I suppose I have only one thing to say this month and that is:  I think you (yes, you who are reading these words) should attend the Joint Meeting of FL-MAA and FTYCMA on February 21, 22 on the campus of Jacksonville University.

Our program chair, Jacci White from Saint Leo University, has developed a rich  program of contributed papers, plenary sessions, and workshops.  Jacci was assisted by next year's program chair, Lubo Markov from Barry University and, on the FTYCMA side, by Debbie Garrison from Valencia.  All of these people deserve our deep thanks and appreciation.  It is already easy to see that this meeting is going to be terrific!

For your pre-meeting viewing pleasure, an advance copy of the complete program is available in this newsletter under the <Program> link.  As in previous meetings, a final hard-copy version of the program will be distributed with your registration materials.

I would like to highlight a few things about the Joint Meeting.

1. There are four outstanding plenary speakers - two on Friday afternoon and two on Saturday morning.  They are Robert Devaney from Boston University, Erich Friedman from Stetson University, Tina Straley from MAA National, and Ron Graham from UC San Diego.
    
2. There are five different workshops that involve in-depth, extended study on a variety of topics - everything from statistics to the uses of mathematics in business decisions.
    
3. There will be a conference banquet and awards ceremony on Friday evening and I am very pleased to announce that Athanassios Kartsatos from the University of South Florida is this year's recipient of the Distinguished Teaching Award and Bill Rush from St. Petersburg College is the recipient of the Distinguished Service Award.  Both of these individuals will receive their awards that Friday evening and I am hopeful that many of us can attend to show our support.
    
4. Of course, the main component of the meeting is the richness and depth of the contributed papers.  As you can see in the program, every kind of school in the state is represented and the papers are arranged, timewise, so that everyone can find something of interest to them.
    
5. As has been our practice, we will be publishing an electronic Conference Proceedings in summer 2003 and all speakers at this meeting are invited to submit a paper for publication.
    
6. Our meeting starts at 1:00pm on Friday, February 21 and all of the preregistration information - registration form, meals, hotel accommodations, etc. - is contained in a later section of this newsletter.

I look forward to seeing you in February at JU and, as this _is_ the January 2003 newsletter, and as I am writing this message on the eve of an historic event.  Let me just say, "GO BUCS!"

Changes to the Bylaws

At the April 2002 meeting of the Executive Committee of the Florida Section of the MAA, the following two changes to the Bylaws were approved.  These changes will be voted on, as amendments to our Bylaws, at the Annual Business Meeting on February 22 at Jacksonville University.

A complete copy of the Bylaws is available in the Archives link of the FL-MAA website.

Herewith the changes:
 

1. Change Article VI, paragraph 1, to read,
    
   Standing committees of the Section include the Executive Committee, Nominating Committee, Program Committee, Site Selection Committee, a Local Arrangements Committee, and the Awards Committee.  The President may appoint other ad hoc committees to carry out the work and activities of the Section.
    
   Rationale:  The current version of this paragraph in the Bylaws calls it a "Mathematics Service Award Committee" but for the last 15 years this committee has also been selecting our Teaching Award recipients.  Calling it the "Awards Committee" encompasses all of the many duties of this committee.  The current version of the paragraph also mentions a "Membership Committee" as a standing committee but this committee has been inactive for years and the Executive Committee felt it was no longer needed.
    
2. Change Article VI, paragraph 2, to read,
    
   The Executive Committee shall appoint the members of the Nominating Committee in such a way that the Nominating Committee is representative of the varied professional and geographic affiliations of the Section's membership.  The Program Committee shall consist of the Vice-President for Programs and the Vice-President-Elect for Programs.  The Site Selection Committee shall consist of the Vice-President for Site Selection and the Vice-President-Elect for Site Selection.  The Awards Committee shall consist of the 3rd, 4th, and 5th Past Presidents and the committee shall be chaired by the 4th Past President.
    
   Rationale:  Although the 3rd, 4th, and 5th Past Presidents have been doing their work on the Awards Committee all these past years, there is no formal mention of this structure in our current Bylaws.  This change will clear that up.  Also, in practice, the standing committees of Program and Site Selection have operated as two-person committees.  This change simply formalizes current practices.

These changes were approved by the Executive Committee and require a simple majority approval at the Annual Business Meeting.

Call For Nominations

Joint Annual Meetings
MAA Florida Section & FTYCMA
February 21-22, 2003
Jacksonville University

Joint Annual Meetings
MAA Florida Section & FTYCMA
February 21-22, 2003
Jacksonville University

Program

Friday, February 21, 2003

9:00 - 10:20 A.M.    Community College Chairs Meeting    Room 214

Cliff Morris, President, FTYCMA

10:30 A.M. - 12:30 P.M.    FTYCMA Business Meeting and Brunch    Room 214

Cliff Morris, President, FTYCMA

1:00 - 1:15 P.M.    Presidential Welcomes    Gooding Auditorium

Gary Moore, Provost and Senior VPAA at JU
David Kerr, President, Florida Section of the MAA
Cliff Morris, President, FTYCMA

1:15 - 2:15 P.M.    Plenary Session    Gooding Auditorium

The Mandelbrot Set, The Farey Tree, and the Fibonacci Sequence

Robert L. Devaney, Boston University

Abstract:  In this lecture we describe several folk theorems concerning the Mandelbrot set.  While this set is extremely complicated from a geometric point of view, we will show that, as long as you know how to add and how to count, you can understand this geometry completely.  We will encounter many famous mathematical objects in the Mandelbrot set, like the Farey tree and the Fibonacci sequence.  And we will find many soon-to-be-famous objects as well, like the "Devaney" sequence.  There might even be a joke or two in the talk.

2:30 - 3:00 P.M.    MAA Invited Speaker    Room 129

An Algorithm to Construct the Identities and Central Identities of the 3x3 Matrices.

Siamack Bondari, Saint Leo University

Abstract:  The goal is to establish an algorithm that can be used to compute all the multilinear identities and central identities of the 3x3 matrices over a field of characteristic zero or large enough primes.  The technique introduced in this presentation uses the concepts of group representation theory and relies heavily on computer programming.  The method is a general method and can be applied to other algebras.

2:30 - 3:00 P.M.    Contributed Paper    Nelms 2

First Elements of Calculus

Terry Quin, Ohio University Southern

Abstract:  In this talk I give examples for how a student can be introduced to The Fundamental Theorem of Calculus, in a way that focuses on two principal insights.  In my experience this approach is typically accessible at the High School level.  The student discovers some of the preliminary formulas on their own, and so also avoids the problem prevalent in many textbooks that teach Calculus formulas by rote.

2:30 - 3:00 P.M.    MAA Invited Speaker    Room 228

Creating Optimum Learning Environments in Face to Face, Blended and Online Classes

Peg Greene, Florida Community College at Jacksonville

Abstract:  FCCJ and Virginia Tech have collaborated in creating a professional development course for instructors to learn how to incorporate learning theory and teaching strategies into their classes to make them more interactive.  This course is supported by a FIPSE grant.

2:30 - 3:00 P.M.    Contributed Paper    Room 114A

Modeling Real-Life Data: Analytically, Numerically, and Graphically

Ron Larson, Penn State University

Abstract:  This talk uses sample worksheets that encourage students to approach modeling with understanding.  The thoughtful use of a graphing calculator is encouraged --- along with analytic and numerical methods.  Six worksheets cover linear, quadratic, exponential, and power models and are appropriate for use in a course in college algebra, precalculus, or calculus.

2:30 - 3:00 P.M.    Contributed Paper    Room 213

Mathematical Tricks for Spreadsheets

Ted Andresen, St. Petersburg College

Abstract:  The presentation will focus on some of the options available in spreadsheets for managing grades, tracking, modeling and forecasting financial variables, such as, working and retirement income, expenses and benefits.

2:30 - 2:45 P.M.    Student Paper    Room 125

Factoring in a Timely Fashion

Sara York, Florida Atlantic University

Abstract:  Many encryption systems rely on the difficulty of factoring large numbers.  This talk will describe two variations of a factoring algorithm based on the trick of expressing the number to be factored as a difference of perfect squares.  A comparison for the algorithms will be provided.

2:30 - 4:30 P.M.    MAA Invited Statistics Workshop    Nelms 1

In a World of Data Statistics Count

Richard L. Sheaffer, University of Florida

Abstract:  Data are hot! Everywhere one turns - on the job, in the home, at play – one is engulfed by more data.  As the discipline that deals with the logical collection and analysis of data, statistics (or at least statistical thinking) is in greater demand than ever.  In fact, the demand is so great, and the needs so pervasive and important, that the job of statistical education cannot be left to the relatively few statisticians in the land.  Education in statistical thinking must become the province and a priority of all quantitative fields, most significantly mathematics and science.  It must start at grades K through 12 and continue through undergraduate education.

The workshop will present an overview of current trends in K-16 statistics education, using hands-on activities to illustrate some of the major concepts that form the heart of the curriculum.

Data will shape the future - count on it!

3:15 - 4:30 P.M.    TI-89 Workshop    Room 129

Survey of TI-89 Applications

Mike Nancarrow and Sanjay Rai, Jacksonville University
Richard Lee, Florida Community College at Jacksonville

Abstract:  This workshop will introduce participants to a variety of ways to employ the TI-89 in undergraduate mathematics classes.  Demonstrations and instruction will focus on topics in college algebra, calculus, and differential equations.  Written materials including basic calculator instructions and exercises appropriate for use in the classroom and as homework assignments will be provided.  Loaner calculators will be available.

3:15 - 4:30 P.M.    Maple Workshop    Nelms 2

Maple Workshop

Karen Ranger, Waterloo Maple Inc.

Abstract:  Experience firsthand how Maple can be used to assist in teaching Calculus from Trigonometry to Differential Equations.  Discussed in this presentation are two new packages that will make educators lives much easier.  A new student package allows you to single-step through single variable calculus problems, and the revolutionary Maplets package provides tools to build graphical user interfaces so you can hide Maple syntax altogether.  Graphics and calculations will be shown for all examples demonstrated.

3:15 - 3:45 P.M.    Contributed Paper    Room 228

The History of a Course Website

Raymond Young, Embry Riddle University

Abstract:  A website to accompany a business statistics course was created in 2000.  It was put into service and has been in constant use since the fall of that year.  The intended purpose, philosophy of the creators, considerations of time and effort, student reaction, and continuing development of that website.

3:15 - 3:45 P.M.    Contributed Paper    Room 114A

Analysis of a Modified Model of b-cell mass, insulin, glucose, and receptor dynamics

Adam Singleton and Sanjay Rai, Jacksonville University

Abstract:  Type II diabetes, or non-insulin-dependent diabetes, accounts for approximately 90% of the incidence of diabetes mellitus in the United States.  In this disease, the total mass of insulin-producing b-cells of the pancreas is known to decrease in response to insulin resistance.  Following the work of Rubin et al., we propose the addition of a logistic term to control the growth of b-cells.  In an effort to accurately simulate the anatomical constraints of the pancreas, this modification provides a means to model a limiting b-cell mass.  We examine the effects of this term on the four dimensional system proposed to model the relationship between insulin, glucose, b-cells, and insulin receptors.  The long-term effect of a treatment term, corresponding to the effect of daily insulin treatment, is considered.  Numerical solutions and stability analysis of both the modified and treated systems are provided.  Though the treatment does not affect the equilibrium level of glucose, but rather alters the initial trajectory, the logistic term provides a realistic extension of previous models by effectively limiting the maximum b-cell mass.

3:15 - 3:45 P.M.    Contributed Paper    Room 213

Language of DNA based code words

Kalpana Mahalingam, University of South Florida

Abstract:  We introduce a theoretical approach of designing code words that may be useful in biomolecular computations.  The code words are considered to be a language over alphabet \Sigma = {A,G,T,C} and an involution \Phi:A->T,G->C which is an antimorphism of \Sigma* describes the Watso Crick bonds.  We discuss the closure properties of these languages such that their words do not form undesirable bonds.  We also provide methods to obtain such languages

3:15 - 3:30 P.M.    Student Paper    Room 125

Fractal Dimension: An Analysis of Different Definitions

John Richard Samuels Jr., Florida Atlantic University

Abstract:  We will explore two of the most widely used definitions of fractal dimension.  The goal is to provide an example where the different definitions produce different results.  This example will highlight the meaning and interpretation of each definition of dimension, as well as reveal the drawbacks of each definition.

4:00 - 4:30 P.M.    Contributed Paper    Room 228

Euclidean Constructions: A Student Project

Maky Manchola

Abstract:  This project is for a one-semester college geometry course.  The purpose is to involve the student in a detailed exploration of geometric constructions with focus on tools.

4:00 - 4:30 P.M.    Contributed Paper    Room 114A

Using exploremath.com in Mathematics Instruction

Martha Goshaw, Seminole Community College

Abstract:  I will discuss the various ways I use the interactive website exploremath.com in my classroom both to enhance my teaching and to increase student access.  The talk will show some of the interactive activities I use and discuss how I use the course page feature.

4:00 - 4:30 P.M.    Contributed Paper    Room 213

What is Mathematics?  Toward a Global View

Lisa Coulter, Stetson University

Abstract:  Advances in the history of mathematics lead to insights into its origins and practice outside of Europe and among traditional peoples.  I address these findings and a college course based on them.  I also raise the question of whether they force a reexamination of preconceptions regarding what constitutes mathematics.

4:00 - 4:15 P.M.    Student Paper    Room 125

Assessment of NEAR XGRS X-ray spectra

Anthony Genova, Embry Riddle University

Abstract:  The objective of this work is to quantitatively assess NEAR XGRS X-ray spectra for evidence of weak X-ray lines.  The results included temporal fluctuations observed in the received data that followed a Poissonian statistical distribution and a constructed model of X-ray fluorescence spectra including background and line features.  Verification implies likelihood functions for the X-ray data can be developed using Poisson probability densities.  The X-ray fluorescence spectra model is currently crude but captures principal features and provides basis for statistical signal detection.

4:45PM – 5:45PM    Plenary Session    Gooding Auditorium

Reptiles, Partridges, and Golden Bees – Tiling Shapes with Similar Copies

Erich Friedman, Stetson University

Abstract:  A favorite problem of recreational mathematicians over the last few decades has been cutting a shape into smaller similar tiles.  We consider many variations on the theme: requiring all the tiles to be congruent, or all different sizes, or letting the frequency of tiles be proportional to size, or letting them be any size at all.

Usually the mathematically interesting questions are the existence of a tiling, and the minimal number of tiles needed.  The field of packing, covering, and tiling admits many conjectures and pretty pictures, but few known results.  We summarize the best known results of several related problems, including some recent results, and present many open problems.

6:00 P.M.    Conference Banquet and Awards Ceremony    Sam Marks Chapel

Saturday, February 22, 2003

8:30 - 9:30 A.M.    Plenary Session    Gooding Auditorium

Issues in Undergraduate Mathematics Education

Tina Straley, MAA Executive Director

Abstract:  The CBMS Survey 2000 reveals trends about which the mathematics community must be concerned.  While undergraduate mathematics enrollments are healthy, the number of mathematics majors has been declining for a decade.  Departments report increasing reliance on part-time faculty and a growing phenomenon of temporary, full-time faculty.  Yet there are many opportunities to revitalize undergraduate mathematics and to attract students to majors that lead to exciting careers.  What can faculty and departments do to respond to the current needs within and without the major for students with strong mathematical skills? How is the MAA responding and what more should the Association be doing?

9:30 - 10:00 A.M.    MAA Invited Speaker    Room 114A

Conjugacy Classes in Upper Triangular Groups

John Thompson, University of Florida

Abstract:  Unavailable at this time

9:30 - 10:00 A.M.    Contributed Paper    Room 213

A Differential Equation Model for the Bacterial Phage Dynamics

Sanjay Rai, Jacksonville University
D. Bell, J. Holcomb, P. Risko, and J. Shawver, FCCJ

Abstract:  This talk will present a brief history of the treatment of bacterial infections using Phage virus.  A modified version of a well known model for the dynamics of Phage, Bacteria, Resistant Bacteria, Immune Response and Antibiotic will be introduced.  A local stability analysis of the model will be discussed.  Numerical solutions for various values of the system parameters will be analyzed.

9:30 - 10:00 A.M.    Contributed Paper    Room 125

The Teacher Preparation of Research Mathematicians Prior to Being Hired

Stacie Badran, Florida State University

Abstract:  Data indicated minimal teaching experience and instruction during and after graduate school, and showed there was little effort for improving teaching methods.  Professors with prior teaching experience sought out new methods of teaching, while professors with little or no experience only learned from encounters as instructor in the classroom.

9:30 - 10:00 A.M.    Contributed Paper    Room 228

Morphic Properties of Forbidding and Enforcing Systems

Daniela Genova, University of South Florida

Abstract:  We consider a new way of defining classes of formal languages through a set of forbidden subwords and a set of enforced words.  Forbidding and enforcing systems were inspired by chemical properties of DNA and actions of restriction enzymes.  We will describe homomorphisms that preserve the structure of these systems and are continuous in the natural underlined topology of the space of all languages.

9:30 - 10:00 A.M.    Contributed Paper    Nelms 2

On Degree Theory in Infinite Dimensional Spaces

A. G. Kartsatos, University of South Florida

Abstract:  Degree Theory is one of the main methods of Nonlinear Functional Analysis.  It allows us to solve a variety of problems in the field of Partial Differential Equations.  One defines the "degree" of a mapping F from an open and bounded set G of X into X, where X is a real Banach space.  If the mapping F is a compact displacement of the identity and this degree is not zero, then F has a zero in G.  Extensions to much more general situations will also be considered.

9:30 - 11:30 A.M.    Discussion    Nelms 1

Developmental Mathematics: Recommendations for Florida

Norma Agras and Martha Goshaw, Miami Dade Community College

Abstract:  This year the First Annual Mathematics In The Sun Retreat was held in September on the campus of St. Petersburg College in Tarpon Springs.

The purpose for this year's retreat was to create a model developmental mathematics program for Florida that would prepare students for college mathematics, particularly in light of the technology that is available to us today.  This topic was initially discussed at the Joint Meetings that were held in Gainesville in March, 2002.  In this session faculty will discuss the recommendations that stemmed from the retreat and from subsequent communication and input from faculty within Florida and elsewhere.  Recommendations cover the areas of curriculum, testing/assessment, teaching strategies, and retention strategies.

9:30 - 11:30 A.M.    MAA Invited National Workshop    Room 129

Mathematics for Business Decisions

Richard Thompson, University of Arizona

This workshop has a pre-registration fee of $20 and a capacity of 12 participants.

10:15 - 10:45 A.M.    MAA Invited Speaker    Room 114A

Geological numeracy: Quantitative literacy and geoscience education

Len Vacher, University of South Florida

Abstract:  Quantitative literacy (numeracy) is the intersection of mathematics and everyday context, then geological numeracy is the intersection of mathematics, everyday context, and geologic content.  Among the visitors to this three-way intersection are professional geologists trying to use mathematics to solve geological problems, and geology students trying to use mathematics to learn geological concepts.  In the vast majority of cases, the mathematics is a stumbling block, although the people in question have had a year of calculus and the mathematics in question does not exceed the NCTM Standards.  The first purpose of this presentation is to give feedback from my courses in geological-mathematical problem solving on the kinds of elementary mathematics that stumps these veterans of the calculus-crowned mathematics curriculum.  A second purpose is to point to some classic (intrinsically interesting), geological problems that can be used to motivate some mathematical concepts.  These mathematical concepts are basic and transfer easily to nongeological context.  These problems, therefore, can be used to enhance quantitative literacy in the traditional sense of the term.

10:15 - 10:45 A.M.    Contributed Paper    Room 213

Recent work on Fuzzy Differential Equations

Ram Mohapatra, University of Central Florida

Abstract:  In this lecture, we shall review current research in Fuzzy Differential equations and will show how Hukuhara's concept of a derivative can be used to consider differential equations.  Initial value problems as well as boundary problems will be established via comparison theorems.

10:15 - 10:45 A.M.    Contributed Paper    Room 125

Summing Up the Alternating Harmonic Series and its Close Relatives

Scott Hochwald, University of North Florida

Abstract:  The alternating harmonic series sums to ln(2).  We will present a nontraditional proof of this as well as finding the sums of other rearrangements of the harmonic series into which we have strategically inserted minus signs.  We'll also find the sum of a series that baffled both Newton and Leibnitz.

10:15 - 10:45 A.M.    Contributed Paper    Room 228

A Nice Integral Transformation

Sidney Kung, Jacksonville University (retired)

Abstract:  Let f (x) be integrable on the interval [p,q].  The fact the integral of f (x) from p to q is equal to the integral of f (p + q - x) from p to q has not been given much attention in the teaching of calculus.  In this article, Several interesting properties are developed which can be applied to evaluate some difficult integrals, particularly those with integrand involving products of trigonometric, exponential, and logarithmic functions.  A geometric interpretation of the above said property is given.

10:15 - 10:45 A.M.    Contributed Paper    Nelms 2

On Degree Theory in Infinite Dimensional Spaces: Follow-up

A. G. Kartsatos, University of South Florida

Abstract:  Degree Theory is one of the main methods of Nonlinear Functional Analysis.  It allows us to solve a variety of problems in the field of Partial Differential Equations.  One defines the "degree" of a mapping F from an open and bounded set G of X into X, where X is a real Banach space.  If the mapping F is a compact displacement of the identity and this degree is not zero, then F has a zero in G.  Extensions to much more general situations will also be considered.

11:00 - 11:30 A.M.    Contributed Paper    Room 114A

Behavior of Power Series on the Boundary of Convergence

Lubomir Markov, Barry University

Abstract:  For a given power series, Abel’s Theorem guarantees the existence of a disk centered at the origin such that the series is convergent for every point from the interior of the disk.  The purpose of our talk will be to examine some of the very interesting things that may happen to a series on the periphery of its disk of convergence.

11:00 - 11:30 A.M.    MAA Invited Speaker    Room 213

Let’s get into the game spirits

Li Zhou, Polk Community College

Abstract:  Two-person combinatorial games are fun to play.  But the winning strategies are often difficult to find, and involve interesting mathematical thinking.  Some of the more difficult games have also attracted substantial research interests in recent decades.  In this talk, we will introduce some basic ideas, illustrated by games proposed to the problem sections of the MAA journals.

11:00 - 11:30 A.M.    Contributed Paper    Room 125

Traditions of School Mathematics in Japanese and American Elementary Classrooms

Stacie Badran, Florida State University

Abstract:  A comparison of a typical lesson plan from traditional American and Japanese mathematics teaching is presented, and key differences in the instruction are revealed.  American traditionally places the active role on the teacher, while Japanese places activity in the hands of the students.

11:00 - 11:30 A.M.    Contributed Paper    Room 228

Puzzles for Abstract Algebra

Stephanie Fitchett, Florida Atlantic University

Abstract:  A Rubik's Cube can provide concrete examples of interesting permutation groups, and useful applications of conjugation.  This talk provides examples of activities appropriate for students with some knowledge of group theory.

11:45 A.M. - 12:45 P.M.    Plenary Session    Gooding Auditorium

Mathematics and Computers: Problems and Prospects

Ronald L. Graham, MAA President

Abstract:  In this talk, I will describe a variety of mathematical problems for which computers have helped solve, may someday help solve, or will certainly never be of any help in solving.

12:45 - 1:00 P.M.    Presidential Farewell and Thanks    Gooding Auditorium

David Kerr, President, Florida Section of the MAA
Cliff Morris, President, FTYCMA

1:00 P.M.    Conference Luncheon and Annual Business Meeting    Sam Marks Chapel

Joint Annual Meetings
MAA Florida Section & FTYCMA
February 21-22, 2003
Jacksonville University

Mathematics for Business Decisions
A Workshop Opportunity

At our Section Meeting, on Saturday, February 22, 2003, we will be offering a two-hour workshop on an innovative and interdisciplinary business mathematics course for undergraduate students.  We invite you to discover and explore Mathematics for Business Decisions with its principal writer, Professor Richard Thompson of the University of Arizona.  Participants will receive two CDs containing the year-long course material, a guided course tour in CD format, and an extensive instructor training and resource manual.  You must make a reservation to attend.  Space is limited to 12 participants.  Here are the details:

Saturday, February 22, 2003
9:30 to 11:30 A.M.
Room 129

Contact jacci.white@saintleo.edu to make a reservation.  Don’t miss this unique opportunity!

Thirty-Sixth Annual Meeting of the
Florida Section of the MAA
February 21-22, 2003
Jacksonville University

Conference Proceedings

We will be publishing an electronic Conference Proceedings for the 36th Annual Meeting of the Florida Section of the MAA.  These Proceedings will be similar in format to the ones that were created for the 2001 and 2002 meetings.  All presenters at the sectional meeting at Jacksonville University are invited to write-up their presentation and submit it for consideration.  We will accept submissions through April 30, 2003.  Please direct any questions you might have to David Kerr at kerr@eckerd.edu.

Herewith the instructions:

1. There is no minimum or maximum length to your paper.
2. Your paper should be prepared camera ready on 8.5 by 11 paper with a minimum of 1 inch borders on each edge.
3. At the top of the first page of your paper, please center in bold font, using at least three separate lines, the title, your name, and your institutional affiliation.
4. Your paper may be either single-spaced or double-spaced and a type font of 12, 13 or 14 count is preferred.
5. Submit two copies of your paper and a PDF file to:

David Kerr
Editor, Proceedings of the Florida Section
Eckerd College
P.O. Box 12560
St. Petersburg, FL 33733

Be sure to label the diskette you send with your name.

Joint Annual Meetings
MAA Florida Section & FTYCMA
February 21-22, 2003
Jacksonville University

Accommodations

Joint Annual Meetings
MAA Florida Section & FTYCMA
February 21-22, 2003
Jacksonville University

Food Service

Joint Annual Meetings
MAA Florida Section & FTYCMA
February 21-22, 2003
Jacksonville University

Directions

Traveling East on I-10

Merge with I-95 North.  Exit onto Union Street heading east.  Cross St. Johns River on the Mathews Bridge.  The road becomes Arlington Expressway.  The first exit after crossing the bridge is for University Boulevard.  Drive under the University Boulevard overpass and immediately bear right to exit onto University Boulevard North.  At intersection of University Boulevard North and Merrill Road, turn left into the Jacksonville University entrance road.  Take the first right after entering the campus.  Pass in front of Howard, the administration building.  When the road ends, Merritt C. Penticoff Science Building is the building facing you on your left.  Follow signs for parking.

Traveling North on I-95

Take Southside Boulevard exit (State Rd. 115 ­ Exit 340 [old exit 99]), heading north.  Cross Beach Boulevard and Atlantic Boulevard.  Southside Boulevard becomes Southside Connector.  Turn left onto Merrill Road just before the 9A interchange.  The Jacksonville University campus entrance is at the end of Merrill Road, at the intersection with University Boulevard North.  Stay in the left lane of Merrill Road to proceed into the campus.  Take the first right after entering the campus.  Pass in front of Howard, the administration building.  When the road ends, Merritt C. Penticoff Science Building is the building facing you on your left.  Follow signs for parking.

Traveling South on I-95

Take the 9A South exit (Exit 362A ­ old exit 126A) across the St. Johns River to Merrill Road.  Exit onto the Merrill Road access road and turn right (west) on Merrill Road.  The Jacksonville University campus entrance is at the end of Merrill Road, at intersection with University Boulevard North.  Stay in the left lane of Merrill Road to proceed into the campus.  Take the first right after entering the campus.  Pass in front of Howard, the administration building.  When the road ends, Merritt C. Penticoff Science Building is the building facing you on your left.  Follow signs for parking.

Joint Annual Meetings
MAA Florida Section & FTYCMA
February 21-22, 2003
Jacksonville University

For more details, please visit http://mappoint.msn.com/.

Joint Annual Meetings
MAA Florida Section & FTYCMA
February 21-22, 2003
Jacksonville University

For more details, please visit http://www.ju.edu/tour/directions.asp.

Ken Pothoven
Department of Mathematics - PHY 114
University of South Florida
4202 East Fowler Avenue
Tampa, Florida 33620-5700

The meeting of the Board of Governors of the MAA was held on January 14.  The following are a few of the items of note.

The treasurer, John Kenelly, listed three major goals for his office during the coming year:  development growth, diligent real estate management, and exploration of new revenue streams.  The MAA is financially sound, despite the changes in the national economy.  Nevertheless, the Board approved a modest increase in dues for 2004.  There will be no dues assessed for retirees who have been members in good standing for 20 years.

As you read in Focus, Paul and Virginia Halmos have contributed $3 million to be used to renovate the Carriage House to provide a Conference Center and to conduct mathematics-intensive workshops and seminars.

There are a large number of NSF grants pending.  One of special interest to the Florida Section is funding regional undergraduate conferences.  More on this later.

The MAA is taking over information services previously not done in-house.  A Director of Information Services is to be hired, and a manager of sponsored programs will be appointed.

It will shortly be possible to order books from an On-Line Bookstore.  Look for the link from the MAA home page.  You will need to provide your member identification number (see the address label on your issue of Focus).

Math Awareness Month in April has as its theme Math and Art.  Look for the web page at http://www.mathforum.org/mam/.  Also look for the May cover of the College Mathematics Journal for the dog that knows calculus.

The next election will be done electronically or by mail.  Watch for the ballot.

There will be new award, the Henry L. Alder award for Distinguished Teaching by Beginning College or University Faculty.

Eckerd College

Faculty

Eduardo Fernandez attended the annual meeting of the American Physical Society and presented the poster "Two dimensional simulations in Hall Thrusters." The poster dealt with his continuing work on Hall thrusters and Mark Cappelli at Stanford University was a co-author on the poster.

Additionally, Eduardo was a co-author on the paper "Nonlinear instability and stability in collisionless trapped electron mode turbulence" which was published this year in the journal 'Physics of Plasmas.'  Collaborators on the paper are P.W. Terry, D.A. Baver, and R. Gatto at the University of Wisconsin.

Jerry Junevicus is continuing his work with Aly Hamoula of the University of Stavanger on a model for rock fracturing.

Florida International University

New Faculty

Laura de Carli, a native of Italy, received her Ph.D. from UCLA and came to FIU from her most recent position at the University of Missouri at Columbia.  Her field is harmonic analysis.

Gueo Grantcharov received his Ph.D. from Sofia University in Bulgaria.  He has been at the University of California at Riverside, and his field is differential geometry.

Other Faculty News

Tom Leness who applies gauge theory to smooth topology of manifolds, has been promoted to associate professor and received tenure.

Tony Shershin has a new official title, Founding Professor, which he received at the Celebration of the 30^th year of FIU's opening this Fall.

Enrique Villamor has been re-elected chairman of the department for another 3-year term.

Philippe Rukimbira, Tony Shershin, and John Zweibel have all successfully returned from their sabbaticals last year.

Jacksonville University

Department

The Florida Section of the MAA and FTYCMA meeting will be held at Jacksonville University on February 21 and 22.

Faculty 

Marcelle Bessman's paper "Good Practices in Using the Internet to Provide Mathematics Instruction in Precalculus and Calculus Courses" will appear in the MAA notes volume "Rethinking the Road Toward Calculus"

Pam Crawford will speak on part of the material "Assisting Students with Composing and Evaluating Oral Presentation Presentations" at the MAA contributed paper session on Helping Students Give Effective Mathematics Presentations at the 2003 Joint AMS/MAA meetings in Baltimore.  Dr. Crawford's History of Mathematics course will be included in the MAA CUPM's curriculum guide as "Best Practices" in teaching.

Bob Hollister's paper "Rotavirus Infection in Neonatal ICU" was in the December 2002 issue of The Pediatric Infectious Disease Journal (V. 21, No. 12, p. 1099-1105).  Dr. Hollister presented a paper "A Capstone Course in Mathematics" at the November meeting at Flagler College.

Professors Bessman, Crawford, Hollister, Nancarrow, Rai, Repsher, and Ryan attended the NE Florida Region meeting at Flagler College in November.

  Students

Alvin Hepburn, Jamie Jackson, and Megan McCuiston participated in the Putnam Exam in December 2002.

Adam Singleton's paper entitled "Insulin Glucose Dynamics" has been accepted for presentation at this year's National Conference on Undergraduate Research (NCUR).  Professor Sanjay Rai served as the faculty advisor for this research.

Manatee Community College

Department

Pilot Study Tests New Format of College Prep Courses

In an effort to improve the student success rate in Prealgebra and Basic Algebra courses, seven Mathematics Department faculty members from Manatee Community College have joined forces to teach using an alternate course format.  Instead of students taking three contact hours with their instructor in a class setting and one hour of Math Lab outside of class with a different instructor and students from various classes, students in the alternate classes will remain as a group and attend Math Lab with their class instructor.  The intent is to provide more cohesion from class to lab in efforts to provide more individual help to students.  Activities in Math Lab will begin with students learning about their individual learning styles.  Following lab sessions will address the needs of various types of learning and will include activities involving group work, manipulatives and multimedia software.

St. Petersburg College

Faculty

Jim Rutledge gave an invited presentation on Innovative Teaching Strategies at the Enhancing Minority Student Presence and Success in the Community College conference in October at the Sheraton Sand Key Resort in Clearwater.  He also participated in the Midterm Planning meeting of the MERLOT organization (http://www.merlot.org/) as co-Editor-in-Chief of MERLOT-Mathematics.

Karen Emerson, Judy Fraser, Sharon Griggs, Joe Hargray, Sonja Hensler, Bill Rush, Jim Rutledge and Cora Wilkerson attended the MAA Suncoast Section meeting at Florida Southern College in December.

University of Central Florida

Department

The Society of Industrial and Applied Mathematics has recently approved a new Activity Group on Nonlinear Waves and Coherent Structures.  This new Activity Group was proposed by David Kulp (UCF), Roy Choudhury (UCF), Jerry Bona (University of Chicago) and Gregor Kovacic (Rensselaer Polytechnical Institute). The new Activity Group will be the primary group for research meetings in this area. They will hold their first meeting at UCF in early 2004.

Faculty

Peter Hilton will be serving as a Distinguished Professor in the Department again this spring semester.  We feel very privileged to have Peter with us.  He continues to be very active at both the national and international level.

University of South Florida

Faculty

Mourad Ismail was also appointed an editor of the Journal of Physics.

Manoug Manougian wrote an award winning documentary ``The Genocide Factor:  The Human Tragedy.''  The four-part documentary was aired on PBS.  He believes that ``If we are going to bring an end to genocide and crimes against humanity, we've got to educate our children.''

Ralph Oberste-Vorth left USF to become Head of the Division of Mathematics at Marshall University in Huntington, West Virginia.  Professor Oberste-Vorth received his Ph.D. from Cornell University in 1987, where he worked on topology over complex domains under John Hubbard.  He came to USF in 1989, was tenured in 1995, and became Associate Chair in 1998.  He oversaw the undergraduate program, and continued to do research in topology, especially in complex dynamics.  And just a few months ago, he and his wife Jamie had a new baby boy named Troy.  We wish them well in their future adventures.

Yuncheng You published a book on ``Dynamics of Evolutionary Equations.''

Project NExT

Sponsored by both the MAA and the ExxonMobil Foundation, Project NExT (New Experiences in Teaching) is a national program for new and recent PH.D.’s who are interested in improving undergraduate mathematics instruction.  Participants are selected on an annual basis with the deadline for this years application being April 11, 2003.

Complete information on Project NExT is available at:  http://archives.math.utk.edu/projnext/.

PMET:  A New Program of the MAA

A growing set of national reports call for better preparation of the nation's mathematics teachers by mathematics faculty.  To help meet this need, the MAA is organizing a multifaceted program, Preparing Mathematicians to Educate Teachers (PMET).

The PMET program will have three major components:
 

1. Faculty Training:  Workshops (http://www.maa.org/pmet/workshops.html) of varying duration throughout the year and minicourses at professional meetings;
    
2. Information and Resources:  Articles in professional journals, panels at meetings, multimedia web sites and hard-copy material to support faculty instruction for teachers;
    
3. Mini-grants and Regional Networks:  To nurture and support grassroots innovation in teacher education on individual campuses.  The initial regional networks will be in California, New York, North Carolina, Nebraska, and Ohio.

An extensive article on the PMET program and how MAA members can participate will appear in the March issue of FOCUS (http://www.maa.org/pmet/focus.html).

PREP

The MAA's Professional Enhancement Program (PREP) will offer a wide variety of workshops during summer 2003.  PREP workshops offer you the chance to spend a few days exploring topics of mutual interest with colleagues from other institutions, with experienced leaders to guide the group towards a deeper understanding and broader perspective.  Most of the cost of attending a PREP workshop is covered by the program, so what are you waiting for?

Visit the PREP web site, http://www.maa.org/prep/ to see this year's schedule and to obtain registration materials.