i'm using mod_perl 1 and apache 1.3.x (don't remember the minor number).

i know i could use CGI, but i've been trying to make more use of the Apache::* modules.

but, reading the reference thread, something does stick out

It seems to me like your processes are getting corrupted by some C code or an improperly shared file handle or socket.
-- perrin

the "improperly shared filehandle" sticks out the most. i have a feeling my precedessor's approach to the application may be part of the problem. (with a  local *TEMPLATE stuck in one of the template loading modules)

oh well, back to CGI