As discussed in recent Raincity Radio podcasts (check out episodes with Marc and Jordan and Boris Mann), a group of community-minded geeks are mobilizing and rolling out free wi-fi for the people of Vancouver.

The coverage started in Gastown - spewing Internet goodness from biz offices and personal lairs alike. The vibe is now spreading to other neighborhoods (Commercial Drive would be ideal eh) speckling the Freethenet.ca map with shiny pins.

Now that the Raincity squad are settled into the new digs (1 Alexander, Sweet 420), a Meraki unit is proudly sending out bandwidth goodness towards the statue of ole Gassy Jack - who's likeness is usually surrounded by a gaggle of tourists.

So when you are squatting in a local pub or cafe along the charming cobble stone streets, login, enjoy - then participate.

While you are enjoying the tasty wi-fi remember, it's not free like a free lunch - someone is paying the bills and that someone could include you and/or your business.

As (another node host) Bryght's Boris Mann says, "It's free as in freedom - the wi-fi isn't appearing magically, the wi-fi is there because businesses and individuals are sharing with the community."

Yup, it's is not the phone companies, the data providers or the municipalities - it's us and you. Have an urban window? Learn how to buy your wireless mesh node then fit in on the (rapidly growing) map.

Update: Out of Hardware