My only complaint about HTML::Template is that its templates break validators/reformatters such as HTML Tidy.

Nothing would make me happier than to be proved wrong on this, though ...
(yeah, I'm an old SGML type. Things that don't validate worry me.)

Update, Aug 5: In an attempt to prevent further XP slide, I have to admit that I hadn't RTFM quite thoroughly enough before posting. In addition to the method given by mbadolato below, there's also the vanguard_compatibility_mode option, which allows you to code simple variables as %NAME%.

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bowling trophy thieves, die!