COG to Hold Public Meetings on Helicopter Study Plans  The Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (COG) will sponsor public meetings on July 30 and 31 to gain a better understanding of helicopter noise issues in the community.  These meetings will gather specific data about helicopter noise, including identifying the location of noise effects and helicopter activity by use and type, and solicit comments from the general public.  Subsequent meetings will be held to discuss recommendations and specific action items. The series of public meetings is part of a regional helicopter system study that COG will conduct to document helicopter operations throughout the metropolitan Washington region and develop mitigation measures. Meeting Dates: Wednesday, July 30, 2003 7 – 9 p.m. Stella B. Werner Council Bldg. 100 Maryland Avenue 7th Floor Hearing Room Rockville, MD Thursday, July 31 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Aurora Hills Recreation Center 735 S. 18th Street Arlington, VA    Questions regarding the meetings should be directed to George Nichols at COG, 202-962-3355 or e-mail: gnichols@mwcog.org. ----------- Release Date: Jul 10, 2003 Contact: Karen Sibert Phone: 202-962-3249