Write That Down in Your Henry Calendar

Re “If Physicist Has His Way, Existing Calendar’s Days Are Numbered,” Dec. 25: I say, “Let’s do it.” Let’s supplant the Gregorian calendar with the Henry calendar at once -- in 2006, or, if not then, at the next available opportunity in 2012. It’s certainly a better scheme than any of the alternative calendars that I’ve envisioned.

I would suggest just one modification to Richard Conn Henry’s scheme, however. “Newton Week” sounds too prosaic. (Imagine announcing the arrival of your newborn: “Born Wednesday, Newton Week 4, 2009.” Not only prosaic, but clumsy and slightly ambiguous.)

I propose that we take a cue from the late “Seinfeld” show, and call the leap-week “Festivus.” Make it obligatory that no one in the world labors during this week, and make it a bacchanalian celebration of physical fitness and fun.

Gordon M. Brown

San Diego