OpenSource

Local tech startup Ayoudo is preparing for the launch of a month-long Social Garden initiative, connecting gardeners across the city through its innovative social media app. Now that spring has arrived and the cherry blossoms have started blooming, Vancouver gardeners are looking to cultivate gardens -- and a sense of community.

“We’re trying to get people to think of gardening as more of a collective effort,” said Ayoudo founder Michael Tippett, explaining his vision to help bring the age-old hobby into the 21^st century.

That sort of “collective” mentality is what Ayoudo is all about. The unique online tool is like a simplified—and more stylish—version of Craigslist, allowing users to either request help or offer their services. Looking for someone to do your taxes, or help with babysitting? No problem. Want to get paid to mow someone’s lawn? Ayoudo will connect you with a homeowner in need.

OpenMedia has just launched a new tool that will let MPs show that they stand with Canada against warrantless online spying, and we're asking Canadians to visit OpenMedia.ca/StandWithUs to send a message about it to their local politicians. The online spying bill still has yet to enter the Committee stage, which is where changes can be made, so now is the perfect time for Canadians to give their input.

At the same time, the copyright bill is passing through Committee, and Big Media is continuing to push for strange and invasive powers. Learn more in this week's update.

The Academy Awards are fast approaching, and a Seattle-based social media agency has generated predictions of Oscar winners based on Facebook and twitter mentions of hte nominees. The study by Banyan Branch is based on mentions from February 21, 2011, to the same date this year. 

 Some interesting findings include:

It's the beginning of the end for Internet throttling, and OpenMedia's newest campaign is coming into play as the hotly contested Bill C-11 moves through the House of Commons.