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There's a wave of online maps sweeping America -- and they are being used for fun and to save money, time and aggravation. They are called MASHUPS , combining online Google maps with all kinds of every day information.

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These are basically Google maps that incorporate existing other data in an easy-to-understand way.
Some mashups are newsy, like this one that shows you the nearest iPhone availability - iphone.findnearby.net or the one that tries to track terrorism events around the world, GlobalincidentMap.com. But most are just helpful or fun or both.

Here are some to try:

• TaxiWiz.com: taxi fare calculator
• HousingMaps.com: a way to get apartment/housing listings - a marriage of Craigslist and Google Maps
• CellReception.com: see where the cellphone towers are located
• WeddingMapper.com: a really fun way to tell wedding guests where all the events are
• WalkJogRun.net or MapMyRun.com: create your own maps of your runs or walks.
• NYSee.net: see live traffic cams - click on "traffic cams" on the left and then click on the markers on the map.
• FindByClick.com: find nearby Starbucks, Barnes & Noble, Borders, etc.
• DaylightMap.com: see where daylight is anywhere in the world at any point.

Here are lists of dozens of mashups:

• Lifehack.org's essential mashups list
• Google Maps Mania - lots addedd every day

Making your own Google Maps:

• Maps.Google.com - just go to the left side and click on "My Maps"
• CommunityWalk.com

What do you think? Send me your favorite mashups - and any you create yourself by using this form.