I can run this webscript without problem, added to Data Dictionary\Web Scripts Extensions via the Add Content button:
simple.get.desc.xml
<webscript>
<shortname>Simple</shortname>
<description>Simple web script</description>
<url>/simple?name={nameArgument}</url>
</webscript>
simple.get.html.ftl
<html>
<body>
<p>Simple, ${args.name}!</p>
</body>
</html>
but the following webscript either doesn't run or returns a WebScriptException: Transaction must be active and synchronization is required
helloworld.get.desc.xml
<webscript>
<shortname>Hello World</shortname>
<description>Hello world web script</description>
<url>/helloworld?name={nameArgument}</url>
</webscript>
helloworld.get.html.ftl
<html>
<body>
<p>Hello, ${args.name}!</p>
<p>Foo: ${foo}</p>
</body>
</html>
helloworld.get.js
model.foo = "bar";
What is wrong with the second webscript? running on Alfresco EE 3.2 on Windows Vista