>I've been wondering why it is necessary to code a date (ex: dtoc{^1970.01.01})) with the hat(^) symbol included in the date. If it isn't placed inside the date, the compiler complains of an ambibuous date.

This is controlled by SET STRICTDATE
Set it to zero if you want to turn strict date checking off. I think it is wise to leave it on and to become acustomed to the long date.