Vote For DataMasher in Apps For America 2

Over the past month, I had the privilege of being the Forum One Project Manager for a fun, open-source web application development contest: the Apps for America 2: Data.gov Challenge. In celebration of the release of Data.gov, the Sunlight Foundation sponsored this coding showdown that asked entrants to make a useful web or iPhone application using at least one data feed from the new Data.gov site.

We were eager to participate after successfully coming in second with our Legistalker.org app earlier this year. We conceived "DataMasher" -- a web application that allows users to "mash-up" two sets of state data using an operator of their choice. The result displays in table format as well as visualized on an interactive, "heat," Flash-based map of the United States. Cool right? We thought so.

Apparently, the awesome judges thought so too. Out of 47 entries, Datamasher placed in the top 3! We are extremely excited about this opportunity and eager to make DataMasher #1! But now, we need your help.

Between now and September 7, the public will vote for their favorite app.

You can help. Here's how:

1. Register for a Sunlight Labs account

2. Cast your ballot

Thank you for helping. The winner will be announced at the Gov 2.0 Expo in Washington on Sept. 8, 2009.