This is a collection of older comments to DC Darkside form its inception in 1996 until 2004. Comments now may be attached to each article.
In many ways, Darkside was a blog, long before blogs became a staple of the Internet. The feedback system was a primitive setup based on the old Microsoft FrontPage software.
Name:
Linda Poole
Email:
lpoole@brtc.net
Remote User:
Date:
31 Jul 2004
Time:
05:14:25 PM -0400
Comments
Hi, I like Capitol Hill Blues, but a POP ad keep coming back while page loads? (for Macromedia Player)?
Re: your 10 yr. old reporter experience when they integrated school?
In early 70’s, rite after school integration & the awful riots in Cairo, ILL, a really naive College grad from SIU (me!), still a “hippie” & braless, found a substitute Art teacher job there, for 1 yr.
The town had filled the public swimming poole with bricks, so that no black child could swim there, and closed it.
They opened a Private school, ironically enuf called “Camelot” (gee, Pres. JFK musta rolled in his grave!) & thus began there, as all over the USA, the process of the right-wing Christian movement to “demonize” public schools.
The kids, black & white, their eyes looked like the eyes of Palestinian children, or children in the Sudan right now. They were all traumatized, but esp. the black kids.
I had a racist white HS Principal, a racist black elementary school Principal, & neither fur sure wanted some damn “hippie” coming in & rocking the vote by say, talking my HS class out on front steps of school on a nice spring sunny day, to listen to the boom box, and draw the scenery. Jeez, I felt like I had fell into “The Twilight Zone”. I grew up until 5th grade in St. Louis Mo, lived across from Shaws Botanical Gardens. The area was donated by George Bernard Shaw, with stipulation NO black people would ever live there!
Thank God I had parents who didn’t have a real racist bone in their body, esp. my mom, who grew up poor but proud on a farm with outhouse, etc.
Fast forward to today, & the REAL SECRET of the Republican conservative rite wings success, is that the SAME damn people who filled that swimming pool with bricks, and opened private “Camelot” schools, are still running the damn country!
Oh, & I moved back to this area from Florida after 11 yrs. I live in Kevil, Ky, across river from Cairo, ILL. The town is dead, like after a nuclear holocaust or something. Boarded up stores, closed hospital, H.S. dangerous, metal detectors in it.
Some progress among younger people integrating, but anyone who could move away, moved long ago. SIU did a photographic student documentary photojournalism project, about the town a few yrs. back.
The one thing I liked about Dem. convention, was the “Black Eyed Peas” performing. THESE type of kids are our future, I hope, & their song, “Where is the Love?” should be the protest song of our time.
I didn’t mean to write so much, but I thought you mite enjoy this story, which so reflects yours, but seen through a 20-something’s eyes, not a 10-yr. old
Cheers, Linda
Name:
Michelle Hill
Email:
Chelleatlnf@hotmail.com
Remote User:
Date:
28 Jul 2004
Time:
09:06:50 AM -0400
Comments
I found your link to DCDarkside on the Capitol Hill Blue site.
Even though I’m sure that we hold somewhat opposite views on some things political; I have throughly enjoyed reading all of your writings.
I am a bit of an information junkie, so when I read something that hits close to home; it does have an impact.
Just keep doing what you’re doing. You seem to do it well, and enjoy it.
That is the most important thing.
Name:
Francesca
Email:
Francesca_259@hotmail.com
Remote User:
Date:
27 Jul 2004
Time:
11:42:51 AM -0400
Comments
Wow Hot stuff! A friend sent me a link, you have a girl following it would seem : ) I live in DC and so really appreciate the darkside take. Thanks!
Name:
Stephen Pitt
Email:
lthuedk@pe.net
Remote User:
Date:
14 Jul 2004
Time:
11:49:01 PM -0400
Comments
Hi Doug:
I’ve spent a few weeks at Blue, linking my stuff, getting the crap of Republicanism into plain view. Maybe you haven’t seen my stuff. Here’s some:
http://www.light-to-dark.com/mininuke.html
http://www.light-to-dark.com/neocon.html
If you like what you see, you are welcome to link to my cartoons.
Keep breathing and writing.
Stephen Pitt
Name:
Donna Wilson
Email:
Remote User:
Date:
13 May 2004
Time:
05:16:14 PM -0400
Comments
You must have a dark soul.
Name:
Jack Rogers
Email:
Remote User:
Date:
11 May 2004
Time:
08:56:43 AM -0400
Comments
Incredible writing. Keep up the good work.
Name:
Jenny Morgan
Email:
jmorganix@mac.com
Remote User:
Date:
09 Mar 2004
Time:
07:32:50 AM -0500
Comments
I just read your piece on Internet addiction… so true. I 1985, I lived on a commune w/ a bunch of former hippies. We had all grown into professionals of various types, but still, we hadn’t lost the sense of community, sharing and ‘family’ taht had carried us throught the 60/70’s. So we all lived together on a farm grew our own veggies, etc. All while holding down our ‘careers’. One guy was a lawyer and a bit of the compulsive. And, even in those pre-internet days of 300 baud and a 128 Mac, he became throroughly addicted, in the classic way as you describe in your piece. That year I saw a new disorder forming (I was a social services administrator), 20 years later… here we are. Thanks for the writing. And btw, I love CHB, too. -Jenny
Name:
Rob Kall
Email:
rob@opednews.com
Remote User:
Date:
28 Feb 2004
Time:
05:38:23 PM -0500
Comments
I’m addicted to creating websites, hopefuly ones that touch people. Nice to find a kindred spirit.
Name:
Sherie Olsen
Email:
Remote User:
Date:
06 Feb 2004
Time:
04:39:09 PM -0500
Comments
The article on internet addication hit the nail on the head for me. I’m hooked on e-bay. I’m going to try kicking he habit myself as no way can I afford to go to a clinic for intervention and beside I don’t trust places like that. At least I don’t drink or do drugs but I’m sue hooked on buying stuff and saving a ton of money on stuff I need and can’t afford to buy at a department store. I only buy stuff I actually need which is a lot.
Name:
Dave Gregoire
Email:
dave@broad.mit.edu
Remote User:
Date:
05 Feb 2004
Time:
09:26:02 AM -0500
Comments
Hi, I wanted to find a way to email Doug about his last? rant on the Capitol Hill Blue web site. For what its worth, I’ve never voted for a president in my life. Every vote I’ve cast was a vote against a nominee. Sometimes against one party’s nominee, sometimes against another. I have (sometimes) voted for a candidate in primaries but living in the people’s republic of Massachusetts, the results of any campaign are a largely bootless enterprise. I was wondering if things have really gotten so much worse on the political front, or if we just view the past through the haze of fill_in_the_blank (rose colored glasses, misinformation, distortion, nostalgia, etc…) We’ve had quite a collection of dubious “leaders” in the course of our country’s existence. Some. like Lincoln, now revered but pilloried in his time for some very simillar abuses of power and for suspending many civil rights (see Habeas Corpus). Anyway, the country survives. While I look around the world with my views filtered by many media points, I don’t really see any other countries in much better shape in the leadership front. As a result, I’m forced to conclude that while many things change, human nature doesn’t. We’re not long out of the trees, and it shows. Good luck with your future endevors, I’ll miss your commentary. Dave Gregoire
Doug responds: My wife informed me, in her usually terse language, that I was a coward for quitting. So did many other readers. So I’m back. Still pissed, but back. Thanks for the comments.
Name:
James Seymour
Email:
fourteenbucks@yahoo.com
Remote User:
Date:
20 Jan 2004
Time:
12:34:30 PM -0500
Comments
Your articles are amazing. My journalism teacher, Mrs. Annice Brave turned me onto your writing on your main site and then showed me the Dark Side (haha). I wanted to say that your literary work is just outstanding and I frequently visit your page now.
Doug responds: James, thanks for the comments. Please tell Annice hello for me. She is a very special lady.
Name:
David Zukerman
Email:
protolytes@socal.rr.com
Remote User:
Date:
01 Nov 2003
Time:
12:13:34 PM -0500
Comments
Trying to figure out if you are left center right?
(Editor’s Note: When you figure that out, will you let us know? We’ve been wondering that as well. Seriously, if you can’t figure it out, then we’re doing things right.)
Name:
Chuck Sommers
Email:
hvy747s4@netscape.net
Remote User:
Date:
22 Sep 2003
Time:
07:33:51 PM -0400
Comments
I just read your article about your lights being out in apt. bldg. Also about your politician said it was the storm of a lifetime.. You stated not only it was not the storm of a lifetime but had been down graded to a tropical storm… Too bad you can convey this to the mass media and see if they cannot be more forth right… Lies day in and day out from BB eyes .. Besides hes a liar AWOL and have wondered if he has ever told the truth in his life. Not to the American people.. but now we know by his own smirking mouth.. Why dont you go to Washington and help him out. And I agree this country is getting to be a big WUSS Chuck
Name:
David K. Jones
Email:
jonesdk21@hotmail.com
Remote User:
Date:
29 Jul 2003
Time:
04:32:49 PM -0400
Comments
Clear, concise, thought provoking. You present the daily news in an attention catching manner. You also have changed the way I look at the strangers I meet and sit next to as I enjoy my life in DC.
Name:
isaac
Email:
isaacjoe@yahoo.com
Remote User:
Date:
13 May 2003
Time:
01:48:37 AM -0400
Comments
your last rant on capitolhillblue.com, chasing the last story, is an awsome piece of writing. its written with the same style as alot of your dc pieces. i try to read as much of what you write as possible, youre an excellent writer http://www.capitolhillblue.com/artman/publish/article_2053.shtml
Name:
LINDA
Email:
Remote User:
Date:
02 Apr 2003
Time:
07:14:56 AM -0500
Comments
I’m not impressed.
Name:
classified
Email:
Remote User:
Date:
01 Apr 2003
Time:
11:19:17 PM -0500
Comments
You are a very talanted writer Doug, I very much enjoyed your articles.
Name:
Pat
Email:
Remote User:
Date:
28 Mar 2003
Time:
10:03:18 AM -0500
Comments
When are we going to see more stories?
Name:
al watson
Email:
Remote User:
Date:
15 Mar 2003
Time:
10:40:37 AM -0500
Comments
A valuable lesson should be learned by Mr. Hartlett. First he fires someone for snooping and rats out on my same name person. Mr. Hartlett deserves what ever he gets…we all do. What noble people. What failures. Mr. Hartlett should feel grateful…now he has entered the elite ranks of the unemployed. Perhaps he can aspire to leadership by detecting welfare cheats among his new associates.
Name:
lkf1925
Email:
lkf1925@msn.com
Remote User:
Date:
18 Feb 2003
Time:
05:12:48 AM -0500
Comments
How do I get to my msn8 account to get my email from another computer? lkf1925@msn.com
Name:
Louie Freiberg
Email:
lkf1925@msn.com
Remote User:
Date:
23 Jan 2003
Time:
04:16:08 PM -0500
Comments
Lobbying by family members of Congress for pay is unethical and wrong in my opinion. The son of the Republican Speaker of the House is now lobbying congress as a paid lobbyist. The wife of the Senate minority leader (former Majority leader in the senat) is lobbying congress as a paid lobbyist for drug companys and other. Congress will not police their own members regarless of party. Congressman whose sives lobby shoul reval their joint income tax return. They say the have family values but it amounts to family cah values. Give us your view.
Name:
Elise
Email:
elisejk@aol.com
Remote User:
Date:
01 Dec 2002
Time:
12:25:01 AM -0500
Comments
You are a multi-faceted, multi-talented man. Your honesty is refreshing. Thank you for sharing and caring.
Name:
Sorry, gotta bust you on this one…
Email:
If he was dead, why would he be driving again?
Remote User:
Date:
11 Nov 2002
Time:
04:19:16 PM -0500
Comments
McBrien, Smyth and Canipe died instantly… Two days later, Virginia officials admitted Canipe had been driving, once again, on a suspended license.
(Editor’s Note: The police were referring to the day he died.)
Name:
Darrin
Email:
Remote User:
Date:
17 Aug 2002
Time:
09:55:46 AM -0400
Comments
Please write more articles.
Name:
Stephen
Email:
Remote User:
Date:
09 May 2002
Time:
10:31:31 AM -0400
Comments
Doug: Good to see you writing darkside articles again. Many of us have waited for several years for more dark articles. Thanks for the articles.
Name:
Jerry the Geek
Email:
JerryDGeek@aol.com
Remote User:
Date:
07 May 2002
Time:
04:17:57 PM -0400
Comments
I started reading this stuff about five years ago. It tapered off, then stopped altogether. Today I was going though an old bookmark file and found DC Darkside. I thought; I’ll go back, reread some tales. Maybe the website’s still up, maybe it isn’t. Big surprise, it’s still there and there are two new pieces. Welcome back. I’ve missed you.
Name:
Justine
Email:
Remote User:
Date:
17 Feb 2002
Time:
10:22:16 PM -0500
Comments
The finest pieces of writing I have read in a long time. Truth is stranger than fiction , and a lot more scary , keep those stories coming. No 1 Fan of the Darkside
Name:
Susan
Email:
sflong@comcast.net
Remote User:
Date:
17 Feb 2002
Time:
09:23:32 PM -0500
Comments
Super writing. Thanks and keep ’em coming.
Name:
Dave Warnick
Email:
dwarnick@hotmail.com
Remote User:
Date:
08 Feb 2002
Time:
10:09:05 AM -0500
Comments
It’s good to have you back. I always looked forward to each episode.
Name:
David Steenhoek
Email:
Davids@goldmiller.com
Remote User:
Date:
05 Dec 2001
Time:
07:20:25 PM -0500
Comments
Doug, How are you doing? I don’t know if you remember me. I worked as an intern in the Spring of 1997 there at the Eddie Mahe Company. Now I work at the Gold/Miller Co. in Beverly Hills. We produce films and represent Jim Carrey, Jay Roach, Garry Shandling, Vince Vaughn and Tea Leoni to name a few. I know you have great ideas for movies or possibly you’ve written some screenplays. I would like to read whatever you have. Hollywood loves political dramas set in Washington and that’s your world. Take care, Dave Steenhoek
Name:
ivan
Email:
Remote User:
Date:
03 Dec 2001
Time:
08:24:44 PM -0500
Comments
Name:
Demon
Email:
Remote User:
Date:
25 Nov 2001
Time:
05:10:28 AM -0500
Comments
Today was my first time to D.C. Darkside while looking for a dark alleyway picture for a game in development. I read a couple stories. Very depressing. I can’t gather up the nerve to read another. =\
Name:
duncan darkside maynard
Email:
www.. agent dunc . com
Remote User:
Date:
22 Nov 2001
Time:
10:31:28 AM -0500
Comments
he stays i go john stays i go 20 past5 darkside go and i will be back at darkside or i will do your head in so you can stay at 2o past 5
Name:
Alicia Smyth
Email:
asmyth73@yahoo.com
Remote User:
Date:
31 Jul 2001
Time:
11:08:46 PM -0400
Comments
In reference to the following entry: http://dcdarkside.com/graveyard/may7.htm : George H. Smyth would have been my father-in-law had he survived long enough to see his son’s wedding day. This article was very accurate except for one thing…George was never at any time a police officer. He was in the Navy at one time and at the time of his death, was a Project Manager for a Navy contractor. Thank you. (Editor’s Note: Alicia, we thank you for the information and it has been corrected. And our condolences for your loss.)
Name:
brenda
Email:
Remote User:
Date:
21 Jul 2001
Time:
06:21:23 PM -0400
Comments
Great Page. Thankz!
Name:
Marian Glaze-McCarthy
Email:
marian.mccarthy@trakmed.com
Remote User:
Date:
16 Jul 2001
Time:
11:33:29 AM -0400
Comments
“Suddenly it was all over” is all too common. It brings to mind how very precious every moment that we have with our loved ones is: how very precarious life itself is. Maybe most important is that we use the insight(we have)and Doug shows us, to always be able to put relationships and love before all else, especially before money and/or careers. And to stay close to that God we so often ignore.
Thank you Doug for sharing this with us. Thank you for the re-awakening the article will bring to all who read it.
Name:
Mark Wonderful
Email:
mw@mrwonderful.org
Remote User:
Date:
11 Jul 2001
Time:
10:57:24 AM -0400
Comments
July 11th “Suddenly it was all Over” story of a careless 16-Wheeler driver killing several people after crossing the center line will be repeated on an epidemic level should Mexican trucks and truckers be allowed to freely travel U.S. highways. If you’ve ever been to Mexico you can only imagine what condition their trucks are in and exactly what training the drivers of those trucks receive.
Name:
Ginny
Email:
TsMom17@aol.com
Remote User:
Date:
11 Jul 2001
Time:
09:09:49 AM -0400
Comments
Hi Doug:
Today was the first time I visited DC Darkside. I read many of them and will be sure to come back to read the rest of them !!! 😉
Good Job Doug!
Name:
Herman
Email:
HERMANS@PRODIGY.NET
Remote User:
Date:
11 Jul 2001
Time:
08:09:20 AM -0400
Comments
If you have a “SUBSCRIBE”—“SUBSCRIBE” me.
Herman
Name:
dan
Email:
quasaglimoth2@hotmail.com
Remote User:
Date:
07 Jun 2001
Time:
02:55:44 AM -0400
Comments
cool site…keep it up.
Name:
Lauren Robbins
Email:
latinaprinzcess18@yahoo.com
Remote User:
Date:
16 Dec 2000
Time:
02:44:57 PM -0500
Comments
I really love this website AND the stories. But It hink you should add some horror stories also. i have one: When a Stranger Calls. I really love that story. I guess yo could say that I an obssesed with things dealing with horror. Please write me back.
Name:
Mike B
Email:
Remote User:
Date:
19 Nov 2000
Time:
05:45:36 PM -0500
Comments
Doug,
I thoroughly enjoyed reading your atricles (stories) in the archive.
Your work on CHB was, without exception, truly insightful, well written, and came from the heart.
I really hope you are enjoying your current retirement. Your pics are great, and I will check often for more.
Please pop in on us at Reader Rant occasionally, in the “General” thread, and say “hello”, and tell us how things are going.
We do miss your editorial touch.
Mike
Name:
CaptBob
Email:
Captbob3@aol.com
Remote User:
Date:
01 Nov 2000
Time:
01:06:41 PM -0500
Comments
Doug, this sad story about your abandoning the “Rant” sounds like the classic middle age syndrome. How old are you? I suspect not over 40 and ready to “give up” I suggest you “grow up” and get back in the political fight. I am now 80 and not through yet…….I was a California Republican Central Committee member and voted for George Murphy in ’64 and Ronald for Governor in ’66 Stop feeling sorry for yourself, and get back to work.
Name:
Will Bailey
Email:
wcbpa@aol.com
Remote User:
Date:
02 Oct 2000
Time:
05:13:05 PM -0400
Comments
I have enjoyed reading your stories. You need to do some more soon.
Name:
SERGIO
Email:
Remote User:
Date:
19 Sep 2000
Time:
10:22:20 AM -0400
Comments
ALL THE CITY HAS THIS DARKSIDE,BUT IN THE BIG CITY ARE MORE DARK.
Name:
linda heflin
Email:
Remote User:
Date:
14 Sep 2000
Time:
02:38:10 PM -0400
Comments
it has been a long time. when are we going to see new stories. they are really interesting.
Name:
Alix Allen
Email:
AlixAllen@hotmail.com
Remote User:
Date:
23 Aug 2000
Time:
10:51:23 AM -0400
Comments
I tumbled into this web page by accident. I liked it very much! The stories are creepy. But I’d like to see more stories about road rage as I know it’s very common here. I am from Northern California and I can tell you that DC drivers are the worst! They don’t stop for pedestrians and I’ve had near death experiences with these drivers. They also cut each other off or tailgate. Don’t they realize that anyone could have a gun? I’d like to hear more stories.
Name:
carrie
Email:
Remote User:
Date:
14 Apr 2000
Time:
01:47:39 PM -0400
Comments
I like your stories. I just haven’t seen any new in at least a year. Waiting…
Name:
Asa Higgins
Email:
Asa at rlphc@ICQ mail.com
Remote User:
Date:
26 Mar 2000
Time:
03:10:32 PM -0500
Comments
I think your site is really great.I like the stories that are in the Graveyard part of this site. They are interesting and very good to read.I hope that you continue to write them.I have learned alot from these stories in here.Keep up the good work
Name:
Dale Gagnon
Email:
Remote User:
Date:
10 Feb 2000
Time:
04:54:40 PM -0500
Comments
Outstanding ! What an eyeopener. These stories are really heartbreaking. In some of them, you feel truly sorry for the people involved and others you feel they deserved what they got. I will definitely be back, checking for new stories. Keep up the good work !
Name:
orlúcio lopes de sousa moura
Email:
Remote User:
Date:
02 Feb 2000
Time:
10:34:48 AM -0500
Comments
Name:
Editor
Email:
Remote User:
Date:
17 Sep 1999
Time:
11:32:45 PM -0400
Comments
Soon, we hope.
Remote User:
Date:
14 Jun 1999
Time:
20:25:42
Comments
Good to see the comment page back online. Now, when are we gonna see a new Darkside?
Name:
DOUGLAS GOSSARD
Email:
drgossard@aol.com
Remote User:
Date:
20 Jul 2001
Time:
05:16:36 PM -0400
Comments
I have your entire graveyard and find your adaptions riveting. The curious question for this reader is, “Did you start CapitolHillBlue and does the photography represent your output??”
UserName: Sharon Tom
UserEmail:
Time: 18:20:27
Remote User:
Comments
It’s been a long time since I read writing that touches a nerve about problems in our society. I don’t live in Washington, have visited a couple of times but the way the author captures the gritty hardships of life and “success” in Washington brought a sense of realism that I probably wouldn’t have received in the news.
UserName: Red
UserEmail: jazzmonkey@hotmail.com
Date: 25 Oct 1996
Time: 17:14:45
Remote User:
Comments
Great stuff, a little cynical, though. Now that I’m a college student living in Denton, TX, your site helps me show my friends what my hometown is about. -Former Adams Morgan resident
UserName: Rene Sarafian
UserEmail: SaraF39
Date: 29 Oct 1996
Time: 17:07:43
Remote User:
Comments
What a great page!!!!! Thanks for the information and thought provoking articles. I will visit you often now that I know you exist.
UserName: Ray Davis
UserEmail: rdavis@a2znet.com
Date: 24 Dec 1996
Time: 07:27:10
Remote User:
Comments
This has to be one of the best sites on the web. Interesting topics and very well written. Will be back often. Thanks.
UserName: Adolfo Abalos
UserEmail: abalos@eros.com
Date: 11 Jan 1997
Time: 00:35:31
Remote User:
Comments
It almost makes you wanna slash your wrists. Thank god I moved out of Fairfax (Fairfucks) Co. as I refer to it. Most people schizophrenic, It is adding years to my life living in Carrol County, I look back at my years of living in the Wash. area as a bad dream. I’ll be checking this site periodically. Please keep it up. thanks Adolfo
UserName: al
UserEmail: LOLO@SATURNNET.COM
Date: 13 Jan 1997
Time: 10:20:57
Remote User:
Comments
my hats off to josh watkins.a man of decency and respect.we need more josh watkins. al (a whitey)
UserName: Chuck Beretz
UserEmail: cberetz@farmland.org
Date: 21 Jan 1997
Time: 12:02:50
Remote User:
Comments
Doug-
In your recent article on ebonics you state — and your interviewee concurs — that the Oakland school board wants to teach ebonics. This is simply untrue. The school board wanted ebonics recognized as a distinct language so that the teachers could have the legal authority to use ebonics as a tool in the teaching of STANDARD english.
This is no different than current secondary school language programs. My wife, for example, who is a spanish teacher, must occasionally rely on English as a conduit for teaching spanish.
Thanks for providing an entertaining and challenging site.
Chuck Beretz
UserName: Michael
UserEmail: Killey@MSN.com
Date: 26 Jan 1997
Time: 00:31:35
Remote User:
Comments
Great short stories, I spent the last hour reading and enjoying most. Thanks! The site is well designed and the articles entertaining and at times frightening. Several hit home. A good overall composition of material. Keep up the good work, how often do you change stories?
UserName: Tracey Henley
UserEmail: thenley@nnsdc.com
Date: 27 Jan 1997
Time: 16:46:03
Remote User:
Comments
Bob Levey you ain’t. Is this stuff true? If it is, why aren’t you writing for our major dailies? I know, I know — you’re too hard-edged and this electronic medium allows you the freedom the Post Metro editors won’t. But hey — you’re really good. I’m definitely hooked on DC Darkside.
UserName: WILLIAM WILKINS
UserEmail: WWILKINS@CONCENTRIC.COM
Date: 01 Feb 1997
Time: 15:26:30
Remote User:
Comments
I read your “bleeding heart” on the dark side section of your site, you have exeptional skills in this format. ( My Uncle drools when I give him your articals, he has been a reporter for 40 years.) This weeks Dark Side is interesting, I have been in the same position as the board member on several occaions, at a much lower level, supervisior or second line manager, and I have never regreted giving someone a second chance.
In each occasion that I gave someone some help, the person involved was caught up in the “I am destroying my self because I am suppose to be….. (FILL IN THE BLANKS). Given help none of those people have ever returned to their previous self destructive behavior. It can be difficult, some people don’t want help, but some have an inner core that has been twisted and a little fire and forge can straightens out, these people can be saved.
To come back and reproach them after the fact is an abomonation, the person who does so is a jerk, I spent some time in the military and I can think of a lot stronger terms.
W. J. Wilkins
UserName: jillian
UserEmail: jmackin@mat.net
Date: 02 Feb 1997
Time: 01:44:31
Remote User:
Comments
This is one powerful website. I live in DC at the corner of 13th & Mass., NW. I know these people. I am these people. You are on the pulse of the good and the bad. Thanks for some great reading.
UserName: Walter Knowles
UserEmail: knowles@fp.com
Date: 12 Mar 1997
Time: 12:33:57
Remote User:
Comments
Just found your column. Excellent stuff!
UserName:
UserEmail:
Date: 14 Mar 1997
Time: 12:03:33
Remote User:
Comments
I THINK THAT THIS IS A REALLY NICE THING TO DO. IT’S INFORMING US , THE PEOPLE ABOUT WHAT’S GOING ON IN OUR CAPITAL.
UserName:
Walter Talbott
UserEmail:
wdt@ix.netcom.com
Date:
03 Apr 1997
Time:
18:57:08
Remote User:
Comments
Incredible site with fantastic writing.
Keep up the good work.
UserName:
Dina Mac
UserEmail:
dinamac@ici.net
Date:
05 Apr 1997
Time:
21:40:33
Remote User:
Comments
Thought the two stories I read were interesting. I’d like something in the title that would be a bit more illuminating about the subject matter. Keep up the good work.
UserName:
J. E. Guerra R.
UserEmail:
Date:
09 Apr 1997
Time:
01:09:04
Remote User:
Comments
Before I go any further with my comments, I would like to let you know that keeping this site out on the open in the net, is a great thing to do. Congratulations.
I was touched once again by this very sensitive topic. I have read and heard this stories before, and everytime, it makes me realize how unsifisticated and primitive, not to mention cruel, this world in which we live is.
The lives of many of this man were changed for ever, they were made to do things that will never be erased from their minds. While some may be able to deal with their past, others suffer an unjust penalty. A penalty for being turn into killing machines, and for all the memories of all the killing they were mentally forced to commit.
UserName:
Evey
UserEmail:
yvonne.m.fleming@usace.army.mil
Date:
16 Apr 1997
Time:
10:31:30
Remote User:
Comments
I love D.C. Darkside. I usually count the days until you put up a new story. And a lot of times I go back and read the old ones. They are great! Keep up the good work! I really enjoy it and so do all of my friends.
UserName:
GU
UserEmail:
Date:
25 Apr 1997
Time:
17:22:05
Remote User:
Comments
Sounds pretty familiar.
UserName:
Chris Irving
UserEmail:
patpat@netvigator.com
Date:
02 May 1997
Time:
13:25:38
Remote User:
Comments
One of your best (the heart attack man). Car theft, teenage porn stars, guns, going broke on $1m pa … great but essentially of sharpest interest in the US (or perhaps just DC). Middle aged man, heart/health etc … a universal theme! Language? Get a couple of quotes from real (=scientific approach to the subject) linguists, it’s fascinating, but not perhaps as big an impact as you wrote. Guns, cars, pollies (politicians), poverty, … rather too focussed on the peculiarities of US/DC society for my interest (Zairians have somewhat different concerns, as do Sao Paulo street kids, backwater Chinese peasant farmers, unemployed Spanish youth.
Hey, don’t get me wrong! You’re writing about the US/DC, so my views reflect just a reader in Hong Kong.
Now sex, there’s a universal human theme. Wow, what kind of wacky, wierd values do people there have??? Science has just begun to scratch the surface of where it all comes from (we are not plants, and at least we should understand what our hormones etc try to do with our bodies before we pontificate about how we should/should not behave). Perhaps a little more humility in our attitudes would be appropriate (not to mention tolerance). Of continual fascination to me is where does the incredible US (excuse my generalisations) up-tight attitudes to sex come from? Puritan antecedents? Over-weaning (Protestant) Christian ethics? Insecurity (“I’m not sure about my job, family or friends, so I’ll take it out on sex)? Unhealthy feedback (very free press, sex sells, so let’s beat up sex!)?
Hong Kong? It’s getting hotter and even more humid; US$1m for a pokey (900 square foot) apartment is a bargain, and annual salary rises have fallen to below 5% for the first time in 40+ years (but GDP/capita is still within the global top 10 on a PPP basis). So, objectively, this is one of the most advanced civilizations in the world; pity more of those a fair bit lower down the tree can’t see it, they might learn something valuable.
Keep up the good writing!
UserName:
JL
UserEmail:
jl8833@erols.com
Date:
21 May 1997
Time:
19:10:02
Remote User:
Comments
Doug,
I just read your story, “A Question of Manners.” I assume that the man in this story is you–if so, I say thanks to you. The sorry state of society these days and the total breakdown of societal manners is very disheartening. I am not an extremist in any sense of the word, however, I feel that “your” actions in this case (and in some of the earlier stories) were fully justified. I’m just jealous that I don’t have the necessary training to do the same things.
Great columns, I hope you keep writing them for a long while, since I have all friends hooked on them.
Thanks.
JL
UserName:
chuck
UserEmail:
chuck@olg.com
Date:
23 May 1997
Time:
23:52:51
Remote User:
Comments
Maybe we need some more guys like that ex-SEAL.
UserName:
Lacye
UserEmail:
lacye@temc.com
Date:
30 May 1997
Time:
17:35:38
Remote User:
Comments
Hi, Douglas. Hope you have a good weekend and are planning to spend a little time writing a new D.C. darkside–I need a little variation in my life. Enjoy. Lacye
UserName:
Will Kelly
UserEmail:
willk@tiac.net
Date:
16 Jun 1997
Time:
20:10:47
Remote User:
Comments
The stories touched a nerve. Very powerful writing. The site got me thinking of short stories again.
UserName:
al
UserEmail:
alinc@powernet.net
Date:
28 Jun 1997
Time:
13:29:53
Remote User:
Comments
excellent. best website of all
UserName:
Hasan Hakeem
UserEmail:
taqwa@usa.net
Date:
07 Jul 1997
Time:
09:38:32
Remote User:
Comments
Exceptional writing…interesting subject matter. I enjoy reading your columns.
UserName:
Don Wohlfarth
UserEmail:
wohlfrth@erols.om
Date:
21 Jul 1997
Time:
09:32:02
Remote User:
Comments
Congratulations, this is one of the best ideas you’ve had recently. You work too damn hard. Maybe you’ll find that there’s more to life than nursing your laptop. With fresh batteries maybe you’ll be able to find the green flag? Hope the fish are biting.
UserName:
Kathleen
UserEmail:
kricker@orion.it.luc.edu
Date:
22 Jul 1997
Time:
13:16:01
Remote User:
Comments
I became a fan of yours after moving to Virginia and discovering your column. Some of your stories really resonate with experiences people close to me have had. You force into the open some profound questions about power and violence that no one else seems willing to acknowledge.
Please don’t let this website lapse. This may sound a bit corny, but it really does seem to exemplify all that’s good about the Internet.
UserName:
Randy Wahl
UserEmail:
rwahl@iquest.net
Date:
22 Jul 1997
Time:
13:41:54
Remote User:
Comments
I enjoy your articles; but can appreciate the stress of gathering this type of information. Hope they bite well but not long. loook forward to more articles. Randy Wahl
UserName:
Chuck Chapman
UserEmail:
chuck@olg.com
Date:
22 Jul 1997
Time:
22:15:32
Remote User:
Comments
Doug, I’ll miss this column. It’s one of the few I keep coming back to, though I still need a search engine for my bookmark file. Enjoy the fishing time, but when you do come back, let us know. Thanks.
UserName:
Joanne Abalos
UserEmail:
abalos@erols.com
Date:
22 Jul 1997
Time:
22:55:47
Remote User:
Comments
Just wanted to say how much I enjoy Darkside. I check frequently for new postings. But I can understand how exhausting it must be to compose such emotionally wrenching articles and how you must need a break. Enjoy yourself, but come back. We’ll be waiting.
UserName:
Jim McCarthy
UserEmail:
mccomm@clark.net
Date:
24 Jul 1997
Time:
16:54:41
Remote User:
Comments
Take your time Doug — we’ll be here when you get back. The column is fantastic, like Steve Twomey without the rose-colored glasses!
Hope you catch a big one!
Jim
UserName:
Travis B. Truman
UserEmail:
ttruman@maaco.com
Date:
28 Jul 1997
Time:
10:56:16
Remote User:
Comments
Mr. Thompson,
Please know that while respect and certainly understand your need to take some time off from your creative control and direction of D.C. Darkside that your writing will be missed. I can remember checking Darkside infallibly every week after first reading about your site in the Post’s Fast Forward. Now, Darkside and Fast Forward are both at least temporarily no longer. Therefore, please accept my thanks for your insight and efforts thus far and my wishes for a rewarding vacation/hiatus. However, please continue to write when you feel you can.
UserName:
Randy Wahl
UserEmail:
rwahl@iquest.net
Date:
04 Aug 1997
Time:
01:14:16
Remote User:
Comments
Doug, I didn’t move as much as you did; but I lost my dad four months before I was born and no one can appreciate that unless they have lived it. Thanks for coming back on line. Randy
UserName:
Doug Friend
UserEmail:
catfishdug@bigfoot.com
Date:
05 Aug 1997
Time:
11:30:03
Remote User:
Comments
Hello,
I’ve been a visitor to D.C. many times due to my work. It was great to finally see the human side of such a plastic city. Thanks.
UserName:
Dick G
UserEmail:
goodwin@ezl.com
Date:
06 Sep 1997
Time:
14:16:47
Remote User:
Comments
Welcome back. -Dick
UserName:
John Leone
UserEmail:
LeonJ@webtv.net
Date:
23 Sep 1997
Time:
18:43:33
Remote User:
Comments
The city of D.C. is disgusting.
UserName:
Lynne
UserEmail:
a8044@erols.com
Date:
26 Oct 1997
Time:
22:30:51
Remote User:
Comments
I appreciate the fact that you write about topics that are not popular in the mainstream. Your topics are harsh but real. I enjoy the honesty. Our society is full of insulting sterotypes but no one ever wants to admit that they exist. There are very few places on the internet that hold my attention and have me looking forward to waht is new. Again, I applaud your efforts to publish the real world!
UserName:
Zack Wright
UserEmail:
zzwright@erols.com
Date:
06 Nov 1997
Time:
10:12:28
Remote User:
Comments
I enjoy the page immensely. Recently moved from D.C. after 3 years being there. The stories hit close to home sometimes. They also take me back when a bar I’ve been to is mentioned (Nathan’s), highways (Rte. 7), Dulles, etc. etc., I am taken back to DC, if only for a minute. In my case, Darkside is bookmarked for life. Keep up the excellent work!
UserName:
Allison Walls
UserEmail:
Date:
11/15/97
Time:
12:45:31 AM
Remote User:
Comments
Incredible, thought provoking stories. Thanks for the great read.
UserName:
Judy Rodriguez
UserEmail:
TazmansMom@aol.com
Date:
11/19/97
Time:
9:31:38 AM
Remote User:
Comments
Hi Doug! It’s wonderful to see you back in service again. Missed you when you went fishing. I’m happy to wait a little longer between stories. I wish I had some ideas or people you could talk to. I look forward to reading your stories and believe you are doing a wonderful thing for the area, opening a lot of eyes. :o) Take Care. Judy R.
UserName:
David Ascher
UserEmail:
Date:
12/7/97
Time:
9:49:56 PM
Remote User:
Comments
Doug,
UserName:
David Ascher
UserEmail:
Date:
12/7/97
Time:
9:55:33 PM
Remote User:
Comments
I don’t have an e-mail address @ this computer, but when I do, I’ll send you some more stuff. I really liked these stories. Are all of them true? Are you “Zipper”? Either way they’re great. And once I get my e-mail set up, I’ll send it to you so you can give it to TEMC. I’ll be in touch
David
UserName:
Aaron Z. Snyder
UserEmail:
maddawg@world.std.com
Date:
12/18/97
Time:
10:41:57 AM
Remote User:
Comments
I’m 53. Everybody I know is 50 and above or approaching that dreaded transition. Pop icons are turning fifty (heard James Taylor discussing this on the radio yesterday). Gray-haired near-senior-citizen women look sexy to me. My whole being seems absurd, and I’m enjoying the phenomenon immensely. Hence: I *loved* “A Pirate Looks at 50.” Great stuff! Keep up the good work!
UserName:
klaatu
UserEmail:
klaatu@clark.net
Date:
12/26/97
Time:
7:42:21 PM
Remote User:
Comments
Still knocking ’em dead I see!<p>
Please keep up the good work, you’re a resource like no other.
UserName:
Jonathan Wilson
UserEmail:
Date:
1/4/98
Time:
1:51:16 PM
Remote User:
Comments
I like the new look. Keep up the good work.
UserName:
russ
UserEmail:
kiler@doleta.gov
Date:
1/28/98
Time:
8:02:04 PM
Remote User:
Comments
veryinteresting. add me to your list
UserName:
russ
UserEmail:
kiler@doleta.gov
Date:
1/28/98
Time:
8:02:07 PM
Remote User:
Comments
veryinteresting. add me to your list
UserName:
ron
UserEmail:
Date:
2/20/98
Time:
2:45:59 AM
Remote User:
Comments
your darkside stories rock, but are you done with them? i check back every few days, only to be disappointed. just wondering. take it easy.
UserName:
Bobby J
UserEmail:
Date:
2/26/98
Time:
11:44:08 PM
Remote User:
Comments
As a life long resident of the D.C. area this site seems like the evening news. Why dont you guys add an open chat room where local happenings and the gathering of those that live here can exchange the daily going ons?…Keep the good work up…I am hanging in here…
UserName:
klaatu
UserEmail:
klaatu@clark.net
Date:
5/1/98
Time:
8:31:10 PM
Remote User:
Comments
Still kicking butts and taking names I see!
My heartfelt congratulations on your good works and better writing.
I don’t think I’ve seen much better writing anywhere. I was particularly amazed by your “child’s play” piece and the piece about “Callie” the call-girl.
I do believe we’ve found the new master of the twist-ending one-liner.
Saki and O. Henry would be proud.
UserName:
Mary
UserEmail:
kttn411@aol.com
Date:
5/15/98
Time:
1:58:10 PM
Remote User:
Comments
this is awesome and i hope that you will continue to do this because it is awesome and i love it!!!
UserName:
Jim McCarthy
UserEmail:
mccomm@clark.net
Date:
5/18/98
Time:
1:19:31 PM
Remote User:
Comments
Doug, Yet another fantastic piece — really enjoyed it. There’s just something so compelling about these stories of everyday people. It’s not just that you wouldn’t read them elsewhere (although that’s important) it’s more that they are about the kind of people we live and work with.
You deserve high esteem — keep it up!
Jim
UserName:
R. W. COKER
UserEmail:
RWCOKER@AOL.COM
Date:
5/26/98
Time:
4:32:46 PM
Remote User:
Comments
Though perhaps cynical and pessimistic, it is some of the most enjoyable and best writing on the net. I am reasonably sure that I am not aquainted with any of the personages who are subjects of the articles, but they do describe a lot of people and real life situations that I have known. Always look forward to a new column. Keep up the good work.
UserName:
w0ld0
UserEmail:
willck@hotmail.com
Date:
5/31/98
Time:
6:40:29 PM
Remote User:
Comments
This is kind of new for me because i found this by someone said that i should go to the site a read some story’s and i am shocked on how people can be so cruel in rapes and the other things that i read. I feel sorry for those woman. I think this was a cool page that people can tell there story’s and exspress there feelings.
UserName:
w0ld0
UserEmail:
willck@hotmail.com
Date:
5/31/98
Time:
6:41:29 PM
Remote User:
Comments
This is kind of new for me because i found this by someone said that i should go to the site a read some story’s and i am shocked on how people can be so cruel in rapes and the other things that i read. I feel sorry for those woman. I think this was a cool page that people can tell there story’s and exspress there feelings.
UserName:
Mike Weinstein
UserEmail:
mike.weinstein@gs.com
Date:
6/12/98
Time:
8:33:55 PM
Remote User:
Comments
I did not like pictures from the past!!! What the hell was that all about anyway?! This guy in the story sounds like he blew his chance not once but twice! He should have at least said “Well, it’s your loss, it looks like you haven’t really gotten over your problems after all.” before she slammed the door on him!
UserName:
Stan
UserEmail:
frogtown@fm-net.com
Date:
8/4/98
Time:
1:14:14 AM
Remote User:
Comments
I found this site over a month ago and have been anxiously waiting for more stories. This is one of the most moving sites on the net.
UserName:
Nathan Marsh
UserEmail:
namarsh@hotmail.com
Date:
8/12/98
Time:
2:40:34 AM
Remote User:
Comments
I was a Television Productions student of Darin Jensen’s at Woodbridge Senior High School. The article “Death of a Dream” brings back memories of a tragedy that dampened the lives of many. We lost a lot when we lost Mr. Jensen. He is truly missed.
UserName:
Don Blanton
UserEmail:
dblanton@vt.edu
Date:
8/14/98
Time:
12:43:41 AM
Remote User:
Comments
I was also a student of Darin Jensen’s (see “Death Of A Dream”). However, I disagree with you final conclusion. The “cluckers” didn’t win. Where he fell, many of us stood up in his place. Most of us are now in college, and many of those are considering or pursuing education as a minor (we’re mostly Comm majors). We lost a good man in Mr. Darin Jensen, but we were better people for knowing him. His passion for TV, for teaching, even for life, were contagious. On behalf of all of us from his class, thank you for not letting this story die. Don Blanton General Manager VTTV Student Television, Virginia Tech
Revised: 16 Jan 2005 03:24:59 -0500 .