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

My old Monte Carlo stalled at the bottom of a hill on U.S. Highway 264 in a dangerous area, and it would have surely caused an accident if not for the two men in the white van who came to my assistance and fixed my battery. Thank you.

I know the city passed a new rule about old, dilapidated houses, but could you please report on what the process is for turning those abandoned houses into the city? Editor’s note: Contact John Rodman, the city’s planning and development director, at 252-975-9300 for information about that matter.

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 252-940-4215 to comment, (30 seconds maximum time). (All submissions are subject to editing).