Some free fun is scheduled for this Sunday -- a mapping party!
Whether you've looked online for directions to someplace local, planned a long road trip, or traveled the world only through GoogleEarth, many of us have come across current map technology. Even most new cell phones and camcorders have GPS capabilities, indicating your location when using these devices.
Accurate maps have been important tools for centuries, and history shows us those with the best maps and features often won some race for economic gain. Think Silk Road, or the search for a quicker trade route from Europe to India. In today's world, maps created using GPS technology can be found almost anywhere for almost anything. Think of those commercials where the car's GPS tells a driver to turn right (and they smack into a store).
This Sunday, April 5th -- head over to Bollo's in Downtown Blacksburg at 10 am (or earlier to enjoy one of their awesome breakfast meals). Attendees will be introduced to Open Street Map (OSM), something inspired by the free, editable Wiki online encyclopedia. OSM parties around the world are creating global maps using portable GPS, aerial photography and other free sources.
Then think scavenger hunt, where participants will go to various locations throughout the town gathering map data -- walking, driving, cycling -- your choice. Experienced mappers and geographers will be on hand to help novices that just want to be part of the activity or get more familiar with this new technology. Between 1 and 3pm, everyone will return to Bollo's to upload data and edit maps, enjoying refreshments and dialog about the process and event.
This first local mapping party encourages people with GPS units, digital cameras or laptops to bring these items along -- but they aren't required for participation. The focus of this mapping experience will be to document and share cycling related features and data, rain or shine.
If you think you'd like to check this out or want to know more, contact one of the organizers here. You can wrap up the day by enjoying the sights, smells, touch and tastes found at the week-long International Festival events.