This is interesting. Jamaica wants to use GPS-enabled tracking for repeat offenders and persons who have committed petty crimes. It contracted with a Jamaica-owned company (based in California) to build the system, but when the company asked for the national maps from National Land Agency, the country refused to supply them. Says the rep from Jamaica's Ministry of National Security:

They asked us to supply them with maps from the National Land Agency and we said absolutely not. They have to produce their own maps.

Dilieu Technology, which was hired to biuld the system "has offered to purchase maps from another supplier and host them on a Microsoft virtual earth system or build a data base at cost price for the Government." It's unclear how the project will proceed at this point. Further, it's unclear why the government won't share the data it has.

- Jamaica Observer

NPR ran a story yesterday on "One Cold Hand" a website that helps lost single gloves and mittens reunite with their mates in the Pittsburgh area. (The site has received quite a bit of coverage this holiday season; it's a feel good one for sure!) The idea is not new to me, but the LBS twist is noteworthy. When a lone handwarmer is found, the finder, before turning it in, can post a sticker in that location noting the website. That way, if the owner of the lone glove returns to the spot to retrieve it, there's a chance for retrieval. It's a nice simple, "information just where you need it" solution.