Hello List, I have received many comments about researching in DC. I would like to say some things about those incompetent employees in the District of Columbia government however, some may take my comments the wrong way. So, I think the best course of action is to unite and bring attention to what is happening when you request documents from the government offices in DC. One thing I found is that you must have the parent's name of the newborn, if you are trying to get a birth certificate in DC. Now, most of us are trying to find the parents name in the first place and they don't understand or care about that fact! These rude people actually keep the $20.00, you have sent for the birth record. I think that the DC government should have a policy, that if the parents name is not included with the initial request, then they send the money back. They could ask for us to include a self addressed, stamped envelope. I'm tired of hearing about people being ripped off by those DC officials who really don't give a darn! I have also requested a birth record to find the names of my Great Grandparents and had my $20.00, kept because I didn't include their names!. I think we should unite and call the Mayor's office or another government official. I'd like to see the list members discuss this matter and start something positive to resolve this problem. Thanks, Helen