ANSWER: You’re not alone in your frustration over loud motorcycles. There’s even an organized group in the state, Maine Citizens Against Loud Motorcycles (MECALM), whose mission is to regulate noise levels for motorcycles. While some people may think that loud bikes have a certain “cool” factor, others argue that louder bikes help to make other drivers aware of motorcycles’ presence on the roadways. There’s another organized group that actually promotes loud motorcycles with the slogan, “Loud pipes save lives.”

Some states have no noise restrictions on motorcycles, but Maine does have muffler requirements for all motorized vehicles and prohibits amplification of noise from mufflers. Motorcycles are supposed to display inspection stickers in the state and, in order to pass inspection, they must meet certain noise requirements. So laws are in place to mitigate noise levels, but enforcing those laws can be challenging. Conscientious motorcycle operators can also do things to lessen the complaints about the noise emitting from their machines — like refraining from driving at excessive speeds or revving their exposed engines in residential areas or late at night, for instance.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I receive (EBT) food stamps which I count on and I’m very grateful for. The other day, I misplaced my EBT card and called the required number to report my not being able to locate it. I was told that it would take five to seven days before I would receive a new one. My question is, why does it take so long? Is it true that our cards here in Maine come from Texas? I’m as frugal as I can be and five to seven days is a long time to be able to buy food for myself. I would appreciate you being able to clear up this issue. Thank you for your assistance. — Gosh, I’m Hungry, No Town.

ANSWER: While it’s surely an inconvenience to have to wait for a new card to be generated and mailed to you, the wait time is no more, and probably less time, than a bank might take to reissue a lost debit or credit card. In the meantime, turn to some of your local resources, like food pantries, to get help easing your hunger. Your town office will be able to tell you what pantries are closest to you.

Sun Spots was unable to find specific information on where Maine’s EBT cards come from, but it’s certainly not unusual for a card manufacturer to be located in another state, and that should have little impact on how long it takes to receive your card.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I also was invaded with black ants and found that “Terro Ant Killer” works very well. I have used it two years in a row and have eliminated the ants each time. This can be bought at your local hardware stores, Walmart, Tractor Supply or True Value. Just follow directions on the package. — Brenda, Temple.

ANSWER: Thanks for the tip.

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