago Mayor's New Program to Address O'Hare Airport Noise Doesn't Satisfy Critics" (Jun. 18, 1997). The Chicago Tribune reports that Chicago Mayor Richard Daley announced Tuesday a cooperative venture to quiet nighttime jet noise around O'Hare International and Midway Airports. The mayor was joined by Arlington Heights Mayor Arlene Mulder, who is also chair of the O'Hare Noise Compatibility Commission. But other suburbanites interpreted Daley's move as a precursor to airport expansion, and said the initiative is an old, unworkable plan with a new name.

Chicago, Illinois, "Chicago Agrees to Soundproof More Homes in the Suburbs, Settling Lawsuit" (Jul. 2, 1997). The Chicago Tribune reports that hundreds more homes around Chicago's O'Hare International Airport will be insulated against jet noise under the settlement terms of a lawsuit between the Village of Bensenville and the City of Chicago. Chicago has agreed to spend $11.4 million more by the year's end to soundproof 344 additional homes in Bensenville, Des Plaines, and unincorporated portions of DuPage and Cook Counties. The city originally had planned to spend $21 million to insulate 624 homes in Northlake, Schiller Park, and parts of unincorporated Cook County.

Chicago, Illinois, "Lawyer for Chicago Anti-Noise Airport Group Plays Hardball" (May 16, 1997). The Chicago Tribune reports that Joe Karaganis has been the lead lawyer for 13 years for the Suburban O'Hare Commission, a group of 11 suburbs northwest of Chicago fighting noise and runway expansion at O'Hare Airport. The article profiles Karaganis, and contrasts the ways in which he has earned the animosity of some city and airline officials and the devotion of his clients.

Chicago, Illinois, "Chicago Suburb Supports Third Airport" (Nov. 24, 1997). The Chicago Daily Herald reports that Arlington Heights, Illinois will consider joining a new group touting a third regional airport to open by 2005.

Chicago, Illinois, "Illinois City Supports Plan For Third Airport" (Nov. 25, 1997). The Chicago Daily Herald reports that the City Council of Des Plaines, Illinois unanimously supported a third airport as an alternative to new runways at O'Hare

Chicago, Illinois, "Chicago Area Considers Third Airport" (Dec. 4, 1997). The Chicago Tribune reports that Chicago officials are meeting to consider a third airport in the Chicago area rather than an expansion of O'Hare International Airport.

Chicago, Illinois, "Illinois Town Asks Why O'Hare Airport Does Not Follow Noise Abatement Procedures" (Dec. 3, 1997). The Chicago Daily Herald reports that the town of Arlington Heights, Illinois is sending a letter this week to the city of Chicago asking why O'Hare is not following the "Fly Quiet" noise abatement procedures.

Chicago, Illinois, "United Airlines Reduces Noise Emissions Early" (Sep. 8, 1997). M2 Presswire released a press release from United Airlines that says the airline will have reduced the aircraft noise emissions of its fleet by 25% more than federal standards require by the end of this year. The announcement came today during a meeting of the O'Hare Noise Compatibility Commission.

Chicago, Illinois, "Chicago's Noise Law Impounds Cars Blasting Music" (Apr. 13, 1998). The Chicago Tribune reports that in the last year thousands of Chicagoans have had their cars impounded, some for violating the city code governing Noise and Vibration Control.

Chicago, Illinois, "Will New Flight Patterns across the U.S. Mitigate Noise?" (Apr. 15, 1998). The Chicago Sun-Times reports the national network of air traffic routes will be redrawn to reduce flight delays and noise on the ground, according to the Federal Aviation Administration.

Chicago, Illinois, "Two Chicago Area Schools Get $6 Million in Soundproofing Against Airport Noise" (Apr. 25, 1998). The Chicago Sun-Times reports U.S. Transportation Secretary Rodney Slater announced that two Chicago area schools will get $6 million in grants for soundproofing against noise from O'Hare and Midway airports. In addition, Slater announced grants of $6.9 million to other Chicago airport projects, and $14.3 million for other Illinois airport projects.

Chicago, Illinois, "Chicago Must Fund Study to Soundproof School from O'Hare Noise" (May 1, 1998). The Chicago Tribune reports the city of Chicago was ordered to pay for engineering plans showing the differences between its proposal to soundproof Immaculate Conception Schools in Elmhurst and the proposal submitted by school officials. Chicago will pay about $100,000 for the comparison.

Chicago, Illinois, "Chicago Suburb Will Continue to Work with Two O'Hare Noise Groups Despite Vote" (Apr. 26, 1998). The Chicago Daily Herald reports the Des Plaines City Council opted against joining the O'Hare Noise Compatibility Commission. But a vote for one group doesn't necessarily mean disapproval of the other group, according to city officials.

Chicago, Illinois, "Lawsuit Continues; Chicago Will Pay for Cost Estimates to Soundproof Church" (May 1, 1998). The Chicago Sun-Times reports city administrators tentatively agreed to pay for an estimate of the costs of soundproofing a Catholic school and church in Elmhurst that are suing the city over O'Hare Airport noise.

Chicago, Illinois, "More Flights at O'Hare or a Third Airport? No Agreement." (Apr. 28, 1998). The Chicago Sun-Times reports O'Hare critics are angered by a plan to add 53 daily commuter flights at O'Hare Airport. Their protests are fueling arguments for a third airport at Peotone.

Chicago, Illinois, "Night Flights Upset Neighbors Near O’Hare International Airport" (Aug. 4, 1998). The Chicago Tribune reports an increase in overnight flights at O'Hare International Airport. The increase is being publicized by Chicago's Fly Quiet program, and organized effort established last year to help reduce noise at the world's busiest airport.

Chicago, Illinois, "Airport Activist Calls New O'Hare Flight Path Plans 'Two-Lane Highways'" (Sep. 5, 1998). The Chicago Daily Herald reports new flight path plans favored by the Federal Aviation Administration at O'Hare International Airport are causing alarm in airport activists who fear more flights, along with increased noise and pollution.

Chicago, Illinois, "New Flight-Control Plan at O'Hare Raises Concerns from Activists and Traffic Controllers" (Sep. 4, 1998). The Chicago Tribune reports the Federal Aviation Administration's plan to reconfigure flight paths for the Chicago area's airspace has launched a debate over whether the plan is a part of a strategy to increase flights at O'Hare International Airport. Meanwhile, air traffic controllers voice their safety concerns about the new flight plan.

Chicago, Illinois, "O'Hare Air Traffic Noise on the Rise in Chicago Neighborhoods; Frustrated Noise Panel Wants FAA Help" (Sep. 4, 1998). The Chicago Tribune reports despite the efforts of the O'Hare Noise Compatibility Commission, the noise problem at O'Hare appears to be worsening. Commission members are requesting from the Federal Aviation Administration stronger support of a plan to steer aircraft away from residential areas.

Chicago, Illinois, "Soundproofing Costs Mount Up In Chicago Area Schools" (Feb. 25, 1998). The Chicago Tribune reports that soundproofing is underway at Chicago area schools to protect schools from airport noise, but the price is high.

Chicago, Illinois, "An Editorial in Favor of the Rake Over the Leaf Blower" (Jan. 11, 1998). An editorial in the Chicago Tribune argues against leaf blowers and for the old fashioned, quiet rake. The editorial claims that gas powered leaf blowers make bad neighbors. And while, the editorial admits, the sickening, high-pitched leaf-blower whine is only a memory in January, it is not too early to begin efforts in your city, town, village, suburb or exurb to get the damned things outlawed by the fall.

Chicago, Illinois, "Chicago Department of Aviation Member Defends City and Airport's Noise Program" (Jan. 22, 1998). The Chicago Tribune printed a letter from Dennis Culloton, member of the city's Department of Aviation. In the following letter, Culloton defends the noise reduction efforts of the city of Chicago and O'Hare Airport. Culloton writes:

Chicago, Illinois, "Fewer Flights, More Passengers at Chicago's O'Hare International Airport Says Airport Official" (Jan. 8, 1998). Chicago Daily Herald reports that newly released statistics show fewer planes are taking off and landing at O'Hare International Airport in Chicago, Illinois where aircraft noise has angered many in nearby suburbs. Chicago aviation commissioner Mary Rose Loney said at a recent meeting with suburban business and elected leaders that the number of flights in 1997 dropped about 2 percent from the previous year, from 909,000 to an estimated 890,000. However, some airport noise activists claim that these numbers are too low.

Chicago, Illinois, "Congressional Plan to Add Flights at Chicago Airport Draws Sharp Outcry from Residents" (Jul. 12, 1998). The Chicago Sun-Times reports residents living near the O'Hare International Airport in Chicago, Illinois last week sharply protested a proposal by U.S. Senator John McCain (R-Arizona) to add 129 commercial flights per day at the airport.

Chicago, Illinois, "Ariz. Sen. McCain Backs Proposal to Add More Flights at O'Hare; Chicago Area Residents Outraged" (Jul. 9, 1998). The Chicago Sun-Times reports Chicago area residents reacted with outrage to a U.S. Senate proposal to add 100 daily flights at O'Hare Airport.

Chicago, Illinois, "Opinions Regarding the Utility of Expansion at Chicago's O'Hara International Airport Verses Construction of a Third Chicago Airport Debated" (Jun. 19, 1998). The Chicago Herald reports that the city of Chicago is projecting 200 more flights a day at O'Hare International Airport within the next 15 years. However, Illinois state transportation officials believe the growth in jet traffic at the world's busiest airport will be substantially higher. At stake in the dispute between those two estimates for growth is the issue of whether a third airport is needed in the Chicago area.

Chicago, Illinois, "Village Officials for Arlington Heights Displeased with Increased Noise from Chicago's O'Hara International Airport" (Jun. 20, 1998). The Chicago Daily Herald reports that the village of Arlington Heights, Illinois is divided over how best to state the its displeasure with the increased level of noise and air pollution generated by nearby O'Hara International Airport, the world's busiest airport.

Chicago, Illinois, "Group Meets with Pilots to Discuss Ways to Reduce Suburban Noise from O'Hare" (Jul. 1, 1998). The Chicago Daily Herald reports members of the O'Hare Noise Compatibility Commission met with two chief pilots from United and American airlines Tuesday to brainstorm ideas for reducing noise pollution in the Northwest suburbs.

Chicago, Illinois, "Illinois Transportation Official Ties New Runway at O'Hare to Future Success of Airport" (Jun. 12, 1998). The Chicago Tribune reports that Kirk Brown, the Illinois Transportation Secretary, said Thursday in a speech to north suburban business executives and transportation officials in Deerfield that without a new runway, Chicago's O'Hare International Airport will continue to lose domestic flights, diminishing its national role and travel options for residents. Brown said later that he wasn't advocating a new runway at O'Hare, which would put him at odds with Governor Jim Edgar. Meanwhile, opponents of O'Hare expansion said Brown's remarks were troubling.

Chicago, Illinois, "Chicago Residents Upset Over Noise from Railroad Track Blower" (Mar. 31, 1998). The Chicago Sun-Times reports that Chicago residents living in the 4600 block of North Lawler in Jefferson Park are upset about the noise from three blower devices the Union Pacific Railroad installed next to the tracks on Metra's Northwest line to Harvard. The three devices blow cold air on the tracks to keep snow and ice from interfering with the railroad switches, and they run 24 hours a day from November through April.

Chicago, Illinois, "Letter from Dept. of Aviation Clarifies Methods of O'Hare Noise Data Collection" (May 16, 1998). The Chicago Tribune published the following letter from Mary Rose Loney, Commissioner, Department of Aviation. In her letter, Ms. Loney seeks to clarify information reported in a previous Tribune article about the collection of noise data from O'Hare to establish noise contour maps:

Chicago, Illinois, "West Chicago Debates Railport Proposal: Lists Noise and Traffic Concerns" (May 13, 1998). The Chicago Daily Herald reports West Chicago city officials say they need more information and more convincing before they can agree to the "railport" being proposed by Union Pacific Railroad.

Chicago, Illinois, "Truck Noise at Chicago Motel Deprive Condo Residents of Sleep" (May 20, 1998). The Chicago Daily Herald reports semi-tractor trailers parked in the back of a Motel 6 in Villa Park, Chicago, are causing nearby residents to lose sleep.

Chicago, Illinois, "Chicago Resident Approves Actions to Lower Car Stereo Noise" (May 26, 1998). The Chicago Tribune printed the following letter-to-the-editor from Kathryn Kinnerk, a Chicago resident, regarding noise from car radios, car horns, and motorcycles:

Chicago, Illinois, "Chicago Noise Commission Seeks Commitment From Air Cargo Companies to Phase Out Noisier Jets Ahead of Schedule" (Jun. 6, 1998). The Chicago Tribune reports that the O'Hare Noise Compatibility Commission, a Chicago group formed by the city's mayor, has decided to seek a written commitment from the air cargo carriers at O'Hare International Airport to phase out older, noisier aircraft engines before the year 2000. (By 2000, all jets must comply with quieter, Stage 3 noise standards set by federal regulations.) The article says that the decision was the result of a "cargo summit" meeting held May 28 between the commission and representatives of 10 air cargo carriers.

Chicago, Illinois, "Two Chicago Suburbs to Get Mobile Monitors to Measure Noise from O'Hare" (Nov. 7, 1998). The Chicago Daily Herald reports mobile noise monitors will soon be placed in Arlington Heights and Rolling Meadows to measure noise from O'Hare International Airport.

Chicago, Illinois, "Chicago Botanic Garden Proposes to Build Eye-Pleasing Noise Wall" (Nov. 19, 1998). The Chicago Tribune reports the Chicago Botanic Garden is working on a proposal to build an innovative sound barrier to muffle nearby highway traffic noise.

Chicago, Illinois, "What to do about O'Hare Airport? Opinions Vary on Issues from Expansion to Pollution and Noise" (Nov. 15, 1998). The Sunday Gazette Mail reports the only aspects about Chicago's O'Hare International Airport that officials and residents can agree on is it's crowded but it pumps billions of dollars into the economy. On nearly everything else, including expansion, capacity, pollution, and noise, opinions vary and create strange political bedfellows.

Chicago, Illinois, "Firm Designs Quiet Office Next to O'Hare Airport" (Nov. 23, 1998). The Chicago Sun-Times reports a manufacturer of ceilings and walls has made its Chicago training center into a "shrine of soundproofing" in office park next to O'Hare International Airport.

Chicago, Illinois, "Noise, Growth, Aviation Marketplace, All Figure into Chicago Airport Debate" (Nov. 23, 1998). The Chicago Tribune published an editorial contending a new group f business leaders is recasting the question of Chicago, O'Hare Airport, and growth in the aviation marketplace. Should the focus be on accommodating growth or attracting it?

Chicago, Illinois, "While Chicago Chamber of Commerce Pushes Growth at O'Hare, Citizens' Groups Stress Noise and Environmental Impacts" (Nov. 10, 1998). The Chicago Sun-Times reports the Chicago region could lose billions of dollars in economic activity if O'Hare Airport is not allowed to expand according to a report commissioned by the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce.

Chicago, Illinois, "Editorial Praises Chicago's Ordinance Outlawing Loud, Annoying Car Stereos" (Oct. 4, 1998). The Chicago Tribune published the following editorial praising Chicago's ordinance that outlaws loud, annoying music from car stereos.

Chicago, Illinois, "Noisy Dutch Plane Will Tryout O'Hare's Hush House" (Oct. 5, 1998). The Chicago Daily Herald reports that the Dutch Air Force is scheduled to tryout O'Hare's Hush House. According to the article they plan to use one of their big planes - a Hercules C-130H - to test out O'Hare's $3.1 million structure.

Chicago, Illinois, "Overzealous Airline Lobbying Nixes Extra Slots at O'Hare; Anti-Noise Group Thrilled" (Oct. 9, 1998). The Chicago Tribune reports behind-the-scenes maneuvering by United Airlines gave a senator reason to nix additional slots at O'Hare International Airport.

Chicago, Illinois, "Even with Quieter Planes, O'Hare Neighbors Say Air Traffic Noise Increasing" (Sep. 23, 1998). The Chicago Tribune reports two reports released Tuesday by the O'Hare Noise Compatibility Commission highlight a contradiction in the controversy over airplane noise at Chicago's O'Hare International Airport. Even though air carriers use quieter aircraft, O'Hare's neighbors say noise has increased dramatically.

Chicago, Illinois, "Changes to Airspace Plan Charges Debate about Increased Flight Capacity at O'Hare International Airport" (Oct. 2, 1998). The Chicago Daily Herald reported that a Federal Aviation Administration workshop for the public discussing airspace changes was vague about whether the changes would mean increased flight capacity.

Chicago, Illinois, "Chicago Alderman Seeks to Soften City's Noise Ordinance, Claiming Ban on Loud Car Music Hurts Retailers" (Sep. 30, 1998). The Chicago Tribune reports a Chicago, Illinois, City Alderman has introduced an initiative to amend the city's 1996 ordinance that bans loud music in cars. Opponents of the current noise ordinance say it hurts business at car-audio retailers.

Chicago, Illinois, "Missouri Town Files Suit to Overturn Expansion at Lambert-St. Louis International Airport" (Oct. 2, 1998). The Bond Buyer reports the city of Bridgeton, Missouri, filed suit against the city of St. Louis hours after St. Louis won approval for expansion of the Lambert-St. Louis International Airport.

Chicago, Illinois, "O'Hare Noise Group Discusses Need to Tackle National Issues of Local Importance for Many Cities" (Oct. 3, 1998). The Chicago Daily Herald reports that the O'Hare Noise Compatibility Commission discussed the need to tackle national airport noise issues and the importance of forming alliances with similar groups in other cities.

Chicago, Illinois, "O'Hare's Noise Commissioner Urges the Panel to Take on National Issues to Reduce Noise" (Oct. 3, 1998). The Chicago Tribune reports that the O'Hare Noise Compatibility Commission is discussing whether to expand its campaign to Washington, D.C. in an effort to reduce noise levels back home.

Chicago, Illinois, "Airport Activists Question Aim of O'Hare Meeting" (Sep. 11, 1998). The Chicago Daily Herald reports a closed-door meeting between Illinois state and local officials and airline executives Thursday caused some noise activists to suggest the aim of the meeting was to discuss expansion at O'Hare International Airport.

Chicago, Illinois, "Increased Night Flights at O'Hare Limits Chicago's Fly Quiet Program" (Sep. 8, 1998). The Chicago Sun-Times reports Chicago's Fly Quiet program produces negligible results as night flights from O'Hare Airport increase.

Chicago, Illinois, "Is it Noise or Publicity that Prompts Residents to Call O'Hare Hotline?" (Sep. 8, 1998). The Associated Press reports complaints about airplane noise from Chicago's O'Hare International Airport often come from residents in the towns that are the least affected by airplane noise problems.

Chicago, Illinois, "Leaders Meet to Discuss O'Hare Airport; Noise Reduction Likely on Agenda" (Sep. 9, 1998). The Chicago Tribune reports Chicago's Mayor Richard M. Daley, state legislators, major airline executives, and north suburban business leaders will meet to discuss O'Hare International Airport on Thursday during a closed-door meeting.

Chicago, Illinois, "O'Hare Business Group Meets with Suburban Legislators to Drum up Support for O'Hare" (Sep. 11, 1998). The Chicago Tribune reports suburban legislators met Thursday with the Greater O'Hare Association of Industry and Commerce to discuss regional cooperation and support of O'Hare International Airport.

Chicago, Illinois, "O'Hare Residents Place an Ad To Combat Increased Daytime Air Trafic" (Apr. 24, 1999). The Chicago Daily Herald reports that concerned communities near the O'Hare International Airport have taken out a full-page ad in order to motivate people to contact their lawmakers and voice their concerns about increased air traffic which they feel will lead to more noise pollution and collisions.

Chicago, Illinois, "Chicago Firefighter's Sue Siren Manufacturer Saying Defective, Excessively Loud Sirens Caused Hearing Loss" (Apr. 30, 1999). The Chicago Tribune reports that 27 former or current firefighters in Chicago are suing Federal Signal Corporation, claiming that defective sirens emitted excessively intense sound that permanently damaged their hearing.

Chicago, Illinois, "Chicago's O'Hare Airport Noise Compatibility Commission Requests Study of How Precisely Airlines Adhere to Prescribed Flight Paths that Reduce Residential Noise Impacts" (Apr. 28, 1999). The Chicago Tribune reports that the Noise Compatibility Commission of Chicago's O'Hare Airport asked airlines to determine how well their pilots adhere to prescribed "fly quiet" paths between 10 PM and 7 AM. The flight paths are determined to avoid most residential areas and reduce subsequent noise impacts, but "strong wind, erring compasses, and pilot or air-traffic control decisions" can cause deviations.

Chicago, Illinois, "Chicago's O'Hare Airport to Expand Use of Flight Management Systems Technology That Allows Planes to Follow Flight Paths More Tightly, Reducing Noise Impact Areas" (Apr. 28, 1999). The Chicago Sun-Times reports that O'Hare Airport plans to begin using Flight Management Systems (FMS) after two months of successful testing showed that they are effective. FMS relies on electronic navigation to guide planes more tightly along designated flight paths; currently, pilots rely on compass readings from the control tower and can not completely compensate for factors such as wind. Following tighter flight paths would mean reducing the residential areas that are impacted by noise from aircraft.

Chicago, Illinois, "Brochure Informs Residents of Temporary Noise Shifts at O'Hare Airport" (Apr. 5, 1999). The Chicago Sun-Times reports summer maintenance projects at O'Hare Airport are expected to create noise shifts over Chicago area communities.

Chicago, Illinois, "Chicago Suburb Police Attack Loud Car Stereos By Impounding Cars and Levying High Fines" (Aug. 4, 1999). The Chicago Sun-Times reports that several suburbs around Chicago have been fighting an epidemic of loud car stereos by impounding cars and issuing fines of up to $500. Some police departments are allowed to use their own judgment to determine violators, while some communities have set distances -- such as 75 feet -- at which noise can not be audible. Courts generally allow police to impound cars when the driver breaks a specific law, although the American Civil Liberties Union says it's a "quick fix."

Chicago, Illinois, "Chicago Suburb Residents Living Near Edens Expressway Pleased With State's Agreement to Help Build a Noise Wall; The Decision Is the First Time the State Has Funded Noise Mitigation Separately From a Road Expansion Project" (Aug. 6, 1999). The Chicago Tribune reports that for the first time, Illinois' FIRST program will be used to help pay for a noise wall along a section of road that is not undergoing expansion. The 18-foot wall will cost $1-million to $1.5-million per mile, and the local communities will be expected to put up matching funds for the project. The communities have already put up $100,000 collectively to pay for a study to determine the details of the wall.

Chicago, Illinois, "Flight Delays at Chicago's O'Hare Airport Cause More Nighttime Takeoffs that Disturb Residents" (Aug. 25, 1999). The Chicago Daily Herald reports that a 98% increase in flight delays at Chicago's O'Hare Airport in recent months has pushed 22 more flights after 10 PM each night. The 98% increase in delays comes after less than 1% growth in air traffic, suggesting that the problems are not with strained capacity. Noise complaints are down, and noise monitors are reading lower, but activists still say that planes aren't using designated quieter nighttime runways enough.

Chicago, Illinois, "High-Rise Condo Tenants in Chicago Sue Upstairs Neighbor -- Who Happens to Be a Judge -- Over 'Excessive' Noise" (Aug. 27, 1999). The Chicago Sun-Times reports that a couple living in a high-rise condo in Chicago where units sell for $500,000 has sued their upstairs neighbor -- who is a judge -- for producing excessive noise. The building manager did a questionable "study" and determined that most noise comes through the walls, not the granite floor. The couple is demanding that the judge stop making certain noises, insulate his floor, and pay them $50,000 in damages and legal costs. The judge says he has had the floor for ten years without incident.

Chicago, Illinois, "Chicago Judge and Neighbors in Dispute Over Condo Noise" (Dec. 10, 1999). The Chicago Sun-Times reported that sound engineers will soon settle a dispute between a Cook County judge and his neighbors over noise from the judge's granite floor.

Chicago, Illinois, "Illinois Institute of Technology Will Build Noise-Muffling Tube Around Elevated Train Tracks As Part of a the New Campus Center Construction Project" (Dec. 8, 1999). The Chicago Tribune reports that the Illinois Institute of Technology will build a noise-muffling tube around elevated train tracks as part of the construction of a new campus center. The 531-foot tube will be sheathed with concrete and steel, and should reduce the noise -- which can reach 120 decibels in the area -- to 40 or 50.

Chicago, Illinois, "Additonal Flights at O'Hare Worry Arlington Heights' Residents" (Feb. 17, 1999). The Chicago Daily Herald reports a consultant for Chicago's aviation department told suburban leaders Tuesday that adding flights at O'Hare International Airport likely would make airplane noise more tolerable, especially at night.

Chicago, Illinois, "Chicago Area Schools Compete for Slim Soundproofing Funds as O'Hare Considers Building More Terminals" (Feb. 17, 1999). The Chicago Tribune reports as Chicago officials consider building more terminals at O'Hare International Airport, 15 nearby schools are competing to be one of the four chosen this year to be insulated against jet noise.

Chicago, Illinois, "Chicago Suburb Asks Legislators to Delay Lifting Flight Caps at O'Hare; Noise Panel Asks for Impact Study" (Feb. 17, 1999). The Chicago Tribune reports key members of the Illinois congressional delegation have been asked to withhold approval of legislation ending a cap on hourly flights at O'Hare International Airport until an impact study can be done.

Chicago, Illinois, "Vote in Chicago Districts Links Midway Airport Noise to Property Tax Relief" (Feb. 18, 1999). The Chicago Tribune reports residents of Chicago wards put a non-binding referendum question on a ballot for Tuesday that makes noise pollution from Midway Airport a reason for property tax relief.

Chicago, Illinois, "Chicago Targets Homes to Soundproof Against Noise from O'Hare; Activists Question Accuracy of Noise Maps" (Mar. 6, 1999). The Chicago Tribune reports Chicago announced its annual soundproofing plan to insulate homes against noise from jets at O'Hare International Airport, officials announced Friday. Meanwhile, activists question the accuracy of noise contour maps used to determine the allocation of soundproofing funds.

Chicago, Illinois, "Chicago Updates Soundproofing Plan to Include More Homes Affected by Noise from O'Hare" (Mar. 6, 1999). The Chicago Daily Herald reports the city of Chicago has updated its soundproofing plan to include homes located just west of O'Hare International Airport previously considered ineligible. Chicago will now soundproof homes in eight communities surrounding the airport.

Chicago, Illinois, "State's Attorney's Office Joins School in Suit Against Chicago for Funds to Muffle Noise from O'Hare Airport" (Feb. 7, 1999). The Chicago Daily Herald reports the DuPage County state's attorney's office has stepped into the legal battle between the city of Chicago and a private school system which sued for funds to soundproof the schools against noise from O'Hare International Airport.

Chicago, Illinois, "Rep. Hyde Needs House Speaker to Defeat Expansion at O'Hare" (Feb. 4, 1999). The Chicago Daily Herald reports two of Illinois' most powerful congressmen may be about to clash over expansion at O'Hare International Airport.

Chicago, Illinois, "The Politics of Noise vs. Economics at O'Hare International Airport; Editorial Praises Mayor Daley's Expansion Plan" (Feb. 6, 1999). The Chicago Tribune published an editorial praising Chicago Mayor Richard Daley's expansion plans for O'Hare International Airport.

Chicago, Illinois, "Chicago Community Association Takes Successful Proactive Approach to Solving Noise Problems" (Jul. 30, 1999). The Chicago Tribune reports on a Chicago Community Association which managed to address noise complaints with none of the traditional fights and lawsuits among neighbors that often accompany noise complaints. A two-year process of surveying, consultation with experts, and the institution of new policies have helped to quiet the building. Newer tenants tend to prefer sleeker furniture and floors which don't absorb sound well, and new rules that require more carpeting on the floors of each room and prohibit or caution against inappropriate activities have quieted the building.

Chicago, Illinois, "Fewer Calls to Noise Hotline for Chicago O'Hare Airport May Not Mean Less Noise" (Jun. 25, 1999). The Chicago Sun-Times reports that calls to Chicago O'Hare Airport's noise complaint hotline are down for the first quarter of the year from 8,200 calls from 3,751 people to 5,044 calls from 1901 people. Chicago aviation spokesman claims that individual 'noise events' as measured by noise monitors are down, but many say that the drop in complaints is just due to resident frustration with the perceived futility of their calls to the 2.5-year-old hotline. Park Ridge Mayor Ron Wietecha says "Most people are frustrated. And the noise hasn't gotten better for us." Most callers complain of low-flying planes, followed by those who complain of the number of planes.

Chicago, Illinois, "Chicago, Illinois Alderman Suggests Easing Noise Ordinance Against Boom-Cars, Claiming Consequence of Car-Impoundment Falls Too Disproportionately on Minorities; City Council Disagrees" (Jun. 8, 1999). The Chicago Tribune reports that a Chicago, Illinois City Council committee rejected a proposal to limit the hours that the noise ordinance against boom-cars would apply. Currently, car-owners who play excessively loud stereos can be fined up to $500, and have their car-impounded; getting their car back costs $115. The alderman claimed that violators were disproportionately minorities, and that they were unfairly hindered from going to work. The proposal would have limited the applicable hours of the ordinance to between 9 AM and 9 PM.

Chicago, Illinois, "Consultant to Check Accuracy of Chicago O'Hare Airport Noise Monitors" (May 19, 1999). Chicago Sun-Times reports that a noise consultant hired by Chicago, O'Hare's Noise Compatibility Commission will analyze the airport's 28 noise monitors for accuracy. The monitors record aircraft noise in neighborhoods and send data to the airport, so noise can be correlated with particular runways and airlines. The commission, which includes several school districts in the area, wants to use the data to help fight noise.

Chicago, Illinois, "Chicago's O'Hare Airport Slacking on Use of Preferred Night Runways that Disturb Fewer Residents, but Introduction of Quieter Planes Helps to Lessen Noise Complaints" (May 26, 1999). The Chicago Sun-Times reports that O-Hare Airport's "Fly Quiet" guidelines, created in 1997 to limit noise between 10 PM and 7 AM, are not always being adhered to. Use of two designated night runways, selected because their flight paths avoid most residential areas, has declined. Despite this fact, nighttime noise complaints have declined from 2,234 to 1,246, due in part to the phasing out of noisier "Phase II" aircraft.

Chicago, Illinois, "Chicago's O'Hare Noise Compatibility Commission Asked City to Identify Airlines Not Adhering to Preferred Flight Paths" (May 26, 1999). The Chicago Daily Herald reports that O'Hare's Noise Compatibility Commission has asked city officials to identify which airlines stray from routes designed to limit airport noise in residential areas. Many flights are ignoring the designated runways, or turning earlier than suggested.

Chicago, Illinois, "New Noise Ordinance in Chicago's Fox River Allows Noisy Boats to be Identified By Ear" (May 26, 1999). The Chicago Daily Herald reports that a new noise ordinance put in place by the Fox Waterway Agency will discard the old 90 dB noise limit for the subjective limit at which "peace is breached" on the Fox River. The ordinance was introduce because decibel meters were unreliable on the Fox River, where sound bounces off buildings, and many window-rattling violators were having their tickets thrown out in court. First, second, and third noise violations carry minimum $35, $200, and $500 fines respectively.

Chicago, Illinois, "Poor Weather Forces Rescheduling of Noise Tests to Help Boaters Comply with New Noise Law on Chicago area's Chain o' Lakes" (May 24, 1999). The Chicago Tribune reports that noise tests, designed to help boaters comply with a new noise ordinance on the Chicago area's Chain o' Lakes, were poorly attended due to miserable weather. The tests will be rescheduled for early June. The new ordinance starts with the state-mandated 90 dB limit for idling boats and 70 dB for moving boats, but gives marine officers the ability to determine excessive noise by ear since traditional noise-measuring equipment is designed for use on the open water.

Chicago, Illinois, "Suburban Communities Surrounding Chicago's O'Hare Airport Say Soundproofing Should Include More Homes, Citing Noise Monitor Data Collected Independently" (May 25, 1999). The Chicago Daily Herald reports that the anti-noise Suburban O'Hare Commission (SOC) has been monitoring noise from the airport independently of the city. SOC claims that the data shows high levels of noise up to 80 decibels in communities not covered in this year's soundproofing eligibility list. Gigi Gruber, mayor of one nearby community, says "they average out the silent times with the noisy times and come up with a number. But when airplanes fly over, noise is still at a high level.

Chicago, Illinois, "Chicago O'Hare Airport's Noise Compatibility Commission Asks FAA to Ban Older, Noisy Planes" (Jun. 5, 1999). The Chicago Tribune reports that Chicago O'Hare Airport's Noise Compatibility Commission -- following the lead of the European Union -- is asking the FAA to ban noisier aircraft that don't meet quiet-engine standards. Hush-kits can muffle some noise from older airplanes, but the engines still don't run as quiet as those in newer aircraft. New federal standards take effect next year, but O'Hare also encouraged the FAA to begin cooperative work on an even quieter set of noise standards that could be accepted internationally.

Chicago, Illinois, "Chicago O'Hare Joins Airport Council International in Encouraging the FAA to Phase Out Older Planes, Allowing Much Quieter New Planes to Take Over" (May 13, 1999). The Chicago Tribune reports that many U.S. airports and residents are concerned that while quieter planes are available, airlines are continuing to put hush-kits and performance-modification kits on noisier planes. While these kits quiet planes enough to meet year 2000 standards, the newer, quieter planes are up to 3 times as quiet. Some airports, including Chicago O'Hare, are joining Airport Council International in asking the FAA to phase out the older modified planes.

Chicago, Illinois, "Noise Monitors at Chicago's O'Hare Airport Say Noise is Decreasing, but Some Say Data May Be Misleading" (May 9, 1999). The Chicago Daily Herald reports that 8 of 37 noise monitors at Chicago O'Hare's Airport show that aircraft noise is decreasing. Compared to last year, the first three months of this year were quieter by one or two decibels -- the smallest discernible amount measurable -- and noise complaints were down too. Some of the change may have to do with quieter aircraft being used.

Chicago, Illinois, "Chicago, Illinois Proposal to Double Property Tax Break for Homes in Airport Noise Zone Draws Varied Reactions" (Nov. 15, 1999). The Chicago Tribune reports that a proposal to double the property tax break given to those in 65-decibel-or-higher noise zones around Midway and O'Hare International Airports has drawn mixed reactions. Some say it's a good idea and will better protect residents, while others worry where the money would come from.

Chicago, Illinois, "Chicago Tax Lawyer Proposes Property Tax Break for Illinois Residents Impacted By 65 Decibels or More of Airport Noise" (Nov. 17, 1999). The Chicago Daily Herald reports that a Chicago tax lawyer has proposed a property tax exemption for residents who deal with 65 decibels of noise from airports. Residents support the idea, which would be equal to the current general homestead exemption: about $300-$500.

Chicago, Illinois, "Elementary School Students in Elk Grove, Illinois will Relocate for Four Months in 2000-2001 School Year While Their Old School Is Soundproofed" (Nov. 14, 1999). The Chicago Daily Herald reports that students at Clearmont Elementary School in Elk Grove Village, Illinois will be relocated to a nearby school for four months in the 2000-2001 school year while their old school is soundproofed from noise at nearby O'Hare airport.

Chicago, Illinois, "Homeowners Near Chicago's Midway Airport Want Doubled Property Tax Relief for Noise Burden" (Nov. 15, 1999). The Chicago Sun-Times reports that homeowners near Chicago's Midway Airport launched a campaign to double the property tax relief given to residents state-wide who live near airports.

Chicago, Illinois, "Chicago's O'Hare Airport Will Give Oak Park Community Temporary Noise Monitor Next Year; Community Will Keep Monitor If Noise Levels Are Relatively High" (Nov. 24, 1999). The Chicago Sun-Times reports that Chicago's O'Hare Airport will be giving several communities -- including Oak Park -- a temporary noise monitor to keep track of aircraft noise in the area to see if noise levels warrant a permanent one.

Chicago, Illinois, "Subdivision Residents in Western Chicago Are Irritated By Noisy Trucking Operation that Moved In Nearby" (Dec. 4, 1999). The Chicago Daily Herald reports that residents of a western Chicago subdivision are irritated that a trucking operation moved in next door where before there was only a cornfield. County officials hired sound engineers to test noise from the site, and found that the business was not meeting noise limits. The matter is now in court, and the business owners note that they have already spent $30,000 on a gravel lot and fence to move trucks away from residents.

Chicago, Illinois, "Noise Case Against Cook County, Illinois Judge is Reassigned to Preserve Impartiality; Neighbors Claim Granite Floors Cause Too Much Noise" (Nov. 10, 1999). The Chicago Sun-Times reports that a noise case against a Cook County, Illinois judge has been reassigned after the first judge said she was a friend of the defendant/judge. The judge plans to carpet his granite floors, though he claims that much of the noise his neighbor complains about is not produced by them.

Chicago, Illinois, "Proposal to Increase Tax Exemption for Homeowners Impacted By Chicago Jet Noise Supported By Local Noise Activist Group; School and Municipal Officials Worry About Who Will Make Up the Difference" (Nov. 11, 1999). The Chicago Daily Herald reports that a proposal to double the property tax exemption for homeowners affected by Chicago-area airports has gained support from the Alliance of Residents Concerning O'Hare. Officials worry that other tax districts would have to pick up the tab, but some say that "previous court decisions require airports to reimburse taxing districts for lost tax revenue."

Chicago, Illinois, "Illinois Communities Will Compete for $25 Million in State Funds Allocated to Pay For Up to Half of Highway Noise Barriers" (Oct. 17, 1999). The Chicago Daily Herald prints several short articles on the week's news in local communities. One article deals with the Route 53 communities of Arlington Heights, Rolling Meadows, and Palatine which are expected to ask for some of the $25 million that Illinois has made available for paying up to half of highway noise barrier projects nationwide. Competition among communities for the money is expected to be stiff.

Chicago, Illinois, "Chicago O'Hare Airport Officials Say Soundproofing Program Will Continue Throughout 2000, When Official FAA Noise Maps Are Released; Some Had Predicted that Program Would Stop As Stricter Federal Noise Laws Caused a Reduction of Noise Levels" (Nov. 5, 1999). The Chicago Tribune reports that officials at Chicago's O'Hare Airport have said that their home soundproofing program will not end this year. It is possible that some homes will no longer be affected with enough noise -- 70 decibels -- to qualify for noise insulation, but the Airport can't be sure until at least 2001 when the FAA releases it's official 2000 noise contour map.

Chicago, Illinois, "Seven Chicago Schools Will Receive Soundproofing, Since School Soundproofing Budget Doubled From Last Year" (Nov. 6, 1999). The Chicago Daily Herald reports that seven schools in the Chicago area were chosen to receive soundproofing next year. The budget for school soundproofing was expanded to include three more schools this year than last year, and was raised from airline ticket fees.

Chicago, Illinois, "Seven Chicago-Area Schools Will Receive Soundproofing Next Year" (Nov. 6, 1999). The Chicago Sun-Times reports that seven schools in the Chicago area were chosen to receive soundproofing next year.

Chicago, Illinois, "DuPage County, Near Chicago's O'Hare International Airport, Debating Whether to Expand O'Hare or Build a Third Regional Airport; Concerns Over Expanding O'Hare Shifting from Noise to Safety" (Sep. 17, 1999). The Chicago Tribune reports that residents and politicians in DuPage county, Illinois near Chicago's O'Hare International Airport are debating the question of how to handle a doubling of air traffic at O'Hare in the next twenty years: expand the airport, or build a third regional airport. Viewpoints of regional politicians center on issues from local safety concerns, to regional air-capacity concerns, to national infrastructure concerns. Those who want a new airport are less concerned with noise -- which was the central concern for many years -- and more worried about dangerously-crowded skies and runways.

Chicago, Illinois, "Chicago Aviation Department Publishes Booklet to Show Those Who Don't Qualify for Free Soundproofing How to Get it Done Themselves" (Sep. 7, 1999). The Chicago Sun-Times reports on several happenings around the city of Chicago, including the release of a soundproofing booklet by the Chicago Aviation Department. The booklet discusses what needs to be done and who to contact about doing the work. While the information is intended for those who don't qualify for free soundproofing due to airplane noise, a local anti-noise group said the city should be paying for more soundproofing instead of giving advice.

Chicago, Illinois, "Chicago, O'Hare Airport Neighbor Suggests a More Automated Noise Hotline" (Sep. 5, 1999). The Chicago Sun-Times prints a series of letters to the editor, one of which is noise-related. A resident near Chicago's O'Hare Airport says that the old-fashioned noise-hotline should be upgraded so callers need not be "subjected to a series of ridiculous questions" after being awakened from sleep at night. He suggests a modified form of caller ID.

Chicago, Illinois, "Chicago is a Noisy City and Residents Suffer" (Apr. 16, 2000). The Chicago-Times printed an editorial in the Sunday edition about the impact of noise from many different sources has on residents in the Chicago-area.

Chicago, Illinois, "Chicago's O'Hare Airport Expansion Subject of Heated Controversy Because of Increase in Jet Noise" (Apr. 20, 2000). The Chicago Tribune printed an editorial about the expansion of O'Hare International Airport, its supporters and opponents. The editorial supports the expansion of the airport by adding a third runway.

Chicago, Illinois, "Chicago's O'Hare Expansion Plans Fuel Debate Between Wealthy Corporations and Concerned Citizens" (Apr. 20, 2000). The Chicago Daily Herald reported that a proposed new runway at O'Hare International Airport received support from wealthy corporations known for supporting political campaigns, but not from residents who live nearby.

Chicago, Illinois, "Coping With Noise Involves Action" (Apr. 16, 2000). The Chicago Sun-Times printed an article about resolving noise complaints. The article, while brief, listed steps to take to resolve the complaint. The article recommended first solving the problem by going to the source and conducting a reasonable discussion.

Chicago, Illinois, "Modern Technology's Negative Impact: 50% Hearing Loss in Some People" (Apr. 16, 2000). According to the Chicago Sun-Times, today's modern society is hazardous to our hearing, and overexposure to loud noise can mean a permanent loss of hearing, affecting such known figures as Pete Townshend, Peter Frampton and President Clinton.

Chicago, Illinois, "Chicago Reader Questions City Aviation Commissioner's Contention That Noise From Midway Airport Does Not Affect Property Values" (Apr. 7, 2000). The Chicago Sun-Times printed a selection of letters to the editor. One of them was from a resident who lives near Midway Airport and is concerned about noise pollution. The letter is reprinted here in its entirety:

Chicago, Illinois, "O'Hare International Airport in Chicago May Be First Airport to Use Computer Program to Keep Planes on Quiet Paths" (Apr. 8, 2000). The Chicago Daily Herald reports that a new computerized system that will help keep planes on a quiet takeoff path may be implemented by the end of the summer at O'Hare International Airport.

Chicago, Illinois, "Illinois Condo Boards Should Be Concerned About Noise" (Feb. 4, 2000). The Chicago Sun-Times printed an article about condo living and noise, highlighting how to reduce it and how to deal with noisy neighbors, but remarking that noise is often defined in subjective terms and that our attitudes about it are as various as people.

Chicago, Illinois, "Illinois Tenants Encouraged to Make Sound Improvements Against Noise" (Feb. 4, 2000). The Chicago Sun-Times suggested several ways to insulate a residence against noise.

Chicago, Illinois, "Chicago Train Horn Noise Battle Returns" (Jan. 13, 2000). The Chicago Daily Herald reported that Edison Park residents must renew their battle with train noise on the Wisconsin Central line at all hours of the night unless they pay for costly improvements at rail crossings, or so says the Federal Railroad Association.

Chicago, Illinois, "Tax Break for Chicago Homeowners Near O'Hare Not on Town Ballots" (Jan. 14, 2000). The Chicago Tribune reports that former state treasurer Pat Quinn's attempt to give property tax breaks to homeowners who live near O'Hare Airport failed to get support from local townships and municipalities. Only Stickney Township will put the question on the town's ballot.

Chicago, Illinois, "O'Hare Noise Levels Monitored by City of Chicago and Suburban O'Hare Commission for Past Three Years Have Not Yet Been Properly Analyzed" (Mar. 16, 2000). 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.

Chicago, Illinois, "Chicago, Illinois Automobile Owner Hears Grinding Noise in Car Brakes" (Mar. 20, 2000). The Chicago Sun-Times automotive question and answer section reports that a reader has a problem with his 1999 Dodge Intrepid. When the reader puts on the brakes, he hears a grinding noise. A Dodge dealer told him that condensation had built up on the brakes and was causing the noise. The dealer wiped off the brakes, but indicated that the grinding noise will come back.

Chicago, Illinois, "O'Hare Noise Compatibility Commission Discusses "Fly Quiet" Program" (Mar. 29, 2000). The Chicago Tribune reports that the O'Hare Noise Compatibility Commission is creating a recognition awards program that will give airline companies an incentive to comply with its "Fly Quiet" program. Commission Chairwoman Arlene Mulder, who is also mayor of Arlington Heights, made the announcement at a public meeting recently in Arlington Heights. Airlines would be rated according to their compliance with Fly Quiet.

Chicago, Illinois and Dallas, Texas, "Love Airfield in Dallas Looks to Chicago's Midway Airport for Growth Strategies" (Oct. 26, 1997). The Chicago Tribune printed an article in which an in-depth comparison is made between the Love Airfield in Dallas, Texas and the Midway Airport in Chicago, Illinois. Both airports are located in inner-city neighborhoods, and both play second fiddle to two of the world's largest airports. While Midway has experienced a small, but promising revitalization in recent years, Love Field's re-development is in an earlier stage. However, Congress currently is debating whether to make changes to the Wright amendment, a federal law that restricts flights from Love Field to destinations within Texas and its four neighboring states. Changes to the Wright amendment could improve the revitalization prospects for Love Field. Meanwhile, some Dallas residents oppose any increase in flights to and from Love Field because of increases in noise, pollution, and congestion.

Chicago, Illinois and Washington, DC, "U.S. Senate Committee Approves 100 More Daily Flights at Chicago's Airport" (Jul. 15, 1998). The Chicago Tribune reports that the Senate Commerce Committee voted 11-9 Tuesday to approve legislation that could add 100 commercial flights per day at Chicago's O'Hare International Airport, the world's busiest airport. Senators voted on the legislation after listening to a last-minute, unannounced appeal against the bill from U.S. Senator Carol Moseley-Braun (D-Illinois), who is not a member of the committee. The article notes that the legislation is part of a national aviation bill, and it now advances to the full Senate, where a fight is expected between senators who want to increase flights around the country and those who represent constituents battling airport noise and traffic.

Chicago, Illinois area, ""Hush House" Is the Latest Noise Mitigation Measure at Chicago's O'Hare Airport" (May 2, 1997). The Chicago Tribune reports that in order to mitigate noise from nighttime aircraft engine maintenance tests at Chicago's O'Hare International Airport, a "hush house," or a Ground Run-Up Enclosure, has been built to muffle the noise at the north end of the airport. The enclosure is the first one built at a commercial airport in the U.S.

Chicago, Illinois area, "Chicago and Suburb of Bensenville Argue Over Who Can Talk at Public Meeting About Airport Soundproofing Plan" (Aug. 3, 1997). The Chicago Sun-Times reports that officials in Bensenville, Illinois invited residents to a meeting Tuesday to learn about how and when soundproofing would be done in a program to dampen jet noise from O'Hare International Airport. The article says that Chicago aviation officials were furious when they weren't allowed to do the talking, but contractors were.

Chicago, Illinois area, "Chicago Suburbs Say Jet Traffic as Noisy as Ever After Mayor's "Fly Quiet" Plan Introduced" (Jul. 13, 1997). The Chicago Sun-Times reports that the new "Fly Quiet" program at Chicago's O'Hare International Airport isn't working, according to officials from some suburbs. The voluntary program was launched June 17 in an attempt to get pilots and air traffic controllers to undertake routes and procedures that will help mitigate jet noise. The program included diverting nighttime flights to unpopulated areas and quieting engine tests on the runways.

Chicago, Illinois area, "Airlines Agree to Follow Flight Paths to Reduce Nighttime Jet Noise Over Chicago" (Jun. 18, 1997). The Chicago Sun-Times reports that executives from United and American Airlines serving Chicago's O'Hare Airport agreed Tuesday to follow long-ignored flight paths designed to reduce nighttime jet noise that disturbs suburban residents. The flight paths call for pilots to fly over industrial parks, railroad tracks, forest preserves, and expressways at night. The flight paths are already in place, but according to Aviation Commissioner Mary Rose Loney, they have been "largely ignored due to unawareness." Loney maintains that compliance will increase now that airlines and the unions representing air traffic controllers and pilots have backed the plan.

Chicago, Illinois area, "Chicago's New "Fly Quiet" Program Designed to Get Pilots to Comply With Noise Abatement Procedures" (Jun. 27, 1997). The Chicago Tribune reports in an editorial that although Chicago has had noise abatement procedures in place for years for flights at O'Hare International and Midway Airports, some airline pilots and air-traffic controllers have not been following the procedures, having other priorities on their minds. The editorial says that now, due to the intervention of Mayor Richard Daley and his new commissioner of aviation and their "Fly Quiet" program, the airlines may actually come around and follow the procedures.

Chicago, Illinois area, "Lawsuit Between Chicago Suburb and City Over Soundproofing Against Airport Noise is Settled" (Jul. 4, 1997). The Chicago Tribune reports that a lawsuit brought in May by the village of Bensenville (Illinois) against the city of Chicago, alleging that the city had ignored Bensenville and other member towns in the Suburban O'Hare Commission in picking homes for soundproofing this year, has been settled. Under the terms of the settlement, an additional $11.4 million will be spent this year on soundproofing near the O'Hare International Airport for 344 more homes in Bensenville, Des Plaines, and unincorporated parts of DuPage and Cook Counties. Meanwhile, the chair of the recently formed O'Hare Noise Compatibility Commission hoped the settlement would be the beginning of a more cooperative effort to solve airport noise problems, but members of the Suburban O'Hare Commission continued to insist that the Noise Compatibility Commission, formed by Chicago's mayor, was simply a mouthpiece for the city.

Chicago, Illinois area, "Chicago and Suburban Group Both Test Aircraft Noise" (Jun. 12, 1997). National Public Radio reports that the city of Chicago and the suburbs that surround O'Hare International Airport have both unveiled high-tech equipment to determine how loud the airport really is. Although both parties, which have been fighting about airport noise for years, originally agreed to share their independent noise data, that agreement has broken down.

Chicago, Illinois area, "Vans in Chicago Suburbs Ready to Log O'Hare Airport Noise" (May 22, 1997). The Chicago Tribune reports that Wednesday, six new noise monitoring vans were officially placed in service by the Suburban O'Hare Commission, a group of 11 suburbs that opposes expansion of the O'Hare International Airport.

Chicago, Illinois area, "Arlington Heights Takes a Step Toward Joining Supporters of a Third Airport in Chicago Area" (Dec. 2, 1997). The Chicago Tribune reports that the Village Board in Arlington Heights, Illinois has asked its Advisory Committee on O'Hare International Airport noise to consider the merits of joining a coalition of supporters of a third airport in the Chicago area. If Arlington Heights decides to join the coalition, the article reports, it would be the first northwest suburb other than those in the Suburban O'Hare Commission (a group opposed to O'Hare expansion) to back a third airport.

Chicago, Illinois area, "Chicago Airport Construction is Likely to Send More Jet Noise Over Some Neighborhoods" (Apr. 22, 1998). The Chicago Daily Herald reports that the O'Hare International Airport in Chicago, Illinois has started its annual maintenance project to repair roadways, taxiways, and runways. The project, which will cost at least $25 million, is likely to bring more noise to some suburbs and less noise to other suburbs.

Chicago, Illinois area, "U.S. Senate Strikes a Deal for 30 More Flights at Chicago Airport Instead of 100" (Jul. 17, 1998). The Chicago Daily Herald reports that a U.S. Senate committee brokered an agreement Thursday that calls for 30 more daily commercial takeoffs and landings at Chicago's O'Hare International Airport instead of the 100 flights proposed last week. The article notes that the revised bill still must be approved by the full Senate and then reconciled with a House bill that calls for 29 new daily commercial flights.

Chicago, Illinois area, "Senate Plan to Add Flights at Chicago Airport Draws Angry Reaction from Local Residents and Officials" (Jul. 9, 1998). The Chicago Daily Herald reports that activists in the Chicago, Illinois area are angry about a bill in the Senate that would add 100 daily flights at O'Hare International Airport. The bill is scheduled for a vote in a Senate committee today, the article notes. It would still need the approval of the full Senate, and then would need to be reconciled with a House bill.

Chicago, Illinois area, "OHare Noise Compatibility Commission Marks First Year" (Mar. 7, 1998). The Chicago Tribune reports that the O'Hare Noise Compatibility Commission marked its first anniversary Friday by noting its achievements.

Chicago, Illinois area, "Chicago Looks for Consultant to Discourage Plans for a Third Chicago-Area Airport" (Mar. 23, 1998). The Chicago Tribune reports that the Chicago mayor's administration is searching for a public relations expert who would help discourage the idea of a third Chicago-area airport at a cost of about $180,000 per year. The consultant hired will help develop a strategy to defeat the movement for a regional airport near rural Peotone, and to prevent any of the more than $100 million in passenger taxes that Chicago collects annually at O'Hare International and Midway Airports from being used to build or operate a competing facility, according to city documents. The money to pay for the consultant would come out of the $3 tax on airline passengers at O'Hare and Midway.

Chicago, Illinois area, "Suburbs Don't Get Promised Reimbursement for Noise Monitors from Chicago, so They Turn to State for Money" (Mar. 26, 1998). The Chicago Tribune reports that a year ago, Chicago suburbs disturbed by noise from the O'Hare International Airport bought a noise monitoring system that was supposed to be paid for by the City of Chicago. But the money from Chicago never arrived, the article says, and now the suburban mayors have asked the Illinois Department of Transportation to pick up the cost, amounting to $787,000.

Chicago, Nov. 29, 1999, "Toshiba Introduces MRI Scanner that Reduces Noise for Patient By 90%" (Nov. 29, 1999). Business Wire reports that Toshiba has introduced an MRI scanner that is 90% quieter than previous models.

Christchurch, New Zealand, "Newer Classrooms Noisy and Impede Learning in New Zealand" (Apr. 17, 2000). According to the Press in New Zealand, a study resulting from teacher complaints showed that newly constructed school buildings are noisier than older ones, and listening conditions in the older builders were unsatisfactory.

Christchurch, NZ, "New Zealanders Look to Preserve Natural Quiet in National Parks; Helicopter Buzzing is Main Concern" (Jun. 27, 1998). The Press reports helicopter noise is annoying visitors and ruining the natural quiet in New Zealand's national parks. Conservation and park groups are taking measures to avoid the over-flying that has plagued the US's Grand Canyon.

Christianburg, Virginia, "Virginia Confronts Suburban Sprawl" (Dec. 12, 1997). The Roanoke Times and World News reports that a lumber company expansion and the Brush Mountain subdivision case in Christianburg, Virginia show the limits of the law intended to contain suburban sprawl. The article says the two cases may be catalysts for change.

Christiansburg, Virginia, "Virginia Sawmill Expansion Opposed By Neighbors" (Dec. 19, 1997). The Roanoke Times & World News reports that the proposed expansion of a Lumber Mill in Christiansburg Virginia has citizens alarmed. Neighbors worry about added noise and other environmental pollution.

Chula Vista, California, "Chula Vista, California Mayor Responds to Criticism of Council's Cautious Position on Brown Field Expansion" (Dec. 3, 1999). The San Diego Union-Tribune prints a statement by Chula Vista, California's Mayor in response to criticism of the city council's cautious position on expansion at Brown Field. Chula Vista is attempting to create a job-housing balanced community by adhering to a policy of business-friendly "smart growth," and is cautious about questionable data in the airport's environmental impact statement.

Cicero, Illinois, "Former Horse Track in Cicero, Illinois Converted into Chicago Motor Speedway; Residents Worry About the Noise" (Aug. 20, 1999). The Chicago Sun-Times reports that a 67,000 seat racetrack in Cicero, Illinois -- formerly used only for horse races -- will soon be the home of Chicago Motor Speedway. Residents are worried about increased traffic and noise. Officials emphasized that because of $50 million in improvements to the track, the community will receive more property taxes.

Cicero, Illinois, "Chicago Motor Speedway Draws Noise Warning for First Race" (Aug. 25, 1999). The Associated Press State & Local Wire reports that the Chicago Motor Speedway's first race was twice as loud as normal traffic, and warranted a warning ticket from the County. Track officials don't believe they're violating any laws, but plan to meet with county representative next week.

Cicero, Illinois, "Two Letters to the Editor Criticize Chicago's New Motor Speedway for Exceeding Noise Standards" (Aug. 26, 1999). The Chicago Sun-Times prints several letters to the editor including two that criticize the new Chicago Motor Speedway for exceeding noise standards. The first letter is bitingly concise. The second -- from an attendee of the first race -- says the track should have done more research to prevent the problem in the first place.

Cicero, Illinois, "Chicago Motor Speedway Will Not Be Fined For Noise Violations While It Begins to Address the Problem" (Sep. 3, 1999). Chicago Sun-Times reports that Cicero, Illinois' Chicago Motor Speedway will not be fined the requisite $1000/event for noise violations while it hires a consultant and begins a dialogue with residents. Races and their 70,000 fans can generate noise up to 93.5 decibels -- far above the 58 decibel limit. The final race of the year will be monitored by county officials to determine the areas most affected by noise.

Cincinatti, Ohio, "A Range of Noise from Slight to Loud Can Damage Hearing" (Feb. 16, 2000). According to the Cincinatti Enquirer, damage to the ear that can eventually result in a hearing loss is not always caused by a prolonged, loud noise.

Cincinnati, Ohio, "Ohio Residents Battle Truck Noise and Dust From Noisy Warehouse" (Jun. 6, 1998). The Cincinnati Enquirer reports that residents in Cincinnati, Ohio are complaining about the noise, dust, and other problems at the Carthage Mills warehouse complex near their homes. In response to the problem, Cincinnati Mayor Roxanne Qualls has introduced a motion that would change the zoning in the area to residential uses only, which would force Carthage Mills to move.

Cincinnati, Ohio, "Expansion of Kroger's in Cincinnati Subject of Complaints" (Apr. 20, 2000). The Cincinnati Enquirer reported that the expansion of a Kroger store has drawn complaints from neighbors, businesses and city officials over noise and appearance.

Cincinnati, Ohio area, "Ohio County Auditor Seeks Results of Airport Noise Monitoring" (May 29, 1997). The Cincinnati Enquirer reports that Hamilton County (Ohio) Auditor Dusty Rhodes, concerned about loud airplane noise over western Hamilton County on Memorial Day weekend from the Cincinnati - Northern Kentucky International Airport, has informally asked Delhi Township Administrator Joseph Morency for the results of independent aircraft noise monitoring. Morency said he is working to compare the data from the independent system with data from the airport's monitoring system to make sure the former is accurate, and he hopes to provide the data to Rhodes within a few weeks.

Cirencester, Gloucestershire County, England, "Gloucestershire Protesters Block Road for Peace and Quiet" (Apr. 10, 1998). The Gloucestershire Echo of England reports protesters brought traffic to a halt as they staged a march against noise pollution from the new Cirencester bypass.

Cirencester, Gloucestershire County, England, "Road Noise from New Bypass Drives Family From Home; Residents Ask for Road Resurfacing" (Apr. 11, 1998). The Gloucestershire Echo of England reports a resident says excessive road noise is forcing him out of his home near the new Cirencester bypass.

Clarence, New York, "New York Town to Draft Noise Ordinance in Response to Resident Complaints" (Jul. 10, 1997). The Buffalo News reports that the Town Board in Clarence, New York has directed its planning office to come up with a draft noise ordinance to address complaints about an unacceptable level of neighbhorhood noise.

Clark County, Nevada, "Nevada County Commission Faces Residents Angry Over Proposal to Let Prospective Property Buyers Know About Jet Noise" (Apr. 23, 1998). The Las Vegas Review-Journal reports that hundreds of residents packed a Clark County (Nevada) Commission meeting Wednesday, complaining that a proposal to let prospective property buyers know about jet noise from the McCarran International Airport will lower their property values. Commissioners promised the residents that a compromise would be developed during the next month, and would be considered at the May 20 meeting. The article notes that the proposal also would apply to land around Nellis Air Force Base, but none of the residents living in the proposed zone around the base complained at the meeting.

Clark County, Nevada, "Nevada County Commission Delays Decision on New Noise Guidelines for Residents Near Airport" (May 21, 1998). The Las Vegas Review-Journal reports that the Clark County (Nevada) Commission on Wednesday postponed a decision about whether to adopt new noise guidelines for homes and businesses near McCarran International Airport. The guidelines would adopt a new map that shows noise levels around the airport. Many of the residents and merchants that live in the proposed 60-decibel zone are angry at the proposal, believing it would lower their property values.

Clark County, Nevada, "Nevada Home Owners Reject New Noise Zones Near McCarran Airport" (Sep. 17, 1998). The Las Vegas Review-Journal reports Nevada's Clark County Commission indefinitely postponed action Wednesday on a new, noise zone, due to vigorous opposition from residents near McCarran International Airport who fear property devaluation.

Clark County, Washington, "Some Say Police Firing Range Incompatible with Quiet Use Redevelopment Plans for WA Army Post" (May 15, 1998). The Columbian of Vancouver, Washington, reports Clark County commissioners decided Thursday that a redevelopment plan for a former Army post should include police firing ranges, much to the dismay of nearby residents.

Clark County, Washington, "Foes of Clark County, Washington Amphitheater Hold Rally to Emphasize That "It's Not Over Yet"" (Dec. 8, 1999). The Columbian reports that opponents of a proposed 18,000-seat amphitheater in Clark County, Washington will hold a rally this weekend to increase public awareness and support. Stop the Amphitheater Today (STAT) has a lawsuit pending against the builders. Builders and officials say that the amphitheater's concerts are public and so are allowed to exceed the noise limits for private events; opponents say the concerts should be considered private. STAT is seeking earlier ending times, lower noise limits and an official environmental impact statement.

Clark County, Washington, "Washington Man Claims Toy Airplanes Violate County Ordinance" (Feb. 16, 2000). According to an article in The Columbian, a Clark County man complained about model airplane noise at a nearby fairground so vociferously that county commissioners ordered sound tests.

Clarksville, Tennessee, "Developers' Plans to Build Subdivision Near Tennessee Army Helicopter Base is Scuttled" (Jun. 9, 1998). The Tennessean reports that plans for a subdivision near the Fort Campbell Military Reservation near Clarksville, Tennessee have been scuttled due to concerns about noise from the Sabre Army Heliport and other reasons. Developers say that Army officials did not raise noise concerns until they already had invested money in roads and other infrastructure for the subdivision. Now, developers believe they have no alternative but to sell the land to the Army, but say they stand to lose millions on the deal.

Clay County, Florida, "Clay County, Florida Commissioners Consider Revising Ordinance to Make it More Objective" (Jan. 1, 2000). The Florida Times-Union reports that commissioners in Clay County, Florida are considering a revision of their noise ordinance to make it more objective.

Clayton, Missouri, "Clayton, Missouri Resident Believes Motorized Vehicles Should Stay Out of National Forests" (Jan. 5, 2000). The St. Louis Post-Dispatch prints a letter to the editor from a reader who believes that noisy motorized vehicles have no place in our national forests, where they can harm wildlife.

Clearwater, Florida, "Florida Library Patrons Disturbed by Noise from Kids in the Children's Section" (Aug. 15, 1997). The St. Petersburg Times reports that patrons of the Countryside library branch in Clearwater, Florida have complained about children's voices carrying through the building ever since the library opened nine years ago. The children's section is not separated from the rest of the library in a separate room, and proposals for an addition to the library to solve the problem have met with funding limitations, the article explains.

Clermont, Florida, "Florida Residents Fight Proposed Sand-Mining Operation" (Nov. 27, 1997). The Orlando Sentinel Tribune reports that mining company Tarmac America has plans to move a sand-mining operation in Clermont, Florida to a 321-acre parcel of land in south Lake County off Hartwood Marsh Road. Residents near the proposed site are gearing up to fight the plan, which they say will drain or taint water supplies, cause excessive noise, and disrupt the calm atmosphere of the rural neighborhood.

Cleveland, Ohio, "Soundproofing In Cleveland Area Homes Goes Sour" (Dec. 27, 1997). The Plain Dealer reports that efforts by the city of Cleveland to soundproof homes in the Cleveland-Hopkins International Airport area have gone sour.

Cleveland, Ohio, "Cleveland Officials Express Frustration Over Airport Expansion Project at Conference in Philadelphia" (Dec. 7, 1997). The Plain Dealer reports that Cleveland (Ohio) City Councilmen Edward W. Rybka and Michael Dolan came to the 1997 National League of Cities conference to pick up new governing ideas that would energize them for the year ahead and expressed frustration over delays in expanding the Cleveland Hopkins International Airport.

Cleveland, Ohio, "New Cleveland Freeway to Get Noise Barriers" (May 31, 1997). The Plain Dealer reports that the Jennings Freeway, which is being built in the Old Brooklyn neighborhood of Cleveland, Ohio, will be accompanied by noise barriers to protect residential neighborhoods from traffic noise. The 2.7-mile, six-land freeway will link Interstates 71 and 480. Some residents are happy about the noise barriers, while other worry that the barriers will be ugly and that grafitti artists will make them uglier. The Ohio Department of Transportation gathered public input about the type of noise barriers residents want Thursday, and will forward the comments to the Cleveland City Council, which has the final decision on the type of noise barriers the city gets.

Cleveland, Ohio, "Letters-to-the-Editor Debate Benefits and Costs of Rail Acquisition in Ohio" (Nov. 13, 1997). The Plain Dealer printed the following letters-to-the-editor regarding the proposed sale of Conrail to Norfolk-Southern and CSX railroads in the Cleveland, Ohio area:

Cleveland, Ohio, "Cleveland Police Say Noise Ordinance Will be Enforced at Freeway Construction Site" (Sep. 27, 1997). The Plain Dealer reports that Cleveland (Ohio) police say they will begin to crack down on nighttime construction workers at the new Jennings Freeway site because of noise complaints from nearby residents. Police were to begin monitoring the site last night and issuing citations for violating the city noise ordinance if necessary. Police had previously told residents there was nothing they could do about the nighttime noise because the construction company had a 24-hour work permit.

Cleveland, Ohio, "Cleveland City Police Fine Road Crew Workers for Noisy Nighttime Work" (Sep. 28, 1997). The Plain Dealer reports that the Cleveland (Ohio) police fined two employees of the construction company building the Jennings Freeway for making too much noise late Friday night. The police's action came after residents living near the construction project complained about the late-night noise.

Cleveland, Ohio, "Cleveland Railroad Will Use Noise-Reduction Plan if Merger Approved" (Jan. 23, 1998). The Plain Dealer of Cleveland, Ohio, reports that CSX Transportation's efforts to convince federal officials to approve a railroad merger, includes promises to enhance neighborhoods in Cleveland and East Cleveland, including re-routing some trains and implementing a noise-reduction plan.

Cleveland, Ohio, "CSXT Unveils Noise Mitigation Plans for Cleveland" (Jan. 22, 1998). PR Newswire reports CSX Transportation Inc. (CSXT) announced its plan today for noise berms and attractive landscaping adjacent to the sections of Conrail track it plans to obtain in the Greater Cleveland Metropolitan Area.

Cleveland, Ohio, "Plans for Expansion at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport in Ohio Creates Tensions with Neighboring Communities and Residents" (Jun. 18, 1998). The Plain Dealer reports that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) will be looking into the noise complaints of residents and public officials in neighboring communities as a part of an environmental study to be completed before the expansion of Cleveland Hopkins International Airport begins. The expansion is intended to give it the ability to handle more flights. Neighbors are already worried about the loud rumbling of airplanes and are wondering if that noise problem will only get worse, the article said.

Cleveland, Ohio, "Cleveland's City Council Asks FAA to Follow Through on Home Insulation Despite New Noise Exposure Map" (Jul. 1, 1998). The Plain Dealer reports Cleveland City Council members are working to make sure residents near Cleveland Hopkins International Airport who have waited years to get their homes insulated from jet noise actually receive the government-financed improvements. The council is also urging the Federal Aviation Administration to block the sale of land north of the airport unless a consultant conclusively determines the land is not needed for the airport.

Cleveland, Ohio, "Ohio Politicians Win Concessions from Railroad Companies Seeking Changes to Freight Traffic" (Jun. 5, 1998). The Plain Dealer printed an editorial that argues the mayors in the Cleveland, Ohio area, along with congressional representatives, should feel they've served their constituents well in their successful campaigns to win concessions from two major railroads seeking to alter the pattern of freight traffic through Northeast Ohio. The editorial says that Representative Dennis Kucinich and Cleveland Mayor Michael White were especially successful in getting CSX Transportation and Norfolk Southern to commit tens of millions of dollars to mitigate the impact on residents living near the tracks.

Cleveland, Ohio, "Railroad Agrees to Spend $13.1 Million to Mitigate Noise on Ohio Tracks" (Jun. 5, 1998). The Plain Dealer reports that Cleveland (Ohio) Mayor Michael White and officials from CSX Transportation agreed yesterday in a last-minute deal to a plan that would help mitigate noise if a proposed railroad merger goes forward. CSX Transportation and Norfolk Southern Railroads have proposed purchasing and dividing the Conrail lines through Cleveland, and the federal Surface Transportation Board currently is considering the deal. But many local officials initially opposed the plans, and Mayor White was set to register his objections to the merger yesterday before he reached an agreement with railroad officials. CSX officials agreed to pay $13.1 million to help offset the noise and potential environmental and safety hazards anticipated in Cleveland due to the increased train traffic, and to divert some trains away from East Side neighborhoods. The federal agency is expected to rule on the merger on Monday.

Cleveland, Ohio, "Cleveland Says Airport Expansion Doesn't Mean Noise Increase; Mayor Announces Plans for Further Expansion while Airport Neighbors Continue to Wait for Home Soundproofing" (Oct. 16, 1998). The Plain Dealer reports the expansion of runways at Ohio's Cleveland Hopkins International Airport can happen while keeping any noise increase to a minimum, city officials said yesterday.

Cleveland, Ohio, "Editorial Points out Problems with Expansion for Cleveland Hopkins International Airport" (Oct. 2, 1998). The Plain Dealer published the following editorial, which raises concerns about the affect of noise in the face of the assumed expansion at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport.

Cleveland, Ohio, "Plans to Expand Cleveland's Airport Alarms Residents" (Oct. 1, 1998). The Plain Dealer reports that a newly released report to expand Cleveland's airport has alarmed area residents who feel the airport noise is already problematic.

Cleveland, Ohio, "Residents Say Quality of Life Ignored in Expansion Plans at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport" (Oct. 1, 1998). The Associated Press reports Ohio residents of suburbs near Cleveland Hopkins International Airport fear more airport expansion will mean more noise.

Cleveland, Ohio, "New Ohio Law Will Impose Fines on Loud Boats" (Aug. 6, 1999). The Associated Press State & Local Wire reports that as of January 1st, boat motorists with motors louder than 90 decibels will be given with a $100-$1,000 fine and up to six months in jail. Boaters with loud motors will be ordered to put on mufflers that cost from $400-$800.

Cleveland, Ohio, "Cleveland Homes Near Hopkins Airport Grandfathered to Get Noise Insulation Despite New Eligibility Rules" (Mar. 4, 1999). The Plain Dealer reports Cleveland homes on perimeter of a new airport noise zone will receive sound insulation through grandfathering.

Cleveland, Ohio, "Cleveland Hopkins International Airport Waits on FAA to Approve and Fund New Runway While Negotiating to Acquire Necessary Land" (May 2, 1999). The Plain Dealer reports that Cleveland Hopkins International Airport is waiting for an FAA decision, due in March of 2000, on the fate of their proposed new 6,500 foot runway which would cost well over $300 million. A long-term plan for a new runway has been held up by a battle between the airport and the nearby Brook Park community over a key piece of real-estate; while airport officials still claim they will need that runway within 15 years, the currently proposed runway would help reduce congestion at the airport over the short-term. The currently proposed runway would be 1,200 feet from an existing runway, which would allow simultaneous use of two runways only in good weather; the runway needed in the long-term would be 4,500 feet from any other runway, allowing simultaneous use in any weather.

Cleveland, Ohio, "Attempt by Cleveland, Ohio's Hopkins Airport to Preserve Homes' Eligibility for Noiseproofing Results in Expansion of Eligible Area" (Jun. 2, 1999). The Plain Dealer reports that as Cleveland, Ohio's Hopkins Airport phases in quieter aircraft and reduces its noise impact area, some homes that were eligible for soundproofing in the past would no longer be eligible. The proposed solution is to lower the decibel limit from 65 decibels to 60 decibels, which would assure that those who have already applied for soundproofing would not be removed from the list. As a result, hundreds of homes that were never eligible for soundproofing will now be able to apply. City council supports the idea, with the stipulation that those who have been on the list the longest be given priority.

Cleveland, Ohio, "Cleveland's Revitalized Warehouse District Gets Louder, Residents Complain" (Jun. 3, 1999). The Cleveland Scene reports that while Cleveland's previously decaying Warehouse District is now jumping with nightclubs, an equally expanding residential population -- currently 1,533 residents and expected to grow by another 500 this year -- is concerned about the noise from bands, noisy patrons, and traffic that continue past 2 AM. The Historic Warehouse District Development Corporation will be funding a survey to determine if residents in the District feel noise is a problem. The mayor claims he is concerned with noise in neighborhoods, and will be looking into the issue.

Cleveland, Ohio, "Public Hearing in Cleveland, Ohio Scheduled Over FAA's Draft Environmental Impact Statement for Cleveland Hopkins International Airport" (Nov. 28, 1999). The Plain Dealer reports that a public hearing is scheduled in Cleveland over the FAA's draft Environmental Impact Statement (dEIS) for Cleveland Hopkins International Airport. Officials from several neighboring communities don't want the expansion to take place. Communities are also upset that the city has reduced the number of homes it will pay to soundproof because planes are quieter; they want a commitment to soundproof homes that experience 60 decibels of noise instead of the current 65.

Cleveland, Ohio, "Resident Says Cleveland Should Take a Lesson From the French and Make Noise Walls More Attractive" (Dec. 1, 1999). The Plain Dealer reports that a resident of Cleveland, Ohio believes -- after traveling to France and observing their noise walls -- that the Ohio Department of Transportation could make their noise walls more effective and just as attractive.

Cleveland, Ohio, "Cleveland, Ohio Boat Show to Include Courtesy Boat-Motor Noise Tests" (Sep. 17, 1999). The Plain Dealer reports reports on several of Cleveland's upcoming sporting events, including a large boat show on the lake. The show will include courtesy engine-noise tests.

Cleveland, Ohio, "Continental Replaces All Older Jets with Newer, Quieter Ones at Cleveland, Ohio's Hopkins International Airport" (Sep. 17, 1999). The Plain Dealer reports that Continental Airlines has replaced all of its older, noisier jets at Cleveland, Ohio's Hopkins International Airport with newer, quieter ones. The article notes that the airline decided to replace its older jets because of new noise regulations, but also because they expect to save $100 million each year in maintenance costs on the 103 aircraft they expect to replace nationwide. Local politicians are pleased with the step, although they worry that increased traffic after the 2002 completion of a new runway will keep the noise problem from getting better

Cleveland, Ohio area, "Cleveland Airport Soundproofs Homes for Homeowners Who Agree Not to Sue" (Jul. 21, 1997). The Plain Dealer reports that the Cleveland Hopkins International Airport in has soundproofed about 150 homes in Cleveland, Brook Park, Olmsted Falls, and Olmsted Township (Ohio), and is planning to make another 1,200 homes available for the soundproofing program. However, the article reports, some residents are not happy about the terms under which their homes can be soundproofed. The program requires that homeowners give up their right to sue the airport over aircraft noise.

Clevleland, Ohio, "Shorter Runways Mean Less Noise from Cleveland Hopkins Airport" (May 14, 1998). The Plain Dealer reports the length of the proposed new runways at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport will be significantly reduced to appease residents who have objected to increases in the noise of aircraft taking off and landing.

Clinton, Connecticut, "Conn. Residents Petition for Relief from I-95 Noise" (Sep. 23, 1998). The Hartford Courant reports close to 100 Connecticut residents who live along a stretch of I-95 have signed a petition calling for an investigation of escalating noise along the highway.

Clinton, Connecticut, "Clinton, Connecticut, Drafts Noise Ordinance" (Mar. 24, 1999). The Hartford Courant reports the town of Clinton, Connecticut, is writing a noise ordinance in response to residents' complaints.

Clinton, Louisiana, "New Louisiana Noise Ordinance Passes Constitutional Litmus Test" (Apr. 19, 2000). The Advocate reported that a new noise ordinance in East Feliciana Parish is constitutionally sound, resulting in the Police Jury's support.

Clinton, Massachusetts, "Clinton, Massachusetts Residents Continue to Protest Warehouse Opening Due to Excessive Truck Traffic and Noise" (Apr. 3, 2000). The Worcester, Massachusetts Telegram and Gazette reports that a giant 344,000 square foot warehouse has opened in Clinton, Massachusetts, and has generated complaints from residents about excessive truck traffic and noise.

Clinton, Tennessee, "Homeowners in Tennessee Say Property Values Have Fallen on Their Homes From Noise and Air Pollution" (Jun. 28, 1998). The Knoxville News-Sentinel reports that more than 20 residents of the Eagle Bend neighborhood in Clinton, Tennessee say their property values have fallen and the assessments on their homes should be reduced because of the air and noise pollution coming from the nearby Carden Farm Industrial Park. The residents appeared before the Anderson County Board of Equalization recently, and presented a petition to the board contesting what residents say are the "high property tax reappraisals" on their homes.

Coalville, England, "Residents in UK Town Protest New Construction Project" (Mar. 21, 2000). The Leicester Mercury reported that residents in this small town oppose a new warehouse because the building is a huge, ugly structure towers over their homes. They also state they were not informed of its significant size.

Cobb County, Georgia, "Georgia County Commission Decides to Test Noise Levels From Firing Range in Response to Resident Complaints" (Oct. 23, 1997). The Atlanta Journal and Constitution reports that Eugene Holder, a resident of Cobb County, Georgia, has been lobbying county officials to do something about the noise from a firing range that opened near his home three years ago. Last week, Cobb County commissioners voted to spend $16,503 for experts to analyze how loud the gunfire is when it reaches Holder's neighborhood.

Cohasset, Massachusetts, "Appeals Board in Massachusetts Town Rejects Request for 30 Outside Dog Kennel Runs" (Apr. 13, 1998). The Patriot Ledger reports that the appeals board in Cohasset, Massachusetts unanimously rejected a request Friday by John and Christine Millar of Cedar Street to build 30 dog runs on the outside of their kennel. The board rejected the request because of the noise factor, and because it would bring the building 10 feet closer to the lot line, a violation of the zoning bylaw.

Colchester, Connecticut, "CT Residents Object to Asphalt Plant, Circulate Petition" (Mar. 5, 1998). The Hartford Courant reports that a group of vocal opponents circulated a petition Wednesday to voice their concerns about a proposed asphalt plant near Colchester, Connecticut. Meanwhile, a representative of the Department of Environmental Protection visited the site to make a recommendation about granting a permit to the company.

Colchester, England, "English Court of Appeals Upholds EPA Noise Nuisance Notice Regarding Barking Dogs" (Apr. 14, 1999). The Times Newspapers Limited reports a Court of Appeal on March 3 in Colchester, England, upheld the serving of a noise nuisance notice established by the 1990 Environmental Protection Act.

Colden, New York, "Colden Lake Neighbors Wary of Noise from Motorcycle Races" (Apr. 10, 1998). The Buffalo News reports the Colden , New York, Town Board Thursday night approved a special-use permit for an "off-road grand prix" to be held at the Colden Lakes Resort despite the objections of a few residents.

Colfax, North Carolina, "Reader in North Carolina Dismayed That Airport Authority Did Not Adequately Inform Her About Noise" (Apr. 2, 2000). The News and Record in Greensboro, North Carolina printed a letter to the editor by a reader in the town of Colfax who feels that that the local Airport Authority did not inform her about the amount of noise to which she and her family would be subjected when they purchased their new home. The letter is reprinted here in its entirety:

College Lakes, North Carolina, "Noise Impact Study May Result in Airport Buying Homes Affected by FedEx Hub" (Apr. 30, 1998). The News & Record of Greensboro, North Carolina, reports that because the new FedEx hub and a third runway are expected to alter the high- noise areas around the Piedmont Triad International Airport, the Airport Authority may purchase a number of homes.

College Park, Georgia, "Residents of Housing Project Near Georgia Airport to be Relocated" (Aug. 6, 1998). The Atlanta Journal reports residents of Lottie Miller Homes public housing project in College Park, Georgia, should soon get relief from airplane noise roaring overhead day and night, a city lawyer said this week.

College Park, Georgia, "Georgia Town to Send Officials to Airport Noise Symposium" (Nov. 19, 1998). The Atlanta Journal reports concerned about airport noise and expansion, members of the College Park City Council will return to Sand Diego in February for the 1999 Airport Noise Symposium.

Cologne, Germany, "German Acoustic Designer Transforms Bothersome Noise Into "Pleasant Sounds"" (Jun. 17, 1997). The Deutsche Presse-Agentur reports that Axel Rudolph, an acoustic designer in Cologne, Germany, designs sound systems that change irksome noise into sounds that people prefer to hear. According to Rudolph, noise profoundly influences people's feelings, but the field of acoustic design is in its early stages. The article goes on to outline some of Rudoph's projects and other applications for acoustic design.

Colonie, New York, "Colonie Residents Near New York State's Northway Petition DOT to Perform Noise Study, Erect Noise Walls" (Jul. 29, 1999). The Times Union reports that residents in Colonie, New York near the Northway are petitioning the Department of Transportation to erect noise walls. Traffic on the highway has increased 5-fold since its completion in 1962, and over 75 people signed the community petition. The DOT has no current plans to erect noise walls, and says that maintenance, safety, and bridge projects will take precedence over the walls.

Colorado Springs, Colorado, "Colorado Springs Airport to Encourage Pilots to Depart Northward More Often, Spreading Noise Pollution More Evenly" (Aug. 18, 1999). The Associated Press State & Local Wire reports that Colorado Springs Airport is encouraging pilots to take off the North more often. Currently, pilots use the southern departure 70% of the time. Airport officials want a more even distribution of noise, but residents in the North are upset. Officials say that a designated flight path -- as suggested by a recent study -- would take noise away from residential areas.

Colton, California, "California Residents Oppose Railroad Expansion Because of Train Noise" (Nov. 22, 1997). The Press-Enterprise reports that the Union Pacific Railroad has plans to expand business in Colton, California, but residents living near the train tracks are complaining that noise and air pollution already is too much of a nuisance. Meanwhile, some city officials say the railroad's expansion plans will benefit Colton's lagging economy.

Colton, California, "Residents in California Town Are Angry About Constant Train Horns" (Oct. 24, 1997). The Press-Enterprise reports that residents in Colton, California are increasingly complaining about the train whistles from the Union Pacific and Burlington Northern Santa Fe railroads, which pass through the town near Sixth and Eighth streets. The mayor has asked the railroad companies to find ways to quiet the whistles.

Colton, California, "Calif. Judge Upholds Idling Train Ban in Neighborhood, Preserving Quiet" (Nov. 21, 1998). The Press-Enterprise reports a California U.S. District Court upheld a ruling forbidding trains from idling and spreading noise and fumes in a west Colton neighborhood.

Columbia Bay, Illinois, "Owner of Bar on Fox Lake in Illinois Under Fire from Lakeshore Residents Claiming His Music, Piers Are Disruptive and Lower Their Property Value" (May 16, 1999). The Chicago Tribune reports that the Electric Harbor Marina, on Fox Lake in Illinois, is disrupting neighbors on the shores of Columbia Bay. Residents say the bar and summer afternoon concerts that Electric Harbor started last year are too loud, and complain that the 66 boat slips there detract from their views and property value; Bob Glueckert is trying to sell his house, and can't because Electric Harbor has effectively taken more than $250,000 off of its value. The owner, Larry Phillips, says he has no intention of changing.

Columbia, Maryland, "Road Noise Makes Life Unbearable in Upscale Maryland Planned Community" (Oct. 16, 1998). The Baltimore Sun reports many residents in a Columbia, Maryland, planned community are subjected to unbearable noise from a four-lane highway that splits their community.

Columbia, Maryland, "Maryland Village Requests Noise Barriers; Offered Trees Instead" (Sep. 29, 1998). The Baltimore Sun reports residents of a Maryland village have been offered evergreen trees to buffer noise from a four-lane highway, although officials admit the vegetation will do little to mitigate the noise.

Columbia, Pennsylvania, "Columbia, Pennsylvania Resident Says Abating Noise Should Be Prioritized Behind Other Work" (Nov. 2, 1999). The Intelligencer Journal prints a letter from a Columbia, Pennsylvania resident who says that a loud cooling system at a museum is the least of the problems of the city.

Columbia, South Carolina, "Peace Group Protests Military Raid Rehearsals in Columbia, South Carolina, Citing Noise Complaints" (Nov. 12, 1999). The Atlanta Journal and Constitution reports that a peace organization in Columbia, South Carolina are saying that practice military operations in downtown areas creates too much noise. he operations are designed to train Marines in urban warfare situations such as those that could arise in places like Kosovo.

Columbia, South Carolina, "Columnist in Columbia, South Carolina Discusses Noise Strategies in Our National Parks" (Oct. 16, 1999). The Sacramento Bee prints a column that discusses noise pollution in our national parks. The column discusses air-tour noise, raft-motor noise, and other problems in our national parks. She mentions that the National Park Service is currently drafting a policy that will require all parks to monitor their noise and establish natural sound levels as well as sources of the most intrusive human-made sounds.

Columbus, Ohio, "Ohio City and County Set to Discuss Noise Problems at Outdoor Amphitheatre" (Jul. 24, 1997). The Dayton Daily News reports that Columbus (Ohio) City Council President Michael Coleman will meet with Delaware County commissioners to discuss complaints about noise and violence at the Polaris Amphitheatre. The amphitheatre, about five miles north of Columbus, is under the jurisdiction of the city, and county commissioners recently have said Columbus officials have been lax about controlling concert-related noise. Residents living near the amphitheatre have complained about its noise since it opened in 1994. Meanwhile, the city attorney's office is drafting a new noise ordinance, the article reports.

Columbus, Ohio, "Noise Expert Says Wall Won't Block Noise from Ohio Amphitheater" (Apr. 10, 1998). The Columbus Dispatch reports Westerville, Ohio's noise consultant said yesterday the higher wall planned for the Polaris Amphitheater this summer won't solve the noise problem in the neighborhood. Instead, he advocates for stricter enforcement of existing noise standards and stronger penalties for violators.

Columbus, Ohio, "Meeting Will Hear Out Neighbors' Grievances About Noise From Ohio’s Port Columbus Airport" (Aug. 3, 1998). The Columbus Dispatch reports that a workshop will take place to allow neighbors to air their grievances about sound noise from nearby Port Columbus Airport. According to the article these workshops are periodically scheduled as a part of the noise compatibility program and are necessary if airports are to receive Federal Aviation Administration funds for noise abatement.

Columbus, Ohio, "Columbus Resident Advocates for Preservation of Quiet Streets and Neighborhoods" (Jun. 26, 1998). The Columbus Dispatch published the following editorial by Columbus resident, Joe Motil. He opposes the building of a major thoroughfare through an historic section of the city, which he says will bring noise, traffic, and the destruction of urban green space and a neighborhood. Motil writes:

Columbus, Ohio, "New Monitoring System at Port Columbus Will Identify Noisy Flights" (Jun. 24, 1998). The Columbus Dispatch reports a state-of-the-art monitoring system planned for Port Columbus should help airport officials better identify the source of noisy flights that give residents sleepless nights.

Columbus, Ohio, "Publication of the New Noise Zone at Rickenbacker Airport, in Columbus, Ohio Will Trigger Ban on All Aid to Future Housing" (Apr. 2, 1998). The Columbus Dispatch warns developers, land speculators and house hunters to be wary. Homes built after April 1998 that are within the noise impact zone for Rickenbacker Airport in Columbus, Ohio won't qualify for federal money to buy their property or pay for soundproofing if the roar of airplanes becomes a nuisance. The disqualification for payment is based on a new law that covers all airports in the United States.

Columbus, Ohio, "Polaris Amphitheater to Erect Noise Wall in Response to Complaints" (Mar. 13, 1998). The Columbus (Ohio) Dispatch reports Polaris Amphitheater managers will erect a new wall to block concert noise from nearby neighborhoods.

Columbus, Ohio, "Ohio Residents Offered Barriers to Soften Noise Impact of Highway Expansion" (Sep. 21, 1998). The Columbus Dispatch reports the Ohio Department of Transportation doubles the number of lanes on I-270, and neighborhoods along Ohio's north Outerbelt will decide whether they want sound walls built between their homes and the highway.

Columbus, Ohio, "Westerville, Ohio to Fine Columbus Amphitheater for Violating its Noise Ordinance Across Community Borders" (Aug. 27, 1999). The Columbus Dispatch reports that Westerville, Ohio plans to enforce its soon-to-be-revised noise ordinance across community borders in an attempt to quiet a Columbus amphitheater. Columbus has agreed to allow Westerville to enforce its ordinance across community lines because it will be easier to prove a violation of Westerville's noise ordinance. The penalty of $5,000 per violation would probably not cause the amphitheater to alter its noise output, but repeated violations would allow a judge to shut the venue down.

Columbus, Ohio, "Polaris Amphitheater in Columbus, Ohio Backs Down on Promise to Build Noise Wall" (Jul. 22, 1999). The Columbus Dispatch reports that Columbus, Ohio's Polaris Amphitheater, whose management promised to build a sound wall to reduce noise that disturbs neighbors, will not build the wall. The amphitheaters parent company says the wall is too expensive and may not be effective, and is hiring a noise consultant to determine alternative strategies; City Council has asked the company for a timeline. Residents are upset that the city council is not enforcing its own noise ordinance, and say that enforcement should happen before soundproofing.

Columbus, Ohio, "Columbus, Ohio Editorial Says Local Amphitheater Should Abide By Local Noise Ordinance" (Jul. 25, 1999). The Columbus Dispatch prints an editorial asserting that Columbus, Ohio's Polaris Amphitheater, which has drawn noise complaints since its opening in 1994, is still violating the local noise ordinance and should start complying. While many bands adhere to the 100 decibel limit as measured 100 feet from the stage, the amphitheater has refused to take responsibility for those who do not. Polaris had promised to build a 16-foot sound wall to block some noise, but has since rejected the idea as too costly and possibly ineffective. The author says this is irrelevant, claiming the real solution is consistent enforcement of existing amphitheater policies and the city's noise ordinance.

Columbus, Ohio, "Columbus, Ohio Elementary Schools Attempt to Cut Down on Lunchroom Noise" (Apr. 2, 2000). The Columbus Dispatch in Ohio reports that elementary schools in Columbus are debating whether to mandate "silent lunch" at school. Proponents believe that a child will eat more and digest his/her food more easily if allowed to eat in a quiet environment. Opponents believe it is impossible to enforce and not necessary. The article debates the issue.

Colville, Washington, "Washington County Judge Allows Resident to Reopen Dog Shelter Despite Neighbors Protests" (Mar. 25, 1998). The Spokesman-Review reports that Superior Court Judge Larry Kristianson in Stevens County, Washington ruled this week after hearing testimony from a sound engineer that Joyce Tasker can reopen her Dog Patch animal shelter on her semi-rural property in Colville. The judge ruled that a new $50,000 sound-baffling dog run eliminates the noise nuisance at the shelter. The judge's order is expected to be signed this week.

Commerce City, Colorado, "Early Morning Truck Noise Angers Colorado Residents and Sparks Zoning Debate" (Jun. 12, 1998). The Denver Post reports that residents in Commerce City, Colorado are opposing the proposed re-zoning of a lot to industrial use due to the noise from early morning trucks at the site. The article notes the land is zoned for agricultural uses, but the owner said he has been used the property for industrial purposes and paying industrial taxes since 1958. County commissioners believe they may have reached a compromise, the article says.

Commerce, California, "Rail Traffic Between Los Angeles and Long Beach, California Has Increased 56 Percent In Ten Years; Residents Suffer From Noise, Pollution and Safety Issues, and Yearn For Relief" (Nov. 10, 1999). The Los Angeles Times reports that rail traffic between Los Angeles and Long Beach, California has increased 56 percent in the last ten years. Residents of cities along the way are forced to deal with the noise, pollution, and safety issues that result. Rail officials say they are working on some of the problems, but also say that residents should expect some noise and pollution when living near a rail yard.

Concord, Massachusetts, "Expansion Plans at Hanscom Field in Concord, Massachusetts Anger Local Politicians and Historic Preservation Groups" (Apr. 6, 2000). The Boston Globe reports that Shuttle America, a low-cost airline, would like to expand at Hanscom Field in Concord, Massachusetts. The plan has met with strong opposition. The airline has requested approval from the FAA to schedule twelve flights a day between Hanscom and LaGuardia Airport in New York.

Concord, New Hampshire, "NH Legislature vs. Local Control in Speedway Noise and Traffic Fray" (Feb. 12, 1999). The Associated Press State & Local Wire reports the New Hampshire Legislature's decision to enter the traffic and noise dispute between the town of Canterbury and a major speedway raises questions about municipal control.

Cook County, Illinois, "Anti-Noise Group Gets Drowned Out by Noise from O'Hare" (Apr. 30, 1998). The Chicago Daily Herald reports that while a conference on noise reduction and education was held Wednesday at Park Ridge in Chicago, every few minutes or so, a plane would roar by and drown out the leader of the event.

Cook County, Illinois, "Cook County, Illinois Residents Living Near Midway Airport Appeal Property Taxes, Saying Airport Noise Lowers Property Values" (Apr. 30, 1999). The Chicago Tribune reports that about a dozen Cook County, Illinois residents living near Midway Airport are asking the County Board of Review to relieve some of their property tax burden, saying that airport noise lowers property values. Residents told of " jet fuel being dropped in swimming pools, levels of noise so high that phone conversations are not possible and windows that don't stop rattling," but the Board would not take action.

Cool Valley, Missouri, "St. Louis City Officials Criticized for Dismissing Residents' Airport Noise Concerns" (Mar. 25, 2000). The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reported on a news conference where regional officials, clergy and neighbors of Lambert Field sharply criticized St. Louis city officials for dismissing their noise concerns regarding the construction of a new runway and other improvements.

Copenhagen, Denmark, "European Commission to Hold Conference on European Union's Noise Pollution Policy" (Apr. 24, 1998). Agence France Presse reports that the European Commission, in cooperation with the Danish government, will hold a conference on May 4-5 in Copenhagen, Denmark, to discuss the European Union's noise pollution policy. The conference will focus on bringing noise pollution regulations of member states up to a standard and creating European Union legislation on noise pollution.

Copley, England, "Proposed Kennel Expansion in Britain May Be Rejected Due To Noise" (Dec. 6, 1997). The Northern Echo reports that a proposal to expand a dog kennel in Copley, England may be rejected due to the concern for noise pollution that would be created by the additional animals.

Coppell, Texas, "Noise Monitoring System at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (Texas) Designed to Settle Disputes Between Airport and Residents" (Jan. 9, 1998). The Dallas Morning News reports that Dallas/Fort Worth (Texas) International Airport officials have unveiled a noise-monitoring system that they say will be the final arbiter in noise disputes between nearby residents and airport officials. Residents of Texas cities around the airport have long complained about noise from planes that they say are too low and off their prescribed flight paths. And for just as long, many have been skeptical of official assurances that most of the planes were just where they were supposed to be.

Coppell, Texas, "A Day at the Noise Compatibility Office of the Dallas/Fort Worth Airport" (Jul. 21, 1999). The Fort Worth Star-Telegram prints an article that describes the role of the Noise Compatibility Office at Dallas/Fort Worth Airport (D/FW). The Office is similar to offices at every major airport around the country, and serves primarily to "monitor aircraft noise and flight patterns around the airport, take complaint calls about it and investigate anything out of the ordinary." They sometimes advise potential home buyers of loud areas or city planners considering rezoning. Armed with data from 35 noise monitors and three video screens full of flight patterns, workers at the noise compatibility office are ready to address any noise complain.

Coquitlam, British Columbia, "British Columbia Residents Object to New Bus Route on Grounds of Noise and Congestion" (Oct. 29, 1997). The Vancouver Sun reports that the British Columbia town of Coquitlam has received a 500-name petition calling for the shut-down of a Town Centre bus service. The residents of Town Centre Boulevard complain that the bus service adds noise, congestion and the potential for crime in the area.

Coquitlam, Vancouver, "Vancouver Resident Questions Closing of Rifle Ranges" (Jan. 22, 1998). The Vancouver Sun printed an editorial by Peter Hiebert, a resident of Coquitlam, Vancouver, in which he expresses his displeasure at the closing of the rifle ranges on Barnet Highway. Mr. Hiebert writes:

Coral Springs, Florida, "Florida Residents Fight with Business Owners Over Early Morning Noise" (Nov. 17, 1997). The Sun-Sentinel reports that residents in a Coral Springs, Florida neighborhood are angry about the early morning noise from businesses near their homes. Meanwhile, businesses are angry about the city ordinance that stipulates they can't open until 8 a.m. due to noise constraints, and are arguing they should be allowed to open at 7 a.m. The City Commission will discuss the ordinance at a second public hearing Tuesday evening.

Coral Springs, Florida, "Florida Community Considers Revision Of Noise Ordinance" (Nov. 28, 1997). The Sun-Sentinel reports that the Coral Springs (Florida) City Commission has tabled a proposed change to the city's noise ordinance that would allow businesses to be open an extra hour.

Coral Springs, Florida, "Florida Judge Pronounces Noise Ordinance Unconstitutional" (Mar. 12, 1998). The Sun-Sentinel reports that a county judge has ruled the Coral Springs, Florida noise ordinance unconstitutional, saying it is "vague and overbroad."

Coraopolis, Pennsylvania, "Eightteen Years Later, Lawsuits Settled over Noise at Greater Pittsburgh International Airport." (Nov. 22, 1998). The Associated Press State & Local Wire reports Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, last week settled a number of 18-year-old noise lawsuits involving the Greater Pittsburgh International Airport.

Corona, California, "Corona, California Building Department Tightens Enforcement that Forbids Early Morning Construction Noise" (Sep. 9, 1999). The Press-Enterprise reports that the Corona, California Building Department has been cracking down on construction noise before 7 in the morning. Hot summer days increase mid-day breaks and pressure builders for time, and earlier this summer work resulted in 20 complaints due to construction noise; this is triple the complaints of a normal month. The Police Department takes early-morning complaints since the Building Department is not yet open. Through further cooperation, police can cite violators for misdemeanors while the Building Department can reevaluate building permits if it comes to that.

Corrales, New Mexico, "New Mexico Town Considers Exempting Ice Cream Trucks From Noise Ordinance" (Jul. 29, 1998). The Albuquerque Journal reports that the Village Council in Corrales, New Mexico will consider amending its noise ordinance to exempt ice cream truck vendors. The article says the council voted unanimously Tuesday to consider the issue next month.

Costa Mesa, CA, "Costa Mesa Bans Truck Vendors From Using Noise Devices To Attract Customers" (May 15, 1997). The Los Angeles Times reports that on May 5, Costa Mesa (California) officials passed an ordinance that bans the use of horns -- and other attention-getting devices -- from being used by truck vendors for non-driving purposes. The city wants to quiet neighborhoods where residents have complained about noise from truck vendors selling ice cream, produce, and other products. City officials say that some trucks drive by the same area every ten minutes.

Costa Mesa, California, "California City Bans Street Vendors, Citing Noise and Other Health Issues" (Apr. 9, 1997). The Los Angeles Times reports that the City Council of Costa Mesa, California has banned pushcart vendors over concerns about non-compliance with health codes, unauthorized vendors, and the noise and trash that they produce and leave behind.

Costa Mesa, California, "Vending Trucks in California City Must Cut the Noise Under New Rules" (May 8, 1997). The Los Angeles Times reports that on May 5, Costa Mesa (California) officials passed an ordinance that bans the use of horns -- and other attention-getting devices -- from being used by truck vendors for non-driving purposes. The city wants to quiet neighborhoods where residents have complained about noise from truck vendors selling ice cream, produce, and other products. City officials say that some trucks drive by the same area every ten minutes.

Costa Mesa, California, "Small Pilots Safety Group Backs California's El Toro Airport Proposal" (Nov. 20, 1997). The Los Angeles Times reports that a pro-airport group in Orange County, California, called Commercial Pilots for Airport Safety, said that the proposed east/west airport at the proposed El Toro Airport would be safe. This contradicts statements from the two U.S. pilot's unions for commercial airlines.

Costa Mesa, California, "California's John Wayne Airport Prepares For Expansion" (Nov. 24, 1997). Orange County Business Journal reports that while the debate over El Toro Airport is getting headlines, John Wayne Airport is growing steadily and expanding with several projects either in the works or on the drawing board.

Costa Mesa, California, "Airport Noise Abatement Information Made Available on the Internet" (Oct. 21, 1997). The publication Airports reports that BCS International of Costa Mesa, California has upgraded its Bridge Reports decision support software for managing noise abatement programs to allow airports to provide access to noise abatement programs over the Internet. The article says that according to the company, reports, data, and graphics can be displayed on an airport's website or e-mailed in response to an individual request.

Costa Mesa, California, "California Judge Strikes Down Strict Noise Restrictions at Amphitheater" (Jul. 16, 1998). The City News Service reports that Orange County Superior Court judge Robert Thomas today struck down strict noise restrictions at the Pacific Amphitheatre in Costa Mesa, California. The article explains that the parties in the lawsuit were the Orange County Fair and Exposition Center, which owns the amphitheater, the Nederlander Organization, which sold the amphitheater to the fair, and homeowners living nearby. The article notes that the judge set a subsequent hearing for August 21 to determine the exact language of the final document which will accompany the ruling.

Costa Mesa, California, "Judge Lifts Some Noise Restrictions at California Amphitheater" (Jul. 17, 1998). The Orange County Register reports that a Superior Court judge in Costa Mesa, California ruled Thursday that some noise restrictions must be lifted at the 18,500-seat Pacific Amphitheatre at the Orange County Fairgrounds. But, the article notes, the judge ruled that a restriction limiting decibel levels at the edge of the amphitheater can remain in place.

Costa Mesa, California, "Residents Near California Amphitheater Worry About Judge's Ruling Eliminating Some Noise Restrictions" (Jul. 17, 1998). The Orange County Register reports that residents living near the Pacific Amphitheatre in Costa Mesa, California are afraid that a Superior Court judge's ruling Thursday that lifted some noise restrictions at the concert venue will result in unbearable noise. The article notes that the judge's ruling eliminated residents' control over the site's sound covenant.

Costa Mesa, California, "California Neighbors Fight Church Over Noisy Services" (Jun. 1, 1998). The Los Angeles Times reports that in Costa Mesa, California, residents have pushed city officials to implement noise restrictions on a particularly noisy church. The building, which is used by Christ Our Redeemer African Methodist Episcopal Church as (COR-AME) well as the United Pentecostal Church, must keep its doors closed, minimize amplification, and avoid congregating in the parking lot. The Pentecostal Church will comply, but the other church has said it will continue its services as they have been conducted.

Costa Mesa, California, "Church Official Visits California Neighborhood During Church Service to Experience Noise Level" (Jun. 2, 1998). The Los Angeles Times reports that to determine how loud church services at the Christ Our Redeemer AME Church were, the vice president from Orange County's Interfaith Council stood outside for much of the service last Sunday. Residents said that the congregation was being quieter than usual because they knew that people were listening, but the council representative concluded that closing the doors seemed to contain the sound.

Costa Mesa, California, "California State Fair Wins Noise Suit; Bills Two Residents $3.3 Million for Legal Fees" (Feb. 15, 1999). The Los Angeles Times reports two Costa Mesa, California, residents who lost a noise suit to the state-run Orange County Fair have been billed $3.3 million in legal fees for prolonging the suit.

Costa Mesa, California, "Letters: California Residents Continue the El Toro Airport Debate" (Apr. 1, 1999). The Los Angeles Times published two letters from California residents expressing their views about El Toro Airport issues. The first letter is written by Michael Steiner of Costa Mesa, California, who criticizes the idea of test flights at El Toro Airport. Steiner writes:

Costa Mesa, California, "Urban Rail Line Through Costa Mesa, California Approved By County; Residents Are Concerned About Potential Noise, and One Possible Route Was Rejected Because It Was Too Close to Residents" (Nov. 25, 1999). The Orange County Register reports that the route for an urban rail line through Costa Mesa, California -- which will be part of the larger Orange County urban rail project -- was approved by the County. Residents have expressed concern over noise levels, and at least one potential route was rejected because of its proximity to residents.

Costa Mesa, California, "California Amphitheater's Noise Dispute Settled Before Jury Decision" (Jan. 18, 2000). The Los Angeles Times reported that a noise dispute between the Pacific Amphitheatre and its neighbors is over, after years of conflict.

Costa Mesa, California, "Costa Mesa, California Will Allow New Target Store, But Noise Issues Must Be Addressed" (Mar. 16, 2000). 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.

Cote St. Luc and Hampstead, Quebec, Canada, "Local Officials in Canada Meet With Federal Minister to Discuss Train Noise" (Apr. 18, 2000). The Montreal Gazette printed an article about noise and pollution from trains that pass through Canadian cities. Town officials from Cote St. Luc and Hamstead are appealing to federal Transport Minister David Collenette for help.

Cote St. Luc, Canada, "New Train-Maintenance Shop In Cote St. Luc, Canada May Be Noisy, City Officials Say" (Aug. 10, 1999). The Gazette reports that city officials in Cote St. Luc, Canada are worried that noise from a new train-maintenance shop will cause complaints from residents. The mayor is scheduled to meet with the railroad companies to discuss potential noise impacts. Rail officials say the facility will not be any louder due to the repair shop.

Cote St. Luc, Quebec, "Noise-Weary Residents From Two More Communities in Quebec Joined Class Action Suit Against Two Canadian Railways" (Sep. 16, 1999). The Gazette reports that at a public hearing in Cote St. Luc, Quebec regarding railway noise, dozens of residents learned about a class action suit that they may be able to join. The suit, instigated by a man in a nearby community, will try to force the railways to compensate residents for the noise and reduce noise and pollution. Currently, the man is asking for $25,000 in damages. A similar case was recently won against CN, ruling that the rail company must reduce noise.

Coventry, England, "Coventry, England Parliament Member Backs Campaign to Allow More Local Regulation of Noise" (Nov. 10, 1999). The Coventry Evening Telegraph reports that a Labour MP of Rugby and Kenilworth, U.K. is backing a campaign to give local authorities more power to regulate airport noise.

Coventry, England, "Nightclub in Coventry, England Fined For Loud Music" (Apr. 6, 2000). The Coventry Evening Telegraph in Coventry, England reports that a nightclub that had been accused of producing too much noise was fined pounds 3,000.

Coventry, England, "Proposed Legislation Would Allow Local British Authorities More Power Over Noise Control at Provincial Airports" (Feb. 17, 2000). The Coventry Evening Telegraph reports that Parliament will soon discuss possible legislation to control noise at provincial airports, including Baginton Airport in Coventry.

Coventry, England, "Coventry, England Nurses Concerned About Lessening Night Noises for Patients" (Mar. 18, 2000). 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.

Coventry, Rhode Island, "Police in Rhode Island Town to Purchase ATV To Patrol Gravel Pits" (Jul. 7, 1999). The Providence Journal-Bulletin reports that dirt bikers are no longer welcome on private property. About 400 acres of gravel pits near the New London Turnpike and Route 95 never have been a site for recreation, but dirt bikers have used them for some time without being challenged. That's all about to change because of the noise they make.

Covington, Kentucky, "Cincinnati - Northern Kentucky International Airport Board Affirms the Idea of Including a Ohioan as a Voting Member of the Board" (Aug. 14, 1998). The Cincinnati Enquirer reports that there is a possibility that an Ohioan could serve as a voting member on the Cincinnati - Northern Kentucky International Airport Board. According to the article the idea was resurrected Thursday and was given support from most of the elected officials attending a joint meeting of Ohio's Hamilton County commissioners and Kentucky's Kenton Fiscal Court commissioners.

Coweta County, Georgia, "Georgia County Commissioners Turn Down Request for Helicopter Pad in Residential Area" (May 28, 1998). The Atlanta Journal reports that the Coweta County (Georgia) Board of Commissioners voted 5-0 last week to reject a request for a special-use permit for a helicopter port at a residence. The article notes that the commissioners expressed concern over noise and safety issues related to the request.

Cranberry, Pennsylvania, "Residents Oppose Pennsylvania Shopping Center, Saying it Will Bring Traffic and Noise" (Jul. 12, 1998). The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports that residents in Cranberry, Pennsylvania are opposing a proposed 550,000-square-foot regional shopping center because they believe it will bring additional truck traffic and noise to their neighborhood. At a township planning commission meeting on Wednesday, residents voiced their concerns. At the end of the meeting, planning commissioners asked for another meeting with developers to address questions raised by residents and staff members at the township.

Cranston, Rhode Island, "Rhode Island Residents Disturbed by What City Officials Believe is Rumbling Sewer Line" (Nov. 29, 1997). The Providence Journal-Bulletin reports that a mysterious booming noise in the earth has been disturbing residents in the Glen Woods neighborhood of Cranston, Rhode Island. The noise caused several residents to file a collective complaint on Nov. 16 with police. City officials say they now believe the noise is emanating from a pressurized sewer line.

Cranston, Rhode Island, "Cranston, Rhode Island's Zoning Board Denies Burger King Drive-Up Window After Residents Complain About Potentially Increased Noise and Traffic" (Sep. 9, 1999). The Providence Journal-Bulletin reports that Cranston, Rhode Island's Zoning Board denied Burger King's request for a drive-up window. The restaurant gathered 800 signatures that support the window, saying that many customers have asked for a drive-up window in the last two years; they maintain that concerns over increased traffic and drive-thru-speaker noise is unfounded. Residents say traffic is already backed up from cars turning into the restaurant, and fumes cause them to close their windows. Similar public outcry in 1997, when the restaurant was first opened, forced the restaurant to withdraw its request at that time.

Creve Coeur, Missouri, "Missouri Transportation Department Decides to Test Noise Levels on Interstate" (Jun. 19, 1997). The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that the Missouri Department of Transportation is planning to conduct noise-level testing along the eastern side of Interstate 270 between St. John's Mercy Medical Center and DeSmet High School in Creve Coeur, to determine whether a sound wall should be built between the highway and neighboring homes. The agency decided to undertake the testing after receiving a letter from Sen. Betty Sims (R-Ladue) requesting the test on behalf of her constituents.

Creve Coeur, Missouri, "Missouri Zoning Commission Denies Expansion of Children's Center, Noise and Other Concerns" (May 21, 1998). The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports the Creve Coeur, Missouri, Planning and Zoning Commission rejected the expansion plan of the Ranken Jordan Children's Rehabilitation Center. Citizens' objections ranged from the center's plan to use aluminum siding to concerns about noise.

Creve Coeur, Missouri, "Who Will Pay for Sound Walls Along Missouri's Interstate 270?" (Oct. 1, 1998). The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that after the state denied their request to pay for sound walls along Interstate270, Creve Coeur, Missouri, officials are considering their financing options to mitigate noise along the interstate highway.

Creve Coeur, Missouri, "Creve Coeur, Missouri City Council Divided on Need for Sound Barrier Construction Along Interstate 270; Public Hearings to be Held" (Mar. 20, 2000). The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that the Creve Coeur, Missouri City Council met recently to discuss the need for sound barrier construction along Interstate 270. Some members do not believe there is a need, and feel that the cost is too high. The Council discussed ways to request the state to change its funding formula in order to have the state pay more of the cost of the sound barrier construction.

Creve Coeur, Missouri, "Creve Coeur Missouri Residents Want Sound Barriers on Interstate But State Must Pay" (Mar. 23, 2000). According to the St. Louis Dispatch, residents of Creve Coeur want sound barriers around Interstate 270 among other requests to the city council as it reviews projects under the town's capital improvement plan.

Crewkerne, England, "Crewkerne, England Noise Officials Bust Late-Night Party Held by Several City Officials" (Oct. 16, 1999). The Birmingham Post reports that Crewkerne, England noise officials busted the Mayor, the town councillor, and the chair of the noise abatement committee for a 1:15 AM noise violation. The town postmaster, who left his home to complain about the noise, wants the three to resign.

Cromwell, Connecticut, "Connecticut Town Approves $10,000 Purchase of Noise Meter to Enforce Ordinance" (Aug. 28, 1997). The Hartford Courant reports that the Select Board in Cromwell, Connecticut voted unanimously Wednesday to spend $10,000 for a noise meter and training for the officers who would use it. The equipment will be used to enforce an ordinance passed last spring that prohibits noise over 45 decibels.

Cromwell, Connecticut, "Connecticut Town Approves Noise Ordinance" (May 15, 1997). The Hartford Courant reports that the Board of Selectmen in Cromwell, Connecticut Wednesday night approved a revised noise ordinance that forbids noise in excess of 45 decibels.

Cromwell, Connecticut, "Four Were Arrested At Hartford, Connecticut High-Schooler's Party After Noise Complaints Brought Police" (Nov. 23, 1999). The Hartford Courant reports that when police responded to noise complaints at a Hartford, Connecticut home, they found numerous high-school students drinking underage and made several arrests.

Cross Plains, Wisconsin, "Cross Plains, Wisconsin Introduces Ordinance to Regulate Noise from Outdoor Concerts" (Jul. 13, 1999). The Capital Times reports that the Town Board of Cross Plains, Wisconsin has introduced an ordinance which will limit outdoor concerts to 48 hours, with music allowed between 1 and 11 PM; only one outdoor concert will be permitted at any venue during any one year. A local tavern's outdoor music may be affected, but its indoor music would have to be cited under county law, although the Town plans to give the owner some leeway since he has showed a cooperative spirit.

Crownsville, Maryland, "Crownsville,Maryland Residents Debate the Ups and Downs of Rezoning" (Apr. 23, 1999). The Capital reports that residents of Crownsville, Maryland have mixed opinions over whether or not residential properties should be upzoned from rural-agriculture and one house per acre, to two houses per acre. While some residents have much to gain, others have much to lose.

Cumberland, Maryland, "The City of Cumberland, Maryland Agrees to Monitor Noise Levels of Manville Quarry in Response to Residents' Complaints" (Jun. 19, 1998). Providence Journal-Bulletin reports that Cumberland town officials have obtained a seismograph machine to monitor blasting at the Manville Quarry. The action is taken, as a response to quarry's neighbors who have been suffering with the repeated blasts for more than twenty years.

Cumberland, Rhode Island, "Rhode Island Town Council Considers Ordinance Creating Quiet-Zones" (Sep. 17, 1997). The Providence Journal-Bulletin reports that the Cumberland, Rhode Island Town Council will vote tonight on a proposed noise control ordinance that would allow noise-sensitive zones to be established in areas in which residents show that noise is hazardous to their health. The proposal was brought by two residents who say the noise in their neighborhood is bad for their health. Several city officials, however, believe the ordinance is not a good idea and will not pass.

Cumberland, Rhode Island, "RI Residents Say Quarry is Loud and Unwelcome Neighbor" (Oct. 19, 1998). The Providence Journal-Bulletin reports tests performed at a quarry in Cumberland, Rhode Island, show that the quarry meets federal noise and vibration standards, town officials say. Residents questioned the accuracy of the readings and insist the noise from quarry is unacceptable.

Custer County, Idaho, "Jet Skis Banned or More Heavily Policed on Two Idaho Mountain Lakes" (Jul. 5, 1997). The Idaho Falls Post Register reports that officials in Custer County, Idaho have banned personal watercraft on Stanley Lake, and have decided to more heavily police them on Redfish Lake due to noise complaints from campers, anglers, and others.

Cypress, California, "California City Strengthens Noise Ordinance for Businesses Offering Live Music" (Feb. 13, 1998). The Los Angeles Times reports that Cypress, California's City Council has strengthened its noise ordinance in response to resident complaints. Now, businesses offering live music will need to keep noise under a certain decibel limit, employ security guards, and keep doors and windows shut.

Cypress, California, "Police May Issue Permits for Live Acts after Noise Complaints" (Jan. 24, 1998). The Los Angeles Times reports that a proposal in Cypress, California may leave the chief of police there in charge of issuing live entertainment licenses.

Other Indexes

Aircraft Noise
Amplified Noise
Effects on Wildlife/Animals
Construction Noise
Firing Ranges
Health Effects
Home Equipment and Appliances
Industrial/Manufacturing
International News
Environmental Justice
Land Use and Noise
Lawsuits
Civil Liberty Issues
Miscellaneous Noise Stories
Noise Ordinances
Noise Organizations Mentioned
Outdoor Events
Noise in Our National Parks/Natural Areas
Regulation
Residential and Community Noise
Snowmobile and ATV Noise
Research and Studies
Technological Solutions to Noise
Transportation Related Noise
Violence and Noise
Watercraft Noise
Workplace Noise

Chronological Index