Sound Off highlights anonymous, brief takes on the news offered via telephone by Daily News readers.

We would like to know if taxpayers’ money was used to pay for the private, invitation-only observance at City Hall to celebrate George Washington’s birthday.

Vidant, we hear you loud and clear: longer waits, less service, more costs. Prove to us that we can trust you.

Here is one more of your readers who loves Gene Lyons’ column. They’re always great. Also, about the Catholic Church being hypocritical about contraception: Who cares if it’s being hypocritical or not. Concerning contraception, the Catholic Church is just plain wrong.

Sound Off comments are screened for subject matter, clarity and length of message. Comments about private businesses (except the WDN) and some individuals are not allowed. On occasion, we cease publishing comments about topics that have been fully discussed in Sound Off. Call 252-946-2144 ext. 235 to comment, (30 seconds maximum time). (All submissions are subject to editing).