Counting on Some Math Magic

Is it possible to take a frightfully complicated math problem and make it a supercool experience? Glen Whitney thinks so.

Whitney, president of the “Math Factory,” quit his hedge-fund job in Long island last fall and has devoted himself to creating the first national museum of math.

“Once I got this museum idea,” Whitney said, “it was a real hand-and-glove fit for me. Even though my hedge-fund job was exciting and fun and intellectually demanding, it was a little bit too removed. I wanted to be directly involved with benefiting people.” Read more

INAUGURAL LOTTERY

Since Barack Obama was elected on Nov. 4, Sen. Charles E. Schumer’s office has received nearly 100,000 requests for tickets to the inaugural ceremony on Jan. 20, 2009.

Last Sunday, Schumer’s office announced it will be conducting a statewide lottery to distribute inauguration tickets.

“The inauguration of a new president is always an exciting event,” Schumer said. “After an historic election season and the extraordinary nomination of Barack Obama, it is time for America to celebrate the bright future that is ahead of us. Although I wish all of America could attend the inauguration, there is only so much space, which is why we need to distribute these tickets fairly.”

Tickets are only provided through Congressional offices and are free. Schumer’s office will distribute a total of 350 tickets.

The lottery will take place during the first of December. Interested constituents must submit requests before Sunday, Nov. 30 either online at www.schumer.senate.gov or by fax to 202-228-3027. There is a limit of two ticket requests per person.