[USMA:45143] Re: Draft Directive on Units
Eugene, Also please forward your email to Jeffrey Hanley, the NASA Constellation program manager. I was unable to find a NASA email for him, but he's on LinkedIn if anyone has an account there: http://www.linkedin.com/pub/jeff-hanley/b/556/6b4 On Monday, everyone on this list is to pick up the phone and call their Congressional representatives of both houses. And to USMA HQ: YOU BETTER BE ON THE PHONE WITH FOLKS IN D.C. AS WELL! If nothing can be expected from them, I say it's time to make an end run around our own government and make contact with foreign governments who are expected to be participants in this program with NASA. Can you tell I'm royally pissed off!!?? On 30 May 2009, at 14:08, mech...@illinois.edu wrote: From: mech...@illinois.edu Date: 30 May 2009 14:05:53 EDT To: brian.k.muirh...@nasa.gov Subject: Draft Directive on Units Dear Brian: The draft Management Directive on units of measurement has been brought to my attention. As a veteran of ten years service at NASA-MSFC, and author of NASA SP-7012, before joining the faculty at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign where I did upper atmosphere research with NASA sounding rockets, I remain, as a retiree, a firm advocate of SI for all NASA future activities. NASA can enjoy the full benefits of efficient cooperation with the several other space exploring nations of this world only if NASA continues on its path toward full implementation of SI in all aspects of space exploration; hardware and data. NASA policy requires SI. Exceptions must be increasingly rare. Please do what you can to reject efforts to deviate from SI. Reject non-SI units from the 19th Century. Eugene A. Mechtly, PhD
[USMA:45144] Letter to Whitehouse re: NASA english CxP
Here we are in the 21st century with a history making President who promised change. I just heard that NASA intends to stay with the un-modern, un- scientific, incoherent, 19th century English set of measurement units for its Constellation program, the program that is to replace the space shuttle. I AM POSITIVELY ASHAMED that this country continues to fumble and bumble along -- one step forward, two steps back -- when it comes to changing to the internationally recognized system of units we call the metric system! HOW MUCH MORE inefficiency and loss of capital do we have to endure before my government decides to fulfill its responsibility to establish weights and measures, as specified in the Constitution, and finally adopt the SI measurement system? The USA and two other third world countries are the only three that have yet to do this. MAKE THE CHANGE and tell NASA NO to English measurements going forward. PLEASE!
[USMA:43072] Re: Action: Economic Stimulus Package
On 17 Feb 2009, at 19:21, David wrote: That's true. Maybe we should start lobbying TV shows instead of Congress. ;) Actually, is that a route we should explore? How hard would it be to email Oprah or Ellen and ask them to support metrication? It can't hurt and at least metric would get some media coverage. I guess if you have a TV show you could probably control the world. =) The TV person has to be educated enough to know how to present the argument correctly. You can forget it if it becomes an exercise in calculator proficiency. It has to be taught by using common reference points and every day experience. Any conversion must be done entirely within the metric system, not between systems.
[USMA:42980] Re: Action: Economic Stimulus Package
Paul, I've modified your letter a bit and am sending this to my reps as well. The economic disaster brings us fresh opportunity to think about the things that aren't working and make fixing those things part of our economic stimulus. A great example of this is that our broken customary measurement system needs to be done away with in favor of metric. Currently, we use a confusing and out dated jumble of measurements rather than the user-friendly system the rest of the world uses. I believe this is a major factor that makes our economy less efficient than that of other countries and makes our exports less desirable. The confusing nature of this cacophony of units leads to substantial losses such as the $125M Mars orbiter and the $25,000 Congress wasted last year because of a conversion error when buying carbon credits. It leads to errors in medicine: children ending up in E.R. because of conversion errors and errors of understanding that stem from parents using tea spoons out of the utensil drawer rather than a proper measuring spoon when administering a prescription denoted in teaspoons instead of milliliters. It also leads to extremely valuable time wasted in our classrooms as we have to teach our children a difficult set of units and calculations using those units rather than the much more straight forward metric version, where calculations often are as simple as moving a decimal point. Our children emerge from school unprepared for the global economy because they're unable to effectively use the global language of measurement. It's time to fix this mess. Please incorporate the following items either in the economic stimulus package currently being debated or in near future legislation: - require that new infrastructure built with the stimulus package is done exclusively using metric measures; - that all new laws passed by Congress, effective immediately, make exclusive use of metric measurement when physical dimensions are prescribed; - that a plan for compulsory conversion to metric in public policy and public works, including highway signs, national news and weather reporting, as well as consumer retail regulations, is one of the goals of this stimulus plan; - that a comprehensive public education initiative be undertaken to explain the reasons for these policies that were begun in the 1970s then canceled by the Reagan administration. Our nation was the very first in the world to use a decimal based currency, yet we still haven't made a decimal system of measurement the only legal system.
[USMA:42366] Re: question on image sensor formats
Welcome to the group. That error message occurred on the recipient's end -- don't worry about it because we all received your original question (you should have received a copy of your own message as well so you know it went through). To answer your question, I found this page http://homepages.ihug.com.au/~parsog/photo/sensors1.html It appears the reason for this notation is historical. Some of those mixed unit/decimal fractions are irrational in every sense of the word (mathematical and otherwise).
[USMA:42368] Re: Is there any literature on metrication in the US aimed at immigrants?
On 19 Jan 2009, at 11:39, Michael Payne wrote: Same with my Safeway in Virginia. They actually took them away when they revamped the store and replaced them with pound only scales, I complained to the manager and all the dual unit scales were replaced. Mike Payne That's good to hear. Keep asking for metric quantities so they know there's demand. I'll continue to do it even though it's a pain and inconvenience for the counter worker. It's our right and responsibility; it says so in 15USC205b. Maybe we should all print out that section and hand it to store management and counter workers with a verbal comment that you intend to comply and expect the store to do the same. The idea for the customer flyer would have to be simple and to the point if there's going to be enough room for multiple languages to include English, Spanish, French, Hindi, Arabic, Russian. It's nice that the symbols are the same in every language, so those should definitely be included. It would have to quote the above section of the U.S. code; inform the customers that they have a choice in what units of measure they prefer; and that if the USA is ever going to complete its conversion, most likely it will come from people requesting it every time they go shopping. I've wondered what it is that retailers, weather people on TV, and news journalists are waiting for before they start to make the switch.. is it a constitutional amendment, law with enforceable penalties, or a booming voice from the sky commanding that thou shalt metricate? Barring any of the above, it has to come from the demand of the people.
[USMA:42355] Re: Is there any literature on metrication in the US aimed at immigrants?
On 18 Jan 2009, at 09:39, Pierre Abbat wrote: It appears that the immigrants try to conform to what they think is the way we do it. Is there any literature aimed at people who come here already knowing metric, but haven't lived through the introduction of metric in the 1970s, empowering them to push Americans to metricate? Pierre I think you're right in suggesting that immigrants, most of whom are inherently from metricated countries, feel it's not their place to complain about the way things are done here regarding measurement. The thought of producing some kind of a handout to be given to immigrants in the grocery store has occurred to me. This could be produced in an attractive way, written in multiple languages, and would ask the patrons to request of store management the posting of metric pricing signs in the produce, deli, and meats departments for example. The stores would also have to be equipped with switchable scales, as all the grocery stores I visit use scales that are only capable of displaying lbs. I've written to the stores I shop at and my request has been summarily ignored, but they probably would take notice if they received many similar requests. I've even offered to buy a new dual unit hanging scale for a local coffee roaster/store if they'd price their beans by the kilo or 100g in addition to their lbs. Again there was no response.
[USMA:42332] Re: Citizen's Briefing Book
Excellent.. This is the transition team's .GOV website. I did not sign up on the other one (no telling what the .org site was doing with the information they collected).
[USMA:42315] Re: Fact or opinion?
I copied this off of a post at http://twodollarbill.us of all places. -- Q. Which weighs more, an ounce of feathers or an ounce of gold? A. The ounce of gold, because: * gold is weighed by the troy ounce (31.10 grams), and * feathers are weighed by the avoirdupois ounce (28.35 grams). Q. Which weighs more, a pound of feathers or a pound of gold? A. The pound of feathers, because: * there are 16 avoirdupois ounces in an avoirdupois pound, totaling 453.60 grams of feathers, but * there are only 12 troy ounces in a troy pound, which works out to 373.20 grams of gold.
[USMA:42161] Re: Another metric enthusiast
On 08 Dec 2008, at 23:16, Pat Naughtin wrote: Dear All, You might like to visit http://ebfryer.com/2008/12/07/metrication/ with a view to giving this guy some support. Metric is not a math problem.
[USMA:41911] Re: Help urge the President-elect to support metric
Great idea, Jesse. I've done it, just now. I'd hope many of the rest of our people would do the same. What a coïncidence; I did the same thing earlier this morning. On a similar note: One of the MSNBC personalities, Rachel Maddow, had an online poll and comments section for viewers to suggest what Obama's priorities should be. Rachel read through some of them on the air, and as she was reaching the bottom of her list, I had this premonition that she'd say something about the metric system.. sure enough! Someone had made that suggestion and she read it aloud. Her comment was something along the line of 'I like that one!'.
[USMA:41610] Re: Comments to Morining edition
If they're following A.P. style then meters and yards are equal. Say for example the reporting calls for meters: you're virtually guaranteed to see (yards) immediately following. I don't believe I've ever seen the reverse. On 19 Aug 2008, at 16:41, Michael Payne wrote: Sent a few days ago to National Public Radio reference their morning edition program. Michael Payne In your story this morning (Wednesday) on the Russians in Georgia, your correspondent stated the woman told me I am 2 yards from a Russian tank. I find this hard to believe as no one outside the US uses yards, it was more likely meters.
[USMA:41342] Re: SI and sports
In my efforts at teaching reason to the unwashed American masses, I try to instill that idea that metric is not about conversion. The first reaction from just about anyone when describing something in SI terms is how much is that in ... feet,pounds,inches,miles, whatever. The best (and only) way to truly learn it is by citing reference points and examples (5 g is the mass of a US nickel (5¢), 1 kg is the mass of a liter of water (2 kg is the mass of a 2 L bottle of pop whoa!), 50 meters is the length of an olympic swimming pool... 30 is hot, 20 is nice, 10 is cool, 0 is ice... Ask anyone why their first reaction is to convert. How did they learn their fahrenheit, feet and pounds in the first place? It wasn't by converting from some baby-speak system of measurement.. it was by example and context, just like you said. Total immersion is the only way to do it, just like learning a language. No difference at all. Yea, Mike, tonight on NBC nightly news they were talking about the female five-time olympic swimmer at age 41 and highlighting the record- breaking times it's taking her to swim 50 meters. Period On 07 Jul 2008, at 18:54, Michael Palumbo wrote: All, I'm sitting at a bar in the Philadelphia Airport, awaiting a flight to Germany. The TVs are all tuned to ESPN, sports TV. They're talking Olympic events, specifically swimming. All swimming events are in meters, and the announcers are using the proper terminology without issue. They even went so far as to comment on proper times, in seconds, per 10 meters. Americans might not know feet to meter conversions, but they get meters in this context. -Mike
[USMA:41290] Re: Hydrogen fuel for autos sold by the kilogram
You're confusing weight and pressure. I quite often hear people refer to pressure by only saying 'pounds' (I put 35 pounds of air in my car tire). If that were the case, an inflated car tire would weight significantly more than a flat tire. It's been a while since I took chemistry, so please correct me if I'm wrong: it seems that selling H2 by the kilogram is due to the connection to molecular weight, which is grams per mol. By using kilograms, you can determine fairly accurately how many atoms of hydrogen you're buying. On 30 Jun 2008, at 21:07, Remek Kocz wrote: Hmmm, isn't chemical engineering stuck mainly in imperial mode in the US? I always thought that liquid/solid gases would have been sold by the pound, since their pressures in tanks are measured in PSI. Remek
[USMA:40523] Re: Oil pricing by the barrel
China does, and I think Russia too, price it by the tonne. On 07 Mar 2008, at 18:38, Pierre Abbat wrote: On Friday 07 March 2008 02:07, Pat Naughtin wrote: Is there anyone who reports the price of oil per litre or per tonne? I've been in Brazil, and they report oil in barrels there. Pierre
[USMA:39743] Re: heparin medication error and the deadly decimal place
On Nov 21, 2007, at 1:52 PM, James Frysinger wrote: It would seem to me to be easy to overlook the c and to read mcg as mg, since both start and end with the same letters. This reminded me of something I saw in a chain email: More Brain Stuff . . From Cambridge University . O lny srmat poelpe can raed tihs. I cdnuolt blveiee taht I cluod aulaclty uesdnatnrd waht I was rdanieg. The phaonmneal pweor of the hmuan mnid, aoccdrnig to a rscheearch at Cmabrigde Uinervtisy, it deosn't mttaer in waht oredr the ltteers in a wrod are, the olny iprmoatnt tihng is taht the frist and lsat ltteer be in the rgh it pclae. The rset can be a taotl mses and you can sitll raed it wouthit a porbelm. Tihs is bcuseae the huamn mnid deos not raed ervey lteter by istlef, but the wrod as a wlohe. Amzanig huh? yaeh and I awlyas tghuhot slpeling was ipmorantt! if you can raed tihs psas it on !! Psas Ti ON !
[USMA:39496] Re: 60 seconds for the metric system
I like the rapid fire quiz in the vein of which is bigger: 13/16 in or 7/8 in ? which is bigger: 12 mm or 18 mm ? Ask if anyone knows what Title 15, sec 204 of the U.S. code says? How about Title 15, sec 205b? (answer: the metric law of 1866 and the omnibus act of 1988 expressing preference for said system). And then ask Can anyone tell me where colonial units are allowed under law? On Sep 30, 2007, at 18:55, Amy Wang wrote: Hello everyone, I am a recent graduate who did a master's thesis on the metric system. Coincidentally, I have been nominated as one of 20 young designers to speak at a national design conference on October 11th (National Metric Week!) in front of 2,500 designers, design educators, and design commentators. Each of us has 60 seconds to speak on any subject, and I want to make mine an opportunity to spread the word on metrication. Although I have an idea what facts would most startle and impress a newcomer audience, I think the collective experience on this mailing list is greater than my own knowledge any day. So I am writing you for your input: what are the most memorable news items you've seen recently on this subject? To an initially indifferent public, what are facts that you've discovered to be most memorable to them? I am looking for facts that can be very easily and quickly conveyed in these 60 seconds. Here is more information on the conference: http://designconference2007.aiga.org/ Here are a few images from my thesis project. The complete campaign and supporting arguments have been printed into 1000 books recently, which I am going to mail out to people I hope can make a difference once they become aware of the issue. http://www.adobe.com/education/adaa/winners/2006/wang.html I hope you will be willing to help me, and look forward to reading some exciting new news articles. Amy.
[USMA:39337] Re: USDA-FSA non-metric
It's been legal since 1866, even before EO12770, and is more pertinent. Submit your registration in metric units and leave it at that; ignore their grumbling. If they come knocking later, tell them about 1866. -Original Message- From: James R Frysinger [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Sep 5, 2007 10:04 AM To: U.S. Metric Association usma@colostate.edu Subject: [USMA:39335] USDA-FSA non-metric I went to the offices of our local Farm Services Administration yesterday to register my farm under the provisions of the National Animal Identification System (NAIS). As requested, I took in a drawing of our farm (on a topographic background) so they could check their GIS records of its location and extent. Naturally my drawing used a metric distance scale and I provided the area of the farm in hectares. Unfortunately, FSA (part of the USDA) apparently is non-metric. I gently chided the agent for violating EO 12770 and gave metrication a brief pitch to her and her staff. There were no signs that an immediate conversion was about to take place, unfortunately. I may have to rummage around and find the best place within FSA/USDA and relevant Tennessee offices to send a message about this. The NAIS is a whole 'nother hot potato. So far NAIS compliance is voluntary in Tennessee, though mandatory in some other states. Eventually it will surely become mandatory everywhere. I told the agent that she was free to come out at any time to put ear tags on my chickens while I watched. Jim
[USMA:38985] Re: TIME magazine goes metric?
http://gawker.com/news/wtf/time-switches-to-the-metric-system-272475.php On Jun 29, 2007, at 18:38, Paul Trusten, R.Ph. wrote: Hold the phone!! Before we roar off into iPhone, could someone please direct us to the original link about managing editor Stengel of TIME announcing the use of dual-unit reporting in that magazine? That is huge! I could not find that item on the TIME Web site. Thanks, -- Paul Trusten, R.Ph. Public Relations Director U.S. Metric Association, Inc. Phone (432)528-7724 www.metric.org 3609 Caldera Boulevard, Apartment 122 Midland TX 79707-2872 USA mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] http://home.grandecom.net/~trusten
[USMA:38807] Re: Demand Metric RE: Vision and Goals
I like it. Can the original designer of the sticker I have in my signature make the change and print a batch? There might be a concern with space unless the width is expanded or rearranged somehow. Or how about something like a campaign slogan: Metric for America or Demand Metric for America ? Jason Darfus Columbus, OH USA inline: GO_METRIC.jpg On May 31, 2007, at 17:27, Matthew Zotter wrote: 2007 MAY 31 THU Perhaps the USMA Go Metric bumper sticker should say Demand Metric. This would clearly convey how the USA would become metric. Go Metric allows the observer to let-someone-else-change-things where Demand Metric requires the observer to do something and it tells them what to do. It is written as a command rather that a statement, which is pushy; but that's OK with me. Sincerely, Matthew Zotter Cincinnati, OH, USA -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Paul Armstrong Sent: Wednesday, May 30, 2007 5:57 AM To: U.S. Metric Association Cc: [EMAIL PROTECTED]; [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: [USMA:38787] Vision and Goals In December of last year, Pat posted a mail in response to one of mine pointing out that leadership is what's needed to make this fly. In April, Harry posted a message about being pessimistic at our current approach towards metrication and the lack of progress we're currently making. Remek replied to this pointing out that we need to follow a more sales like approach and cast it in the light of if you do this you can make/save a _lot_ of money. When I started the Go Metric site, it was my intention to have a place that we could use to band together to become more politically active and more effective at promoting metrication (thus I based it on a wiki so that anyone could add information to the site). It was pretty much entirely motivated by Pats statement about a lack of leadership and I was (and still am) hoping to provide that leadership. In that light, I've started putting together a vision and a set of goals we can work towards. http://gometric.us/xwiki/bin/view/Main/Vision The corresponding thread on the forum is: http://gometric.us/jforum/posts/list/48.page Obviously, this is just a start. If we're going to actually make a difference, we need to work together to set and _achieve_ goals that lead to a final vision. I truly think that metrication is achievable in the USA, we just need to be focused the end goal and the steps that directly lead to it. Paul -- End dual-measurement, let's finish going metric! http://gometric.us/ http://www.metric.org/
[USMA:38808] Reduced speed limits
I'm starting to hear in the media talk of reducing the nationwide speed limit to 55 (or 60) mph again. Heads up -- wouldn't that be a perfect time to switch to metric speed limit signs?
[USMA:38476] Ohio wind article
A little something of local interest, but there's an added bonus. http://www.ohio.com/mld/ohio/news/17103474.htm Jason Darfus Columbus, OH USA attachment: GO_METRIC.jpg
[USMA:38011] Re: Metric only tape measure
Stanley Tools customer service once referred me to www.raitools.com when asked where to get metric only tapes. They're out of the U.K. but they'll ship to USA and Europe. On Feb 18, 2007, at 13:52, Brian White wrote: OOO babyee...where did you get that? Where can I get one! :) On Sun, 18 Feb 2007 10:37:49 -0800, lps wrote Well folks, no where in North America can a metric only tape measure be found. Or at least it feels that way. I got my hands on this baby. Have a look. At last no more dual units! Those of you who are familiar with a dual unit tape measure, the inch part is favored, so that it is easiest to use. Not any more. I tossed my inch only tape measure Goodwill basket today. LPS
[USMA:37248] Re: Orion
From what I understand of NASA's policy on metric usage, it's per program. I remember hearing flight controllers using metric units, but this was several years ago. Mission controllers used metric just recently during the Mars landings (Spirit and Opportunity). There I remember hearing a mix, so even within the same program there can be both USC and SI. So yes, hopefully the entire Constellation program, including Orion, will be 99.999% SI (except for that pesky PSI thing). On Sep 1, 2006, at 11:04, Remek Kocz wrote: Yes, it's embarrasing, but I think that the rest of the world knows about our special situation. Their news outles probably translate this to metric. I doubt that the flight control will switch to metric anytime soon. Glad to see that the design and flight calculations are metric, though. On 9/1/06, Nat Hager [EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: Also its not just the design, but the flight calculations. I get embarrassed for the country every time I hear flight controllers saying spacecraft xx miles downrage and velocity yy feet/second going out over international news. Nat From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]] On Behalf Of Remek Kocz Sent: Friday, 2006 September 01 9:50 To: U.S. Metric Association Cc: U.S. Metric Association Subject: [USMA:37245] Re: Orion Hehe, that was my first thought when I heard the news. Glad to see that the specs are all metric. They're still using PSI for pressure though. Some things just can't be gotten rid of. Remek On 9/1/06, Nat Hager III [EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: So Lockheed Martin's been awarded the contract to build the space-shuttle replacement, named Orion. I certainly hope the entire design is metric, it looks encouraging at: http://www.nasa.gov/pdf/140636main_ESAS_05.pdf Nat Jason Darfus Columbus, OH USA attachment: GO_METRIC.jpg
[USMA:36619] Re: metric stands alone
Have you seen these new individual servings of wine? They're packaged like drink boxes. We'll see whether the standard size ends up being 187 mL or 250. In any case, we can look forward to Sunday paper ads showing only metric quantities and news articles / individuals referring to such items only in metric terms when FPLA is modernized. http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/12374800/
[USMA:36484] Re: Contractors resisting metrication (was April 1)
My only problem is from page 139 onward (PDF). The correct answers would be do we care? On Apr 6, 2006, at 15:53, Mike Millet wrote: I just found this link to a PowerPoint presentation that might help contractors in New York ease their transition http://www.nibs.org/MetricShow/MSS2000.ppt#286,31,FACTS I had no idea that the US building industry had converted or was converting so extensively. I know building codes are still in feet and the general workers work in feet and inches but with them buying so much more SI products conversion seems pretty likely whether the New York contractors want to or not . Mike -- The boy is dangerous, they all sense it why can't you?
[USMA:36476] Re: Digital time
There remains roughly 3.5 years until 10:10:10 10/10/10 On Apr 4, 2006, at 20:42, Pat Naughtin wrote: Dear All, At 2 minutes and three seconds past 1 a.m. on April 5, 2006, the time on a digital clock (in the USA) might read: 01:02:03:04:05:06 Cheers, Pat Naughtin PO Box 305 Belmont 3216 Geelong, Australia 61 3 5241 2008 [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://www.metricationmatters.com P.S. All-right, I know that this is not compatible with ISO 8601. Jason Darfus Columbus, OH USA attachment: GO_METRIC.jpg
[USMA:36458] Re: April 1
Howard, Why does NYSDOT even care what the contractors and suppliers think about SI? You guys are the 1-tonne gorilla. If they don't like that your shop is SI, then they (suppliers) lose your business or their jobs (contractors). Draw the line and stand by it. On Apr 3, 2006, at 09:05, Howard Ressel wrote: Anecdotally I do not believe the US Civil Engineering profession opposes metric at all. Of course common practice, working in the US today, requires use of units that our clients prefer (for most Civil works in the US that means English). Although the New York State Department of Transportation is SI (with the distinct possibly of reconversion to English in the near future) most of our Engineers are quite comfortable with SI and not opposed to it's use. The bigger problem is our Contractors and suppliers. I think tough that relates more to the inconstancy in the industry. No one wants to be first but suppliers and fabricators really object when they have to work SI for the NYSDOT and English for a County or private developer. Of course Civil firms that work internationally design in SI for those countries. I don't think that is a big deal. Howard Ressel Project Design Engineer, Region 4 (585) 272-3372 Martin Vlietstra [EMAIL PROTECTED] 04/02/06 1:28 AM To what extent does the US civil engineering profession and the oil industry oppose metrication? The civil engineers have a vested interest as it prevents foreign companies from competing on US soil while, for projects in developing countries, it is not unknown for contractors to be selected on grounds other than best tender. The oil industry is US dominated. The United Kingdom has a body set up by Parliament called The Engineering Council. This is an umbrella organisation for all the engineering organisations in the UK. Members include the Institution of Civil Engineers, Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers, Institution of Mechanical Engineers, The British Computer Society (of which I am a member) and many others. It is noteworthy that although there are 34 members, none is specifically connected with the oil industry. While working in the oil industry, I looked at publications of the Society of Petroleum Engineers which is a US organisations that has a chapter in the UK. Given this and the way in which the oil industry uses imperial units tells me that the US oil industry is blocking metrication in order to preserve is control of the industry. It has also been suggested to me that certain US politicians (who shall be nameless) have received considerable assistance from t! he oil industry, particularly from Texas. - Original Message - From: Phil Chernack To: U.S. Metric Association Sent: Sunday, April 02, 2006 12:58 AM Subject: [USMA:36434] Re: April 1 I disagree. I think it all comes down to marketing and sales. Metrication has to be marketed correctly. Through education and thorough explanation of the need to metricate and making sure the message is indeed received by the masses, we could shorten the time from 20 or 50 years to 5 to 10. What sounds better: the Metric Conversion act or the Keep America Competitive act? People have to be convinced metrication is fairly painless and that their world won't change drastically. We've stated it before here, people don't fear metric, they fear change. It's not the conversion per se, but the cost, both financially and mentally people fear. With the proper sales and marketing, people need to be convinced that metrication necessary for us to retain and grow our edge in a global marketplace, not only in terms of economy, but also in terms of education. We all know the benefits, we just now have to get the right cheerleaders (salespeople) on board. Some politicians and bu! sinesspeople can sell ice cubes to Eskimos; they should be able to sell metrication to Americans. Phil --- --- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Mike Millet Sent: Saturday, April 01, 2006 5:54 PM To: U.S. Metric Association Subject: [USMA:36431] Re: April 1 Judging from the angry volume of responses they got I don't think any state would dare EVER switch anything :). They'd have the mob going for their blood. It makes me wonder if the only way we'll go fully metric is if we continue the gradual transition over the next 20 years or so. Phase it in rather than announcing it and pushing for a quick transition as we should have done. Mike -- The boy is dangerous, they all sense it why can't you? Jason Darfus Columbus, OH USA attachment: GO_METRIC.jpg
[USMA:36462] Re: April 1
I note your use of nearly every and almost always, so we don't know with certainty that's how it would play. There have to be contractors and suppliers out there who will do the work in SI. If the American ones are stupid enough not to, I could see the possibility of insourcing the work from outside the country - we're surrounded by metric countries. On Apr 3, 2006, at 14:00, Mike Millet wrote: The only problem with that philosophy is that nearly every contractor and sub contractor in the US that the various DOT's or whatever farm work out to will almost always refuse to work in SI. The problem then becomes, how long can the supervisor wait on the project while he and the contractors standoff. If the project falls behind schedule or budget, that supervisors head will roll. So it kind of becomes a choice between Do I let them have their inches? or Do I insist on SI and have them complain to my supervisor and make a big fuss and possibly even lose my job I agree with you that the DOT's should be allowed to force SI but sadly I think what I just described is the reality. Mike -- The boy is dangerous, they all sense it why can't you? Jason Darfus Columbus, OH USA attachment: GO_METRIC.jpg
[USMA:36444] Re: April 1
Has anyone started a dialog with the radio folks? I'm curious to know if they received any favorable reaction from their listeners. On Apr 1, 2006, at 17:53, Mike Millet wrote: Judging from the angry volume of responses they got I don't think any state would dare EVER switch anything :). They'd have the mob going for their blood. It makes me wonder if the only way we'll go fully metric is if we continue the gradual transition over the next 20 years or so. Phase it in rather than announcing it and pushing for a quick transition as we should have done. Mike -- The boy is dangerous, they all sense it why can't you?
[USMA:36421] Re: More metric cheerleading with SSID
As the Guiness brothers would say : BRILLIANT! :-) On Apr 1, 2006, at 00:54, [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I found a clever way to increase metric visibility among wireless Internet users. I have the broadcast SSID on my wireless network set to display GO METRIC! as the network name. Since there are 2 cafes on the block, laptop users will see the GO METRIC! SSID whenever they search for a network connection. (This works well in crowded urban neighborhoods like mine where I can detect 7 wireless networks from my living room - probably not so well in suburbia). Anyone else with a wireless router in an urban area care to follow the lead? -- Scott Hudnall San Francisco, CA USA [EMAIL PROTECTED]
[USMA:34871] Re: Picking apart FMIs arguments
If FMI is opposed to voluntary metric-only labeling, then maybe it should be mandatory metric-only labeling? On 14 Oct 2005, at 23:53, Ezra Steinberg wrote: I just re-read FMI's oppostion to volunatry metric-only labelling. (See http://www.fmi.org/gr/issues/gr_issues_display.cfm?id=113 ) It seems like there are some issues that can be addressed one by one. (For example, the issue of other government regulations that get in the way of allowing metric-only labelling, such as those that affect the WIC program, is one that should be addressed.) I'm wondering if the USMA has ideas for mitigating or alleviating some of the issues that FMI raises. Ezra
[USMA:34562] Re: Upgrade to metric
Okay, let's see how many are able to read this without it getting dropped by spam filters: -- How about something along the lines of Size DOES matter, so get a bigger stick. [meter vs yard] Go Metric! At least it would make a funny bumper sticker. On 19 Sep 2005, at 11:09, Remek Kocz wrote: we could have a campaign slogan of Upgrade Your Measuring System combined with a nationwide consumer education campaign
[USMA:34450] Fwd: National Metric Week
In response to my letters to local TV stations for National Metric Week, I have gotten one response so far. He thinks most people don't want the change to metric, so he did a poll of those around him. According to him, the poll verified his suspicions. I don't know how his question was posed so it's hard to say if it was biased or not. On this point, has USMA considered funding a nation-wide poll through Gallup or USA Today? Perhaps we're afraid of what the results might be? - Jason D. Darfus Columbus.OH.US attachment: USMA.jpg Begin forwarded message: From: Nunnally, Bob (NBC Universal, WCMH) Date: 14 September 2005 08:47:41 EDT To: 'Jason Darfus' Subject: RE: National Metric Week Jason, I really don't believe the interest is there. A poll of my co-workers, neighbors and folks at my supermarket was more than indifferent. They don't want the change. I'm more indifferent myself. I deal with the metric system with our weather maps like Jym. The conversions are a pain, but I don't really dislike it. I have never made the Communist connection you're talking about. Maybe, since our language seems to be the standard, we should be working to get the rest of the world back to our system of measures. Bob Nunnally -Original Message- From: Jason Darfus Sent: Tuesday, September 13, 2005 2:57 PM To: Nunnally, Bob (NBC Universal, WCMH) Subject: Re: National Metric Week Bob, I have some thoughts in response to your reply. It's a bit long but my arguments tend to be. Hopefully you'll get a chance to read through it. On 12 Sep 2005, at 07:28, Nunnally, Bob (NBC Universal, WCMH) wrote: > Hi Jason, > > I doubt you'll see much use of the metric system because I don't think > most people in this country want to make the change. I think that assumption may be a little dated. At worst, I would say most people are indifferent rather than outright against a change. Your assumption may have been true back in the 70s and 80s when it might have been considered Communist or against the interest of the country when we were leaders in education and economic activity. Things have changed. I'm sure you're aware of our slipping rankings in school math and science. You're also aware of the rising influence of China and Europe in the global economy. As a matter of fact, the 25 states of the EU constitute a larger economic bloc than the 50 states of the USA. English is the global language of business and base-10 metric is the global language of measurement. We have only gotten it 50% right so far. There's a reason why it's called the International System of Units. Quick! What is 15 x 10? What is 15 x 16? (no calculators, please) See what I mean? To not re-emphasize metric to our population is to get left behind the rest of the world. > I have seen the numbers slowly creep on to most products as an > addition and alternative to the old English system, but I don't know a > single person who knows these measurements. I would venture to guess that most people don't look at the contents of a package but rather just buy the small, medium, large, jumbo, etc... One might wonder whether or not if metric were more overt to the public rather than hidden (like a weatherman converting ºC from NWS to ºF for the nightly news [Jym told me your weather maps are in Celsius]), people might truly understand the nutritional information on food packaging, thus resulting in a nation with fewer fat people, or whether there might be fewer deaths related to drug dosage errors or whether money might be saved by not crashing very expensive spacecraft on Mars because some head-in-the-sand government contractor decided to use Ye-Olde English when designing his portion of the craft. The bottom line is this: going FULLY metric will only have a very SHORT-term cost in money and adjustment but it is so much outweighed, in multiples of magnitude, by the long-term benefits. What is the worst that could happen by switching your rainfall reports to millimeters or liters/sq. meter or barometric pressure to millibars? Like I said earlier, TWC already uses mbar for hurricanes. You might hear from some very small number of some very vocal detractors but eventually it'll be like a 2.0L engine or like a 2L bottle of pop, or a 500 mg Tylenol or a 750 mL bottle of wine or a 500 mL bottle of water or a 100 W light bulb or a 4x100 m relay race or a 20 kg bag of dog food. People will get a feel for what it means to receive 3 mm of rain (3 L/m2) or that a nice day comes with an air pressure of 1020 mbar, just as a hurricane might come with a low pressure somewhere around 950 mbar. Only long-term positives, no matter how you look at it, can come from it. I'm just asking for a week from Oct 9-15. See what percentage of your viewers throw a tantrum. Jason > -Original Message----- > From: Jason Darfus > Sent: Sunday, September 1
[USMA:34452] Re: National Metric Week [End]
Your informal poll results are interesting, albeit discouraging. The sample size, cross section of those polled, as well as how the question was posed have an effect on the outcome. That said, I'd like to get the US Metric Association to sponsor a scientific, national Gallup poll to gauge what the nation thinks. Either we'll find we have more work to do or we could use the positive response to press Congress into taking further action and enforcing the Metric Conversion Act of 1975 and Executive Order 12770. Personally, I think that since we already speak the global language of business (no further effort needed there), we should make an effort to get in line with the other 95% of the world and complete our metric transition. I thank you for sharing your views and taking the time to correspond. Just an FYI: none of the other TV stations has responded yet although 10TV's operations director said he will forward my original request to the news department. Not sure what that means. - Jason D. Darfus Columbus.OH.US attachment: USMA.jpg On 14 Sep 2005, at 08:47, Nunnally, Bob (NBC Universal, WCMH) wrote: Jason, I really don't believe the interest is there. A poll of my co-workers, neighbors and folks at my supermarket was more than indifferent. They don't want the change. I'm more indifferent myself. I deal with the metric system with our weather maps like Jym. The conversions are a pain, but I don't really dislike it. I have never made the Communist connection you're talking about. Maybe, since our language seems to be the standard, we should be working to get the rest of the world back to our system of measures. Bob Nunnally
[USMA:34454] Re: metricating the U.S. Postal Service
Bulk shippers must fill out this form 7525-V. This may be what the USPS uses when sending bundles of mail. The weight is in kilograms. http://www.census.gov/foreign-trade/regulations/forms/ On 14 Sep 2005, at 09:41, Remek Kocz wrote: Yes, the US customs sticker asks for weight in pounds and ounces. The Post Office fills this thing out. I always felt embarrased sending packages abroad with this particular sticker on them. On 9/14/05, David King [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:The UK's Royal Mail has used metric exclusively for many years, and is about to change the way it charges for items in the post, from just weight to weight and size. The weights will still be in grams, and the sizes will be either cm or mm, all metric still.
[USMA:34415] National Metric Week
Dear WCMH news and weather staff: On this morning's weather forecast, I noticed there was a segment on the AQI (air quality index). This was new to me so I did a quick bit of research to find out how this number is calculated. I was pleased to find out, from EPA.gov, that the formula calculates based on parts per million of certain greenhouse gasses as well as micrograms per cubic meter (µg/m3) of particulate matter of various micrometers (µm) in diameter. I've written to your station in the past requesting to see more usage of international standard (metric) units in weather and general reporting. Jym was kind enough to reply although frankly it wasn't the desired response. This year, the week of Oct 9 - 15 is National Metric Week, organized and celebrated all across the country by the nation's school teachers and their students. Every year it falls on the 10th month and spans the week containing the 10th day. Much cross-discipline class time is devoted to learning about the metric system by integrating lessons of math, science, history, and physical education. Now, I don't know how much news is watched by children, but I think it's a shame that while these lessons are taught in the classroom, there's rarely ever any reinforcement outside the classroom. I've heard reports that estimate the USA has lost hold of as much as one third of the global economy because our workers don't understand, or products aren't made to, international standard units. BMW of North America, located in Spartanburg, South Carolina, had difficulty hiring qualified American workers because many didn't know how to read metric diagrams. I'd like to ask that during National Metric Week your station, and others around Columbus, make an effort to include metric units in your reporting as well as weather forecasts. It can be supplementary just by including ºC on temperature forecast maps and in spoken reports. Rainfall can be stated in liters per square meter (quantitatively the same as millimeters of rain), and barometric pressure can be stated in millibars (already done by The Weather Channel and CNN when talking about hurricanes!). In addition, when reporting on events from outside the USA, leave alone the true as-reported units, without converting to feet, yards, pounds, mph, etc... Following the conclusion of National Metric Week, I'd ask that you continue to report rainfall as x L/m2 or x mm and barometric pressure in millibars instead of inches of mercury. I hope that my suggestions will be acted upon and that, with a brief commentary before each night's weather that week as to why this is being done, people will accept and appreciate the effort you all are making to reinforce the lessons learned in classrooms all across the state and country. cc: WBNS, WSYX - Jason D. Darfus Columbus.OH.US attachment: USMA.jpg
[USMA:33961] Re: I-93 New Hampshire
On 19 Aug 2005, at 16:24, John Woelflein wrote: Kind of like no one using the golden dollar coin because they still insist on printing the dollar bill. I use ONLY the dollar coin (as well as half-dollar and two-dollar bills). Then again, I'm different because I only use the metric system. - Jason D. Darfus Columbus.OH.US attachment: USMA.jpg
[USMA:33964] Re: dollar coin (was I-93 New Hampshire)
Just principle, really. The coin is easier to manage than a paper note. It's easier to reach into a pocket for a coin than take out a wallet and replace it. If there was a $2 coin I'd use it too instead of the note. Increasing the usage of the dollar and half-dollar coins as well as the $2 note is just another personal crusade, paralleled to that for the metric system in the US, to raise awareness and change behavior. Don't take this much further since it's off-topic here. I wonder if there's an association and listserver for this as well... On 20 Aug 2005, at 13:24, Jim Elwell wrote: At 20 08 05, 11:11 AM, Jason Darfus wrote: On 19 Aug 2005, at 16:24, John Woelflein wrote: Kind of like no one using the golden dollar coin because they still insist on printing the dollar bill. I use ONLY the dollar coin (as well as half-dollar and two-dollar bills). Then again, I'm different because I only use the metric system. This is new to me -- what's the objection to paper dollars? Coin or paper -- each is worth a buck and buys a dollar with of something. JIm Jim Elwell, CAMS Electrical Engineer Industrial manufacturing manager Salt Lake City, Utah, USA www.qsicorp.com
[USMA:33881] Re: Smart Car comes to U.S. in 2006
The difference is economy versus consumption - they are inverse one another. Miles per gallon (or kilometers per liter) is economy. Liters per (100) kilometer(s) or gallons per mile is consumption. Don't say that you vehicle gets so many liters per hundred kilometers -- say it consumes or takes so many liters to drive so many kilometers. - Jason D. Darfus Columbus.OH.US attachment: USMA.jpg On 16 Aug 2005, at 13:47, Jim Elwell wrote: At 16 August 2005, 11:16 AM, Paul Trusten, R.Ph. wrote: When I was in Germany last month, the Smart Car (a Daimler Chrysler product) seemed to be all the rage (photo attached). These little mouse cars were everywhere in the city, and were even allowed to park sideways (headlights facing the curb). The car's fuel efficiency was rated at 4.4 L/100 km. By comparison, my 2000 Saturn SL-2 Sedan uses 9.5 L/100 km. I shudder to think of what SUVs and pick-ups use. My new Ford Explorer with a V8 engine gets about 7 - 8 km/L (13 L/100 km) in the city, and 9 - 10 km/L (10 L/100 km) on the freeway. The fuel economy readout can be set to colloquial or metric units, but unfortunately it uses this crazy L/100 km measure in metric. Yes, I know that is common in Europe, but I think using L/100 km is an artificial (and non-SI) way of measuring fuel economy (I could live with L/km). Jim Jim Elwell, CAMS Electrical Engineer Industrial manufacturing manager Salt Lake City, Utah, USA www.qsicorp.com
[USMA:33139] Re: AP using metric. See that wasn't so hard?
What about http://www.washingtontimes.com/world/20050605-121848-7173r.htm Sometimes you'll see stories written like x meters (yards) as if meters and yards are interchangeable. This may be the case here. http://www.boston.com/news/world/middleeast/articles/2005/06/05/us_troops_find_huge_insurgent_bunker_in_iraq/ -Original Message- From: Brian J White [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Jun 6, 2005 9:55 PM To: U.S. Metric Association usma@colostate.edu Subject: [USMA:33138] AP using metric. See that wasn't so hard? http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20050606/us_nm/sport_skateboarding_hawk_dc Check it. Use of meters for ramp sizes and even Tony Hawk's height. Article from the front page of Yahoo right now. See AP? That wasn't so hard was it? Better than the bunker found in Iraq is bigger than 7 football fields. Uhh...
[USMA:32655] Re: Virus still on the prowl
May I suggest a visit to Symantec's free virus scanner. This will only tell you if you're infected; it won't clean your system. http://security.symantec.com/default.asp? productid=symhomelangid=ievenid=sym If you are infected with one of the more prolific bugs (like NetSky32), there's probably a free removal tool at http://securityresponse.symantec.com/avcenter/tools.list.html On 11 Apr 2005, at 13:06, Han Maenen wrote: We are still being stalked by virus mails. I just found a virus mail, Tom Wades' address [EMAIL PROTECTED] was abused by some virus spammer or an infected computer for sending me the Netsky32 virus. I have not opened the attachment. Norton Antivirus 2005 with the latest virus definitions intercepted and destroyed the attachment; I am virus-free. Subject: denied! Text in the body: is that your photo? The suspected attachment with the so-called photo is a ZIP-archive, about 39 KiB. Han
[USMA:32657] Re: Virus still on the prowl
On 11 Apr 2005, at 14:44, Michael-O wrote: Jason Darfus wrote: May I suggest a visit to Symantec's free virus scanner. This will only tell you if you're infected; it won't clean your system. http://security.symantec.com/default.asp? productid=symhomelangid=ievenid=sym your link is broken! Yea, I thought I sent it as rich text but it still works (I tested it). All you need is http://security.symantec.com
[USMA:32622] Re: proposed colloquial names for length units
sarcastic humor There must be some kind of national fetish with feet, because people here in the States are always talking about them. Though people always seem to avoid talking about their hands. Don't they know three hands equals one foot? Personally I think we should rename the inch and call it a toe. Now we have a nice, flowing sequence with which to measure using hands, feet, and toes. I wonder what kind of looks you'd get if someone asks: How tall are you? 5 feet, 2 hands, 2 toes. Oh, and for those who don't know: there are three feet to a (front) yard, two front yards to a back yard, and six back yards to a field. STOP THE INSANITY!! ;-) /sarcastic humor On 6 Apr 2005, at 12:48, Pierre Abbat wrote: 0.1 mm = one hair 1 mm = one needle (pine, not sewing) 1 cm = one nail (finger, not fastener) 1 dm = one hand phma -- li ze te'a ci vu'u ci bi'e te'a mu du li ci su'i ze te'a mu bi'e vu'u ci
[USMA:32537] Re: 3M Canada | 3M ScotchR Duct Tape | Duct Tape Workshop
That's really cool. I wonder if it'll work with U.S. currency. U.S. bills are 155 mm x 67 mm. Can anyone verify the Canadian dimensions? A web page I found gives the dimensions as 152 mm x 70 mm. - Jason D. Darfus Columbus.OH.US inline: USMA.jpg
[USMA:32511] Fwd: Re: CNN uses primarily metric in article
You're right, I remember it now. - Jason D. Darfus Columbus.OH.US inline: USMA.jpg Begin forwarded message: And why did they have to spell out six-meter but then write 20-foot and not twenty-foot, or as it should have been written for consistency: a six-meter (or nineteen-foot, eight inch) shark. I'm not completely certain, but I believe some style manuals specify that numbers ten and under should be spelled out while those larger than ten may be left in their numeric form. Cheers, Walter Meier Portland, OR
[USMA:32381] Re: Everybody, Somebody, Anybody, and Nobody
On 5 Mar 2005, at 18:41, Pat Naughtin wrote: Does this story resonate with anyone in the metrication community? Absolutely: I'm somebody and I'm doing what anybody here is expected to do in promoting metrication. Someday everybody will thank us. - Jason D. Darfus Columbus.OH.US inline: USMA.jpg
[USMA:32315] Re: Civil action (was: New metric legislation introduced)
Every other month? I do those things every time. Well, except for the one about auto fuel. The truth is I even offered to buy a new hanging scale with a dual kg / lb dial for a local coffee house if they'd also price their beans per kilogram and 100 grams. It would have cost me a couple hundred dollars, I'm sure. No take. But yea, I agree that we have to keep pressing until sellers realize there are folks out there who use those foreign units. - Jason D. Darfus Columbus.OH.US inline: USMA.jpgOn Feb 28, 2005, at 15:46, Gavin Young - Renewable Electricity Solutions wrote: The USMA works hard to attract the attention of US metric lovers, but I have an idea of how they can do more. It needs to develope an action plan to get all US metric lovers to take action with their consumer power. If action plans are posted on the USMA website, more US metric lovers will get excited about getting involved with USMA. For example here are some ideas: Encourage metric lovers in the USA to do the following two months from now, and every two months thereafter: 1) When going to a grocery store or deli to buy food by the weight from a store clerk that will weigh the food for you, buy the food by kilogram instead of the pound. If they say their scale can not display in kg, then make them calculate the conversion to lbs. The idea is to get them tired of making the calculations, so that they get a dual scale and begin weighing by the kg when requested. 2) When buying automotive fuel (gasoline, diesel, biodiesel, ethonal, etc.) at fuel stations ask for the amount in liters. If they say their pumps can not display in L, then make them calculate the conversion to L. The idea is to get them tired of making the calculations, so that they get a dual pump and begin dispensing fuel by the L when requested. 3) When buying produce that you weigh yourself, speak to the store manager and ask that they provide at least one scale which weighs in kg and that their produce price signs include the price in $/kg. 4) When ordering shipping boxes for your business specify the size you want in mm or cm, and if they say all of their boxes are in inches only, then make them calculate the conversion to mm or cm. The idea is to get them tired of making the calculations, so that they start stamping their boxes with dual units and start printing their catalogs and price lists in dual units. 5) Do the same for other categories. As the months go buy, more and more people should be joining our coordinated efforts and the businesses will begin to take notice. The idea is for us to use some of the tactics of the environmental groups, but not their civil disobedience actions. We can also encourage each member to hand out metric flyers in their community on a given day of each month and tell them how they can get involved in the action plans. What do you think? - Original Message - From: Bob Price [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: U.S. Metric Association usma@colostate.edu Sent: Saturday, 26 February, 2005 12:59 Subject: [USMA:32289] Re: New metric legislation introduced The legislation is a step in the right direction. It would more clearly define responsiblity for avoiding confusion over units. However, I would like the legislation to go a step farther. There needs to be an intention of phasing out old inch/gallon/pound units. The language is not strong enough in this respect. An agency needs to be set up that would coordinate all government agencies(state and local included) to a transition to the metric system. The metric board of the late 70s failed because Jimmy Carter appointed people who were not metric friendly. The board need to understand the issues and have a vision of an all-metric America. I was wondering if there is a lobbying group out there that will do what the USMA cannot do - lobby congress for stronger metric conversion legislation. That would be a group I would be willing to support financially. If only the USMA were more active in lobbying Congress, but from what I understand, they cannot lobby. I have written letters to senators and congressmen, and while their responses were positive, Congress is still not taking a leading role in metric conversion. Unless they take such a role I don't see much more change for the better. We will continue with more of the same, where we celebrate when we find a new product in metric units. Where road construction goes metric only to switch back again. Jason Darfus wrote: Rep. Ehlers of Michigan got the 109th Congress off to a nice start with H.R. 33 : * SUMMARY AS OF: 1/4/2005--Introduced. Amends the Metric Conversion Act of 1975 to require guidelines on government use of the metric system of measurement to require any Federal agency transaction providing for a person to perform scientific or engineering research with Federal funding to include provisions: (1) clearly identifying the extent to which such system or other systems
[USMA:32290] Re: New metric legislation introduced
Yea, I hear ya.. a new Metric Board that has the power it needs to recommend and enforce change would be a terrific thing. Representative Ehlers, if I'm not mistaken, pressed Sean O'Keefe (NASA) on the agency's use of metric units. Ehlers is very pro-metric so if anyone in Congress would be able to push for a new Metric Board, it's him. I've written to my representative and senators as well regarding FPLA. My representative was the only one of the three that responded. She (Deborah Pryce, Ohio 15th) will be on the lookout for the FPLA amendment and take my thoughts into consideration regarding passage of said amendment. In the meantime, EVERYONE out there on this list should buy the neat looking red, white blue GO METRIC bumper stickers (see my signature) and put one on your car, bike, jacket, posterior, etc. Maybe even telephone poles or any other public billboard. I want to see a GO METRIC sticker on at least one other car in my town by the end of this year. Let's let everyone know they have a choice! - Jason D. Darfus Columbus.OH.US inline: USMA.jpg
[USMA:32291] Re: M-Day page
Saludos, Walter, y bienvenidos :-) It's good to have a public educator/speaker who is pro-metric and a member of our group. We could use more like you. Anyone here thinking about starting a new career as journalist or weather man? As an aside, I wonder if any station manager or chief meteorologist would allow one of their on-air personalities to use only SI. Just don't mention it during the job interview. On Feb 24, 2005, at 12:01, Walter Meier wrote: By the way, allow me to introduce myself. I've been lurking on the list for many months now (years, if you count all the times in the past that I've subscribed), but haven't gotten around to posting anything until now. I've also been a USMA member on and off for many years. I teach a community education Spanish class at the local college, and use the culture and customs portion of the course as a pretext to give my students a primer on metric units. Just my little drop in the bucket... Greetings to all. Walter Meier Portland, Oregon - Jason D. Darfus Columbus.OH.US inline: USMA.jpg
[USMA:32285] New metric legislation introduced
Rep. Ehlers of Michigan got the 109th Congress off to a nice start with H.R. 33 : * SUMMARY AS OF: 1/4/2005--Introduced. Amends the Metric Conversion Act of 1975 to require guidelines on government use of the metric system of measurement to require any Federal agency transaction providing for a person to perform scientific or engineering research with Federal funding to include provisions: (1) clearly identifying the extent to which such system or other systems of measurement will be used under the transaction and requiring such use; and (2) assigning such person the financial responsibility for failure to follow such requirements. * As it related to federal funding, does anyone have any thoughts on the possibility of USMA receiving grants (either of U.S. or other national origin) to further promote SI to the American public? I would think Europe, Canada, Japan, Australia, or China might see some economic benefit to this. Just to brainstorm a little : I'm thinking billboards, TV commercials and the like - along the lines of promoting national pride, scientific and economic competitiveness, international unity. Be Modern, Go Metric. Be progressive, not regressive -- Go Metric. As for FPLA, I did not find anything related to this. Any news on anticipated date of introduction to Congress?
[USMA:32261] Got on Europe Squawk Box
Europe Squawk Box on CNBC Europe had a live poll asking what is the biggest issue dividing the U.S. and Europe. My answer was read on the air! I intended a lighthearted tone and that's how they took it. Hopefully some U.S. business execs were watching. As an added bonus, Ron Insana of CNBC U.S. was the guest host. Here's my email: -- What is the biggest issue dividing the U.S. and Europe today? None of the above! The correct answer : The Metric System Europe needs to crack the whip and make the U.S. fall in line in this respect. - Jason D. Darfus Columbus.OH.US inline: USMA.jpg
[USMA:31804] Re: Metric on Law and Order
That's the way to go, in my opinion. If Hollywood actors were actively involved in routine usage of SI and making it appear glamorous, or European, I think it would really go a long way toward raising awareness. It is my opinion that most people just say feet, inches, miles, etc etc because they don't even THINK to use metric as if it's not even an option... just cattle following the herd. I'm thinking about getting some of the new 'patriotic' GO METRIC bumper stickers. They look cool but I can't decide if a message saying GO METRIC would raise awareness and acceptance or have the opposite effect. To some people it may raise awareness to fight our metric progress. In that case a stealthy approach would be better. What do some of you think? -Original Message- From: Carleton MacDonald [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Jan 3, 2005 7:37 PM To: U.S. Metric Association usma@colostate.edu Subject: [USMA:31803] Metric on Law and Order Last night's new episode of Law and Order: Criminal Intent (one of TV's more intelligent shows) had the lead detective describing the location of the body of the victim. It was found near the Battery. He determined that it had been dumped into the Hudson River around West 8th St. by saying the river was running around four clicks an hour so the body had originated three kilometers north of where it was found. This was said in a totally matter of fact manner. Carleton
[USMA:31760] Re: Justified optimism for 2005!
While flying home New Year's Day on a domestic flight I was reading an American magazine, Technology Review that was refreshingly 100% SI with no conversions given. Even references to distances between U.S. cities were in kilometers only. SI symbols were used correctly.That's good to hear. American international travelers would be a perfect audience with which to use only SI units. For many years I've subscribed to Wired Magazine but recently I've dropped them and switched to MIT's Technology Review because of the fact they are 100% SI. I've written to Wired's editor about this. There has been no response. The captain twice announced temperature in degrees centigrade and wind speed in kilometers per hour. After a long pause, he then said, ...In American that would be . uh . degrees Fahrenheit. He was clearly a native-born American. That's funny... In American that would be... probably because it's true. Maybe we can rename ºF to ºA (degrees American). Does anyone have any ideas on how to get the ball rolling on pressing local and national media (ie The Weather Channel) to begin conversion? There's really no national board or organization that could compel a change. Are they waiting for word from a higher authority? Do they want a petition with 100 000+ names on it? I'm sure news organizations would love to not have to convert anymore for the American audience but they (most) don't seem to be making any effort to familiarize Americans with THE standard measurement system. Side note: Dr. Sanjay Gupta of CNN just reported from Sri Lanka and was talking about the amount of water present. He noted that on a train, a half kilometer inland, it crested 3-4 meters and to put that in perspective, he said a cubic meter of water weighs a ton. Way to go Sanjay!
[USMA:31606] Re: Do you speak metric at ground level?
I got my oral digital thermometer at CVS/pharmacy or Wal-Greens. They come pre-programmed for ºF, of course, but the documentation tells you how to change to ºC. Once you do that, throw away the instructions! On Dec 7, 2004, at 13:09, [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I can't even find a Celsius basal oral thermometer here; I'm thinking I'll have to order it, possibly internationally to get it! If anyone could tell me where I can order a Celsius basal thermometer I'd appreciate it!
[USMA:31590] Re: Do you speak metric at ground level?
First of all, I sincerely apologize to everyone for getting off-topic. It won't happen again. Paul, I agree with you. There is, for whatever reason, a kind of 'stygma' attached to talking metric in this country. I'm not quite sure why but it could have something to do with the hype and broken promises of the 1970s. Since I was born in '75, I didn't experience the failed attempt at conversion. Just this year I've found the courage to speak the language but being the dedicated supporter I am, I can imagine it wouldn't be easy for the average citizen to gather the courage (or even the desire) to break tradition. To do so, many times, invites a snicker or even a hostile anti-metric comment. It takes courage to not back down and make the conversion. In those instances I'll try to explain the quantity in relative terms, and in context, just as was printed in the latest edition of the newsletter. -Original Message- From: Paul Trusten [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Dec 6, 2004 11:26 AM To: U.S. Metric Association [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: [USMA:31568] Do you speak metric at ground level? One of the problems with popularizing the metric system in the United States is that it takes courage to speak the language. Of late, I have been pushing myself to quote the ambient temperature to people in Celsius only, and also to report geographic distances in kilometers only. Even among friends who know of my mission, this is difficult, but it becomes even more daunting when I am out in the madding crowd. This problem can be viewed as either a recipe for conflict or an opportunity for improvement. In any case, I'm driving 80 km today, from Orlando to New Smyrna Beach, Florida, and I plan to use metric statements as an opportunities to promote metric, as it were, at ground level grin. Paul Trusten, R.Ph. Editor, Metric Today 3609 Caldera Blvd., Apt. 122 Midland TX 79707-2872 USA
[USMA:31564] Re: when U.S. Vice President Dick Cheney said The American way of life is not negotiable he meant using English measurements as well as.......
Here's what happened! ;-) http://www.world-cnn.com/2004/WORLD/americas/11/30/bush.arrest/index.html -Original Message- From: Euric [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Dec 5, 2004 12:13 AM To: U.S. Metric Association [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: [USMA:31562] Re: when U.S. Vice President Dick Cheney said The American way of life is not negotiable he meant using English measurements as well as... If anybody here thinks this is a joke, well... just watch what happened in Canada during Bush's visit!... ;-) Cheers, Marcus What happened? Tell me more! Euric PS. check this out: http://www.dailykos.com/story/2004/11/15/152148/15
[USMA:31504] Re: Google conversions online
In addition, you can ask for a direct unit-to-unit conversion such as: 1 fl. oz. in ml 72 F in C 10 cu yards in cu meters 1500 sq ft in sq m etc.. On Nov 23, 2004, at 17:28, David King wrote: Ever need to know how long a parsec is? Or a mile? Or a yard? Or an astronomical unit? Just go to www.google.com and enter the name of the length concerned, press Enter, and you get the results in metres and kilometres as appropriate. -- David King ** Get Fast Broadband from £14.99 ** http://tinyurl.com/5y7mf
[USMA:31486] Re: Greenspan (but not Congress!) may help America metricate
One might hope, but from the news that came out Friday it seems the powers that be can't see beyond profits to be made in the near term by cutting huge unnecessary costs... http://biz.yahoo.com/prnews/041119/dcf012_1.html On Nov 19, 2004, at 22:08, Euric wrote: Well anyway, when the dollar crashes (and it will, it is only a matter of time), can we hope that a bankrupt nation will wake up and realise that only through metrication can this nation prosper again?
[USMA:31473] Re: CSI:Miami (New York)
I've noticed mixed usage. Just when I get excited when they use SI in the situations you've described, they'll use feet and inches when they measure how far a dead body was found out in front of a bus or something similar. Haven't seen the new show Medical Investigation. On Nov 16, 2004, at 14:14, Phil Chernack wrote: I have been watching CSI: Miami and CSI: New York with some regularity now and have noticed the use of SI in both. This past Monday, one of the investigators when talking to a suspect stated that the tire iron used in the murder made a mark that was 17 mm as opposed to 19 mm from another tire iron. In CSI: New York, when the coroner weighed a body, she stated the mass in kg subtracting for the gurney. All this was without any verbal conversion (Its 5 cm, thats about 2 inches). Seems like a step in the right direction. If tv writers assume the viewing public can understand SI, it seems that eventually others will follow suit. I have not watched CSI: Crime Scene Investigation (the original series that takes place in Vegas). Also, the show Medical Investigation also makes extensive use of SI which makes sense as it is a medical show. Anybody else notice a trend? Phil
[USMA:31418] Re: Fw: Metric system (ot) Was: RE: [ISO8601] ISO 8601 -- 1000
It seems to me this guy is just expressing his opinions about SI and trying to pass them off as fact. He's undoubtedly more familiar with FFU. Isn't it strange the only SI unit with which he's comfortable is the second -- a unit he has used his whole life. He probably never bothered to learn and use a new language because English is just more comfortable and therefore any foreign language is just more cumbersome. On Nov 7, 2004, at 07:25, Han Maenen wrote: From the ISO 8601 list. - Original Message - From: BAM [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: [EMAIL PROTECTED]; bam [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Friday, 2004-11-05 17:37 Subject: Re: Metric system (ot) Was: RE: [ISO8601] ISO 8601 -- 1000 There are other reasons, besides lethargy or perversity, why SI has not quite caught on everywhere! One major reason for the failure of SI to become universal is that its fundamental units are ill-chosen and have POOR ERGONOMICS for homo sapiens, whereas the basic units of the English system are comfortable and suitable for the biological dimensions of our species (largely because those units evolved from usage, wherein competing alternatives faded out when found to be inferior.) Regardless of the silly ratios between them (which Thomas Jefferson tried to reconcile, with his own proposals for a decimally-based English system), the approximate sizes of the English units are far superior to those of SI. Consider: 1. The gram is too doggone small! Most human usage requires double-digit or triple-digit numbers of them to be at all useful or meaningful in everyday human activity. Kilogram, might have been OK as the basic unit for humans (tho I think it is a bit too hefty), but that is not a basic unit and requires a prefix as well as a number. By contrast, note that - despite their rather inconvenient ratios ounces and pounds are very comfortable in human terms for everyday quantities (such as store purchases or food preparation), while and tons provide a reasonable unit for unusally-large masses we commonly encounter. Likewise, feet and inches (again, despite their unfortunate, arbitrary ratios) allow us to easily describe most things we see and handle daily, using small, whole numbers (with miles available to approximate distances to be travelled or things beyond the horizon). 2. Basing the meter on one ten-millionth of the estimated distance from pole to equator may have been very satisfying, intellectually, but the result is a fundamental unit that is awkwardly large - especially when united by the density of water to a mass unit that is ridiculously tiny. 3. The density of water, upon which SI is based, requires an unimaginably-large power of ten when expressed in fundamental units of grams per meter cubed (even when the value begins wi tha1. 4. Seconds, the fundamental time unit, is not bad at all. However, common time reconning, which is unlikely to change (and which the promoters of SI dare not propose), employs non-decimal multiples of the second, such as 60 and 24. 5. Derived units, such as those for speed, also suffer from the non-ergonomic choices of fundamental units. Consider velocity, for example. Speed limit signs are in Km/h and automobile speedometers report the number of thousands of meters that would be travelled with no acceleration for the next 3,600 seconds! (Meters per second would make far more sense, in my opinion, but that's not the issue, here.) 6. The base ten, itself, is part of the problem. Unless the Duodecimal Society succeeds in convincing the public (and the legislators) that a radix divisible by 2, 3, and 4 is preferable to one divisible by 2 and 5, or unless those in the computer industr spread the word about the benefits of octal or hex, we are probably stuck with using the number of our fingers for our place-value notation. That alone does not make the powers of ten particularly useful, comfortable, or natural - especially when large powers are required. So much for my tirade regarding SI, which is not at all in opposition to having a rational, decimally-based system. It is sad that the attempt was flawed by poor (and untested) fundamental unit choices. Too bad that this failure (or, at least, partial failure) will serve to prevent universal adoption of such a system for the for the forseeable future. Itruly wish Thomas Jefferson had been as successful in his attempt to redefine the inch as one-tenth of the typical length of a shoe (and other simlar ratios, involving the then-very-approximate English units), as he was in his spectacularly-successful innovation of decimal currency (which even the Brits adopted, a couple of centuries after our revolution). Sorry that, after all this, I have some sort of brilliant solution to propose (other than reposting speed-limit signs in meters-per secod, which at least gives some clue about stopping distance!), but I do not expect that co-existence of the two systems (or three systems, if one includes the MKS vs. cgs
[USMA:31069] RE: km/h on speedometers
All the current Cadillacs have MPH-only speedometers. Go check out the interior photos at http://www.cadillac.com On Sep 10, 2004, at 13:44, Phil Chernack wrote: However, I have not seen a speedometer on any car manufactured after 1977 for use in the U.S. that did not include both. Phil -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Terry Simpson Sent: Friday, September 10, 2004 1:36 PM To: U.S. Metric Association Subject: [USMA:31064] km/h on speedometers Do cars in the U.S.A. have to have km/h on them by law? Is it Federal or State law? What date did it become mandatory? Is the actual law available online?
[USMA:31070] RE: km/h on speedometers
Correction - all the current Cadillac CARS have MPH-only speedos. This doesn't seem to be the case with the SUVs. All the current Cadillacs have MPH-only speedometers. Go check out the interior photos at http://www.cadillac.com On Sep 10, 2004, at 13:44, Phil Chernack wrote: However, I have not seen a speedometer on any car manufactured after 1977 for use in the U.S. that did not include both. Phil -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Terry Simpson Sent: Friday, September 10, 2004 1:36 PM To: U.S. Metric Association Subject: [USMA:31064] km/h on speedometers Do cars in the U.S.A. have to have km/h on them by law? Is it Federal or State law? What date did it become mandatory? Is the actual law available online?
[USMA:31048] Fwd: Ohio metric signage
Here's ODOT's reply to my previous email. I'm relieved to hear our signing engineer is not anti-metric and furthermore ODOT decided when the time to change comes, it will be a complete switch with no dual-unit signs. Begin forwarded message: From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Date: September 7, 2004 13:28:30 EDT To: Jason Darfus [EMAIL PROTECTED]> Subject: Re: Metric signage Mr. Darfus - We had a mandate from congress in 1988 to develop a plan to convert our operations to metric, which would include revising the units on highway signs. We developed plans on how to best achieve the conversion of the highway signs. It was decided that this should be accomplished by replacing the english unit signs with metric signs, without going to a dual unit system. In the mid-90s, congress removed the mandate to go metric. On September 29, 1998, ODOT issued an official policy statement to abandon further metrication efforts and revert to the use of english units. The United States made the metric system of measurements legal in 1866. In 1893, the metric system was adopted as the standard in the United States, and the english units were officially defined in terms of the metric system. There have been several efforts to complete the conversion to metrics, but none have been completely successful in eliminating the english units. As far as highway signage, we have metric designs ready, and could begin producing and installing them without too much trouble. However, there would need to be an administrative decision made before we could begin putting up metric signs. Personally, I agree with you that there would be distinct benefits to our country by completing the metric conversion. It does not appear at this time that there is much interest in doing this, though. Thank you for your comments and your interest in highway signage. Jim Roth, P. E. Signing Engineer (614) 752-0438 x-tad-smallerJason Darfus [EMAIL PROTECTED]>/x-tad-smallerx-tad-smaller09/03/2004 02:52 PM/x-tad-smallerx-tad-smaller /x-tad-smallerx-tad-smaller To: [EMAIL PROTECTED], [EMAIL PROTECTED]/x-tad-smallerx-tad-smaller cc: /x-tad-smallerx-tad-smaller Subject: Metric signage/x-tad-smallerx-tad-smallerMr. James M. Roth,/x-tad-smaller x-tad-smaller Several months ago I wrote a letter to Gordon Proctor voicing my /x-tad-smaller x-tad-smaller support of the International System of Units (a.k.a. metric system) and/x-tad-smaller x-tad-smaller I asked him about the possibility of continuing its use at ODOT, /x-tad-smaller x-tad-smaller including the posting of metric highway signs. The only dual-unit sign /x-tad-smaller x-tad-smaller I have ever seen in Ohio is that which is posted on I-71 between /x-tad-smaller x-tad-smaller Columbus and Cleveland. Mr. Proctor informed me that while it would /x-tad-smaller x-tad-smaller quite literally take an act of Congress to allow for metric speed limit/x-tad-smaller x-tad-smaller signs, he said there is some discretion that can be afforded to/x-tad-smaller x-tad-smaller distance signs (as evidenced by that on I-71)./x-tad-smaller x-tad-smaller Mr. Proctor referred me to you, as the signing engineer, with any /x-tad-smaller x-tad-smaller further questions. My question to you, sir, is what are your /x-tad-smaller x-tad-smaller inclinations toward reintroducing metric signage throughout Ohio? /x-tad-smaller x-tad-smaller Personally, I don't advocate dual-units because, first of all, most /x-tad-smaller x-tad-smaller cars don't have odometers that measure in kilometers. This would/x-tad-smaller x-tad-smaller primarily be for the benefit of Canadians who have crossed the border /x-tad-smaller x-tad-smaller in their own cars and for those of us with digital odometers who have /x-tad-smaller x-tad-smaller set them to kilometers. Secondly, given both units on a sign, most /x-tad-smaller x-tad-smaller people will simply ignore the metric units. My proposal is to replace /x-tad-smaller x-tad-smaller all the small distance signs that indicate the approach to an /x-tad-smaller x-tad-smaller intersection. Example: on my way to work over by the Columbus airport, /x-tad-smaller x-tad-smaller I exit from I-670 to Steltzer road. Before I reach that intersection,/x-tad-smaller x-tad-smaller there is a sign indicating 1500 feet to the intersection. What would/x-tad-smaller x-tad-smaller be your position in changing these types of signs to say, in this /x-tad-smaller x-tad-smaller instance, 450 meters or 450 m? No dual units would be given. This /x-tad-smaller x-tad-smaller could be accomplished (more quickly and economically than replacement)/x-tad-smaller x-tad-smaller by using adhesive overlays as the Canadians did in their sign /x-tad-smaller x-tad-smaller metrication campaign./x-tad-smaller x-tad-smaller I look forward to hearing your comments and maybe we can start an /x-tad-smaller x-tad-smaller ongoing
[USMA:31025] Re: More PG coupons from today's paper
This is a smart way to get consumers to pay attention to the metric quantities on packaging. If you haven't already done so, take a couple minutes to write to PG with some positive reinforcement. http://pg.custhelp.com/cgi-bin/pg.cfg/php/enduser/ask.php On Sep 5, 2004, at 09:59, John Woelflein wrote: Here are a couple more. I particularly like the Pringles one, that uses grams. John Woelflein Do you Yahoo!? New and Improved Yahoo! Mail - 100MB free storage!scan0001.jpgscan0002.jpg
[USMA:30990] Re: Things YOU Can Do to Promote Metrication
Excellent list! Everyone, print this out and stick it to your bathroom mirror so you'll see it every morning! You may have to laminate if you take really hot showers ;-) On Sep 3, 2004, at 13:25, Jim Elwell wrote: Things YOU Can Do to Promote Metrication in the USA.pdf
[USMA:30992] Fwd: Metric signage
Today I sent the following message to Ohio DOT. I'll forward the response whatever it may be. Begin forwarded message: From: Jason Darfus [EMAIL PROTECTED]> Date: September 3, 2004 14:52:06 EDT To: [EMAIL PROTECTED], [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Metric signage Mr. James M. Roth, Several months ago I wrote a letter to Gordon Proctor voicing my support of the International System of Units (a.k.a. metric system) and I asked him about the possibility of continuing its use at ODOT, including the posting of metric highway signs. The only dual-unit sign I have ever seen in Ohio is that which is posted on I-71 between Columbus and Cleveland. Mr. Proctor informed me that while it would quite literally take an act of Congress to allow for metric speed limit signs, he said there is some discretion that can be afforded to distance signs (as evidenced by that on I-71). Mr. Proctor referred me to you, as the signing engineer, with any further questions. My question to you, sir, is what are your inclinations toward reintroducing metric signage throughout Ohio? Personally, I don't advocate dual-units because, first of all, most cars don't have odometers that measure in kilometers. This would primarily be for the benefit of Canadians who have crossed the border in their own cars and for those of us with digital odometers who have set them to kilometers. Secondly, given both units on a sign, most people will simply ignore the metric units. My proposal is to replace all the small distance signs that indicate the approach to an intersection. Example: on my way to work over by the Columbus airport, I exit from I-670 to Steltzer road. Before I reach that intersection, there is a sign indicating 1500 feet to the intersection. What would be your position in changing these types of signs to say, in this instance, 450 meters or 450 m? No dual units would be given. This could be accomplished (more quickly and economically than replacement) by using adhesive overlays as the Canadians did in their sign metrication campaign. I look forward to hearing your comments and maybe we can start an ongoing dialog on this matter. Hopefully this is something that Ohio can do to help the flagging progress toward metrication - an affair that has put the entire world ahead of the United States. Jason D. Darfus Columbus, OH
[USMA:30974] Re: America's progress
I resent your implication that all I do is complain. Personal attacks certainly don't do anything to further our cause. To answer your question, I do what any private citizen can do without connections to public policy makers: I write letters to media, use SI in my job, and promote SI with my friends, family, any with anybody else willing to listen. Finally, I'm also a dues-paying member of USMA. On Sep 2, 2004, at 13:14, Jim Elwell wrote: What are YOU doing to promote metrication, aside from complaining about it? Jim Jim Elwell, CAMS Electrical Engineer Industrial manufacturing manager Salt Lake City, Utah, USA www.qsicorp.com
[USMA:30976] Fwd: Re: America's progress
Forgot to mention that I also have written to my representatives in Congress voicing my support, and asking for their support, of the upcoming FPLA amendment proposal. If you have further suggestions, please voice them so that we can all be more effective. On Sep 2, 2004, at 13:14, Jim Elwell wrote: What are YOU doing to promote metrication, aside from complaining about it? Jim Jim Elwell, CAMS Electrical Engineer Industrial manufacturing manager Salt Lake City, Utah, USA www.qsicorp.com
[USMA:30755] RE: The Container Store
During the summer break before my senior year in college (1997-1998), I interned at Rubbermaid in Wooster, Ohio. My job was to develop their online web catalog along with a few other interns. I remember a lot of the products had imperial-only attributes. I wasn't hard-core metric then but still when I was writing product pages, I took it upon myself to make the conversions and even place the metric specs in front of the customary ones. I was a physics major so all my work was done in SI units. Maybe that's why it felt natural back then to prefer the SI over customary. I like to think that as Rubbermaid's web site has evolved since then, the SI units have stuck as subsequent web developers integrate them into new product descriptions. Jason D. On Aug 14, 2004, at 11:16, Phil Chernack wrote: Go visit www.rubbermaid.com. Their measurements are all over the place!
[USMA:30759] RE: The Container Store
I just did the conversion math and observed sig-figs ;-) Probably not what you wanted to hear but if I was there today doing the same thing, I'd try really hard to make it rounded metric. My last name is German; I'm of German, Dutch, and Irish descent (or, uh... American). From what I understand, the literal translation is deer foot? At one point it was in fact spelled Darfuss. Yea, it sounds similar to Dreifuss but there's no relation that I know. Jason D. On Aug 14, 2004, at 12:43, Euric wrote: When you made the conversions, did you convert, say, 1 quart to 1 L or to 946 mL? If I am not mistaken, those quart containers actually hold a litre. I have a personal question concerning your last name. For some reason when I saw it in the header I thought of Dreyfuss and the of Richard the movie actor. The name Dreyfuss is a corruption of the German words drei fuss, which means three feet in English. I would assume it is a reference to a measurement but the reason for it I don't know. Is your name also related to drei fuss and if so maybe you could tell us how it originated. Euric - Original Message - From: Jason Darfus [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: U.S. Metric Association [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Saturday, 2004-08-14 12:12 Subject: [USMA:30755] RE: The Container Store During the summer break before my senior year in college (1997-1998), I interned at Rubbermaid in Wooster, Ohio. My job was to develop their online web catalog along with a few other interns. I remember a lot of the products had imperial-only attributes. I wasn't hard-core metric then but still when I was writing product pages, I took it upon myself to make the conversions and even place the metric specs in front of the customary ones. I was a physics major so all my work was done in SI units. Maybe that's why it felt natural back then to prefer the SI over customary. I like to think that as Rubbermaid's web site has evolved since then, the SI units have stuck as subsequent web developers integrate them into new product descriptions. Jason D. On Aug 14, 2004, at 11:16, Phil Chernack wrote: Go visit www.rubbermaid.com. Their measurements are all over the place!
[USMA:30371] Re: Telegraph UK
Hi, Mr. Johnston. Since you ask, I'm 175 cm tall. Do you really state your own height in feet and inches out to the ten-thousandths decimal place? Why convert to metric, you ask? Would you like to return to the days or yore when each county or shire had its own system of measurement or would you prefer there be one unified, ratified STANDARD so that trade and commerce can be carried on smoothly? Realize this: you in the U.K. and we in the U.S. are integral parts of the new WORLD ECONOMY. In this, the 21st century, there are no longer any natural boundaries to trade - only artificial ones erected by protectionist governments. The WORLD has decided to STANDARDIZE on the SI (hence the name of International System of units). By insisting on the continued usage of our customary and your imperial units, we are only perpetuating chaos where none is warranted. Idioms such as Give them an inch and they'll take a mile won't change, however I can come up with a better analogue : Give them a micron and they'll take a meter. -- It is safe to say that after the metric system has been adopted by the U.S. and our people have become accustomed to its use we would no more dream of going back to the present system of weights and measures than we would think of carrying on the processes of arithmetic through the medium of the old Roman letters in place of the Arabic numerals we now employ. Alexander Graham Bell, 1906
[USMA:30374] Bolthouse Farms o.j.
Found a new (metric-sized) product at the grocery store. Bolthouse Farms
( http://www.bolthouse.com/juice_main.html ) has a line of premium juices
that come in two rounded metric sizes of 1 L and 450 mL. The orange juice is
really good, btw. The label says each 1 L bottle of juice contains the
equivalent of a decen oranges. Decen {DEH-sin} is my new word for a metric
dozen (ten versus twelve).
Distribution seems to be widespread as they sell their products at Meijer and
Kroger among other locations.
JDD
[USMA:30247] Re: Soda Cans
SAM's Club / Wal-Mart has small bottles of soda or juice that are marketed to kids. The bottles are labeled as 250 mL. I wish there was someone from Ohio DOT on this mailing list! -Original Message- From: Howard Ressel [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Jun 28, 2004 8:29 AM To: U.S. Metric Association [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: [USMA:30246] Soda Cans Picked up a free can of Red Bull Energy Drink this weekend. The package it in a cute small can that was a hard metric 250 mm size. Too bad we couldn't get the soda industry to adopt that model. Howard Ressel Project Design Engineer, Region 4 (585) 272-3372
[USMA:30180] Re: SpaceShipOne
Well, yea.. it's the A.P. and of course they use American Proprietary (AP) units, too! Any news story that's a retransmission of an AP-sourced story will usually only have AP units. I try to look for CNN, NBC or internationally-based stories as they'll usually have both units (or strictly SI). I was watching coverage on CNN and the ship designer, Burt Rutan, always talked about the 100 km altitude they were shooting for. jdd -Original Message- From: Nat Hager III [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Jun 21, 2004 2:27 PM To: U.S. Metric Association [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: [USMA:30179] SpaceShipOne This 62 miles business certainly gets tiring http://apnews.myway.com/article/20040621/D83BG9CO2.html Nat
[USMA:30077] Shooting for the Sky
The response from the journalist who reported on this story: Hmm.. so it looks like the students did in fact record their results in feet... *sigh* -Forwarded Message- From: Pemberton-Butler, Lisa Sent: Jun 7, 2004 1:58 PM To: Jason Darfus [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: RE: Shooting for the Sky Hi Jason, They used altimeters (sp?), but then converted the measurements back to feet, as part of the project. Thanks for your comments. It was a fun event to watch. Lisa -Original Message- From: Jason Darfus Sent: Monday, June 07, 2004 8:12 AM To: Pemberton-Butler, Lisa Subject:Re: Shooting for the Sky Dear Ms. Pemberton, I found your article titled Shooting for the Sky through a Google News search with the term metric system. It was good to read that the 8th grade students are learning to use SI (International System of units) in their project, however your reporting of the altitudes reached in units of feet is of concern. Did the students determine the altitudes in feet or did you make the conversion for the story you reported? I sincerely hope the students actually measured attained altitudes in meters and not feet otherwise it's self-defeating. I really wish reporters all across the country would begin using SI terms in their stories so as to familiarize the general public with their usage. I doubt there will be a directive from the Federal Government demanding people switch to exclusive use of SI so it's up to the individuals to take it upon themselves and decide to start the conversion at the grass-roots level. Until folks can overcome the inertia and initial embarrassment of talking SI in everyday life, conversion will continue to take 'forever'. 81.4 m is pretty impressive for a pop bottle rocket :-) Sincerely Jason Darfus Columbus, OH
[USMA:30047] Horse racing
Did anyone here in the U.S. (or elsewhere) watch the Belmont Stakes to see if Smarty Jones could cinch the Triple Crown? I've never watched horse racing before but I thought it would be interesting just this once. Anyway, I found myself laughing out loud but at the same time wanting to yell at the sports casters. Horse racing must be the last bastion of practice for 100% pure imperial measurement. So, the track is 6 furlongs and that horse is 17 hands tall? Hmmm... come again? What the heck does that mean? Under what circumstances does one decide to measure using their hands instead of their feet? They still gave the horse's weight in pounds so I'm surprised they didn't use stones. I'm sure it's just tradition that these measurements are still used but it just struck me as funny because I've never heard anyone describe something using 'hands' and 'furlongs'. jdd
[USMA:30035] Re: Dual meter/inch-foot measuring tape
I bought a few 7.5-meter metric-only metal measuring tapes from an online store and sure it said 7.5 m right on the sticker but in fine print at the bottom it says 1 wide... aaarrgh!! hehe. The guys at work thought it was HILARIOUS because I'm Mr. Metric to them. jdd On Monday 31 May 2004 21:08, Ezra Steinberg wrote: Was in the local Hi-School [sic] pharamcy and saw a measuring tape listed as 8 m/26 ft on the sticker pased on the front. When I pulled out the tape, the inches were marked on the top and the centimeters on the bottom. Still, it was a dual-use measuring tape and at least the sticker (if not the actual tape) listed the SI first. (The measuring tape was made in Taiwan.) Seems like one more small step in the right direction ...
[USMA:29897] Re: State departments of transportation
According to a letter I received from Gordon Proctor, director of the Ohio Dept. of Transportation, Ohio is unfortunately one of those states that has issued official policy to revert back to imperial measures. The reason he gave was because it's consistent with what other states are doing since the Transportation Equity Act of 1998 eliminated the Federal requirement to use SI. Mr. Proctor did however say that what's needed is a coordinated national effort : Once this commitment is established at the national level, ODOT is prepared to move forward with continued metrication efforts. jdd On Friday 21 May 2004 13:35, john mercer wrote: A lot of state department of transportations have gone back to imperial measurements. Does anyone think that any of them that have gone back to imperial will ever go back to metric? I think it was a real blow to the metric system when these departments went back. I think about a month or so back there was a posting on this list about New York looking at the possibility of going back to imperial has anyone heard any more about it. What about government buildings are they built in imperial or metric? Thanks John Mercer.
[USMA:29736] Re: Metric trip planner North America
For trips in the U.S. only, you can use Expedia (http://www.expedia.com) and select kilometers for your units. For U.S. or Canada, Yahoo Maps/Canada (http://ca.maps.yahoo.com) will display kilometers. JDD -Original Message- From: Carsten Guthardt-Schulz [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: May 10, 2004 6:07 PM To: U.S. Metric Association [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: [USMA:29734] Metric trip planner North America Hi all, Does anybody know a metric trip planner for North Americas? I mean these internet sites like mapquest or yahoo that give you driving directions, distance, time, maps etc. They are all in miles! It's extremely annoying for us Canadians... Rgds, Guti
[USMA:29348] Re: Metrication and Congress
I'd like to know the same thing. News coming from USMA, it seems, has been stagnant recently. With the E.U. imposing their metric-only labeling law in 2010 I expect there would be some movement on the FPLA in Congress in order to allow lead-time for consumers and product manufacturers to change labels. On a broader scale, I'm sure we'd all like to see some deadlines laid down for metrication beyond just the FPLA. JDD On Monday 29 March 2004 10:05, Phil Chernack wrote: Does anyone out there know if a survey has been done to gauge individual members of Congress in regard to their positions on finishing the job of metrication. It seems that the USMA might consider undertaking such a survey and generating some publicity around it. Phil
[USMA:29254] Re: Australian labelling
What I find really interesting is that Subway 6-inch is trademarked, after all it's really not a 6-inch sub -- in a metric country it's actually 15 cm, right? So, Brent, what does McDonalds call their quarter-pounder with cheese, if there is such a thing in Australia? I suspect it's the same name, after all it's just a name and doesn't necessarily describe any physical attribute of the product (pre-cooked weight and all). rant It's irritating when you read comments from anti-metricationists who worry over stuff like so you mean we'll have to call it the 0.11 kilogrammer with cheese? or give em a meter and they'll take a kilometer or he won't budge 2.54 centimeters. NO! The colloquialisms only came about because they're cute or easy to remember and they are simply a product of the times in which they were created. They won't change just because a country or industry changes units of measurement. /rant jd -Original Message- From: Brent AU [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Mar 20, 2004 8:16 PM To: U.S. Metric Association [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: [USMA:29252] Re: Australian labelling You may be interested in looking at this Australian Subway (TM) Napkin, which also provides the energy value in kJ. http://users.tpg.com.au/adslw05b/subway.aus.napkin.pdf - Original Message - From: Chris KEENAN [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: U.S. Metric Association [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Tuesday, March 02, 2004 6:24 AM Subject: [USMA:29043] Australian labelling Someone at work has just returned from Australia, and brought back some biscuits. The brand was Arnotts, and I was surprised to see not a sign of non-metric anywhere - even the energy values were in kJ only. -- Chris KEENAN UK Metric Assoc: www.metric.org.uk
[USMA:29215] RE: Sedna - planetoid
Actually that was the U.S. edition. What you saw at the top of the page is the link to the International version. Here are the two versions: U.S. http://www.cnn.com/2004/TECH/space/03/14/planet.discovery/index.html International http://edition.cnn.com/2004/TECH/space/03/15/distant.object/index.html Notice how the U.S. version has ONLY SI units and the International version has BOTH! Sheesh.. come on, Brits, get with the program! hehe ;-) jd -Original Message- From: Bill Potts [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Mar 15, 2004 12:06 PM To: U.S. Metric Association [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: [USMA:29212] RE: Sedna - planetoid Note that, in CNN's case, that's the International Edition.
[USMA:29146] Re: national weather service
On Tuesday 09 March 2004 11:55, john mercer wrote: Hello when the national weather service gives temperatures in degrees c and this information goes to local radio stations and T V stations where does it get converted to degrees f? Does anybody think that American radio and television will ever give the temperature in degrees c? Or is that just wishful thinking. I, like any other good proponent of SI, have written to my local NBC meterorologist (as well as the station managers). Basically he said that this experiment with °C was tried 30 years ago and because it wasn't well recepted by the public, it has been tabled indefinitely. He did say, however, that ALL of their models and maps are in °C! So, to answer your question, it's your local meteorologists who are doing the conversions - otherwise there would be riots in the streets if metric was ever used again on TV (my words, not his). It's telling as to what kind of public perception is held by the media. If the media took the time to educate the public, it would be easier for them by not having to always convert weather reports and international news. Who knows, it may even raise the IQ of their viewers instead of the other way around. jd
[USMA:29147] Re: U-235
On Tuesday 09 March 2004 09:20, Harry Wyeth wrote: Drives you nuts! (see small attachment re Iraq's weapons program from the AP) http://apnews.myway.com//article/20040309/D816SR080.html HARRY WYETH My obligatory flame letter to the AP: --- quoted the story here Question 1 -- where did this 2.2 pounds and at least 22 pounds come from? Did Noman Saad Eddin al-Noaimi REALLY SAY 2.2 pounds and 22 pounds because he knew he was talking to an American journalist and, by extension, the American public who couldn't possibly know anything about the METRIC SYSTEM and therefore wouldn't know what a KILOGRAM and TEN KILOGRAMS are??? I wonder if it was Norman or the Associated Press... Question 2 -- what is the AP's policy in regards to usage of the metric system? Is it that the metric system should NEVER be used when reporting to the American public because we're too stupid and backward, so therefore conversion is required? Give us some credit and maybe even help EDUCATE us rather than patronize us. I think a better policy would be to LEAVE IT ALONE (the metric units) when reporting FROM OUTSIDE the U.S. and use whatever units are observed by / reported to the A.P. when reporting from INSIDE the U.S. It is my belief that whenever a news organization makes an effort to not report in metric units, when it's so obvious the original story IS, then that organization doesn't WANT to use or doesn't LIKE the metric system and would rather stifle the conversion to the S.I. of the American people. What say you? Jason Darfus Columbus, OH
[USMA:29085] Re: new clothing size standards
Haven't heard anything about it. Is this supposed to happen in the U.S. or Europe? My parents just got back from Las Vegas and my dad said he saw conversion charts above the clothing racks at some places they shopped. I thought maybe that was for foreigners to figure out their size in FFU. jd On Sunday 07 March 2004 11:37, Chimpsarecute wrote: The clothing standard falls under the European Standard EN340. On Sunday 07 March 2004 11:04, Chimpsarecute wrote: Has anyone heard anything more on the new sizing standards for clothing that goes into effect this year? Is anyone preparing for it? Or is this a plan that is being postponed and will never go into effect? Euric
[USMA:28880] 2004 Olympics
The Summer Olympic Games is coming up this year. I don't remember whether or not NBC, during the 2000 games, converted all the (metric) sports into imperial for the U.S. audience but I assume they did. Has everyone on this list sent a POLITE email to [EMAIL PROTECTED] asking them NOT to convert the results to English units this year? I'm pretty sure that track field and swimming are kept as 100-meter, 200-meter, etc. What about high jump, long jump, javelin, etc? Will they still be reported in feet/inches AGAIN this year? I think that all the networks, as a matter of policy, should report the news using the units of the country from where they are reporting. If they are reporting from inside the U.S., then use Imperial. If they're reporting from overseas, USE METRIC! There has to be some effort put forth by the media on this. There's not a magic wand, governmental or otherwise, that will make the U.S. public all of a sudden begin to think and speak metric. There has to be some initiative and steps taken. On a positive note, I've noticed that CNN reporters from Iraq, Israel, and other places are sometimes using both units! One reporter had a foreign accent but I heard another American reporter also use SI units. We need to show the networks there is a demand out there to move toward metric reporting. jd
[USMA:28884] Re: 2004 Olympics
So is there a way to search this message group? If so I'd be happy to use it rather than sounding like a fool by posting what's already been discussed. A forum-type web site may be a better solution for us on this email list. jd -Original Message- From: Bill Hooper [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Feb 23, 2004 9:18 PM To: U.S. Metric Association [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: [USMA:28882] Re: 2004 Olympics Following up on Jason's suggestion that we (once again) urge TV sports broadcasters to report Olympic results in Olympic units (ie metric),
[USMA:28888] Re: mail archive
Thanks, Bill. Think we can get that link included in the list-serve welcome message that's sent upon joining the list? -Original Message- From: Bill Potts [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Feb 23, 2004 10:34 PM To: U.S. Metric Association [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: [USMA:28885] Re: 2004 Olympics All the messages are archived at http://www.mail-archive.com/[EMAIL PROTECTED]/. Bill Potts, CMS Roseville, CA http://metric1.org [SI Navigator]
[USMA:28886] Doctors' scales
So tell me, are more physicians using scales that mass in kilograms? Just out of personal experience, every doctor I've ever visited had scales that weighed in pounds. I asked this to my parents and they each said their doctors' scales 'weigh' in kilograms. The doctor has a chart on the wall that shows the conversion to pounds. I thought that was very cool. Anyone else? It only makes sense since they dose medication in mL / kg. We hear of medical mistakes all the time so this can only help improve the situation. jd
[USMA:28892] Re: NBC Sports
It's [EMAIL PROTECTED]. I appologize if you used the one I sent out earlier. Send it again, Bill - your message is well written. jd -Original Message- From: Bill Hooper [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Feb 23, 2004 10:44 PM To: U.S. Metric Association [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: [USMA:28889] Re: Olympic measurements My marvelous message to NBC sports was bounced back as undeliverable. So, if any of you had a notion to write them, wait until we can find a valid address. If I find one, I will post it here. If someone else has or finds it, please let me know (or post it here). Regards, Bill Hooper Fernandina Beach, Florida, USA
[USMA:28873] Re: A good outdoor thermometer?
Yea, but in my opinion a digital thermometer just isn't as elegant as a nice analog dial. It's frustrating that such an item is nearly impossible to find in this country! I had a hell of a time just trying to find a meter stick. I found one at an education-supply store before I knew Office Depot online sells them. But still, they're dual-labeled as well. jd -Original Message- From: Bill Hooper [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Feb 22, 2004 7:17 PM To: U.S. Metric Association [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: [USMA:28870] Re: A good outdoor thermometer? Jason Darfus wrote: Does anybody on this list have a source for a fashionable outdoor thermometer that preferably shows only degrees Celsius? Most that I have seen in this country (US) are dual. But have you considered a digital thermometer? They can also be found in dual units, too, but in most cases it is switchable so that only one unit shows at a time. You can set it to Celsius and leave it there and never even see the Fahrenheit. That's what I have in my home and car. Regards, Bill Hooper Fernandina Beach, Florida, USA
[USMA:28872] Re: A good outdoor thermometer?
I noticed that too. However, I have a faint prior recollection of seeing the ounce
denoted by a double hash ('') and the pound denoted by a single hash ('). This is
similar to the way people denote inches feet and angular minutes seconds using the
same symbols. I can't see how anybody could possibly be confused by this system, can
you?? ;-)
jd
-Original Message-
From: Bill Hooper [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Sent: Feb 22, 2004 7:22 PM
To: U.S. Metric Association [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Subject: [USMA:28871] Re: A good outdoor thermometer?
chimpsarecute wrote:
it weighs 40g (1½'')
How's that again? :-)
Surely you meant 40 g (1½ oz).
PS That thing between he 1 and the oz should be the fraction
one-half. I'm not sure I produced it correctly on my computer so that
it will show correctly on yours. A recurring problem for me.)
[USMA:28861] A good outdoor thermometer?
Does anybody on this list have a source for a fashionable outdoor thermometer that preferably shows only degrees Celsius? I found this very cool-looking one from a merchant in the U.K. but at the current USD/GBP exchange rate, it's pretty damn expensive. http://www.proidee.co.uk/shop/SID_0123456789_02_GB/F=produkt_formular/P=02_GB_124354 jason --- It is safe to say that after the metric system has been adopted by the U.S. and our people have become accustomed to its use we would no more dream of going back to the present system of weights and measures than we would think of carrying on the processes of arithmetic through the medium of the old Roman letters in place of the Arabic numerals we now employ. Alexander Graham Bell, 1906
[USMA:28825] Re: Kitchen measureing cups
Unless the cup is transparent, I always fill it to the top. However, I DO prefer to just use my big Pyrex measuring cup that has pint/quart, fl. oz., and mL markings. If the recipe calls for 1 cup, I fill it to the line, spin the cup around, and wonder WHY couldn't they just put 250 mL on the package!?! But yea, John Mercer made a good point about online recipes. A cup is not a cup everywhere... the SI is Standard Internationally. ;-) jason On Friday 20 February 2004 18:34, Chimpsarecute wrote: Is there anyone on this list who when measuring with cups is particular to filling it to the exact 1 cup mark. If you do, why? -- It is safe to say that after the metric system has been adopted by the U.S. and our people have become accustomed to its use we would no more dream of going back to the present system of weights and measures than we would think of carrying on the processes of arithmetic through the medium of the old Roman letters in place of the Arabic numerals we now employ. Alexander Graham Bell, 1906
[USMA:28762] Expressing fuel consumption
When one talks about fuel economy (in Imp) it's written as mpg. When one talks about fuel consumption, the inverse of economy, it's usually in SI units and written as L/100 km. When you SAY miles per gallon versus liters per hundred kilometers, I like the Imp. way better because it's just easier to say. So I was thinking, why not multiply the SI fraction by 10 : instead of 4.9 L / 100 km, make it 49 L / 1000 km, also written as 49 LpM (49 Liters per Megameter)? Technically it should be LpMm, but just for simplicity I removed the small m. Now we have something that's a whole number and is just as easy to say as 49 mpg. I'm new to this mailing list so if this has already been brought up, please forgive me.
[USMA:28761] Toaster ovens (°C)
I was in a department store last week and noticed, in the electrodomestics section, at least three different brands of toaster ovens that now show the Celsius scale along with the Fahrenheit scale. They have names like Proctor Silex and Hamilton Beach. Now the food companies just need to start printing the recommended °C temperatures on their packaging.
[USMA:28608] Re: AP slipping
Excellent! I know this is wishful thinking, but maybe my emails are starting to pay off: To the AP: As an American consumer of national and international news, I would like to make a suggestion that the AP make an effort to include SI (metric) units in all stories that include quantifiable data. Since the AP reports to and from all around the world -- a world that uses the metric system -- I believe this suggestion merits serious consideration. Even though I am a born and raised American of 28 years, I prefer to receive my information exclusively in metric units. I don't watch my local news weather because they use the antiquated Imperial units. They won't change until the national media begin their transition to the SI. As an example of what I'm asking for: in the most recent story dated 18 Jan 2004 about the suicide bombing in Baghdad, a CNN reporter stated the truck was loaded with 450 kg, or 1000 lbs, of explosives. Please begin including SI units in all AP reporting, preferably by placing a greater prominence on the SI units and only including the Imp/English units in parenthesis. The SI is what 95% of the world uses, and the American public needs the additional exposure to SI in order to gain familiarity with the units and further progress our agonizingly slow conversion. Sincerely Jason D. Darfus Columbus, OH
