Blog

  • Turkey Ignites AI Future: Major Call for Proposals Launched for AI Ecosystem 2026

    Turkey is poised to make a significant leap forward in technological innovation with the launch of its ambitious “Artificial Intelligence Ecosystem 2026” initiative. This groundbreaking program, spearheaded by a major call for proposals, aims to catalyze the development of a vibrant, interconnected, and globally competitive AI landscape within the nation over the next three years. The initiative underscores Turkey’s strategic commitment to harnessing artificial intelligence as a cornerstone for future economic growth, societal advancement, and international collaboration.

    The vision behind AI Ecosystem 2026 is multifaceted: to create a fertile ground where cutting-edge AI research flourishes, innovative startups thrive, and a skilled workforce emerges. It’s an invitation to bright minds and pioneering organizations – both local and international – to contribute to shaping Turkey’s digital future. This call for proposals is not merely about funding projects; it’s about building collective intelligence, forging partnerships, and accelerating the adoption of AI solutions across critical sectors.

    Key areas of focus for submitted proposals are broad yet strategically aligned. The program actively encourages projects in fundamental AI research, including advancements in machine learning algorithms, deep learning, natural language processing, and computer vision. Furthermore, initiatives demonstrating practical AI applications in healthcare, agriculture, smart cities, manufacturing, and energy are highly sought after. Beyond technological innovation, the initiative also places strong emphasis on talent development, supporting educational programs, vocational training, and capacity-building efforts to cultivate a new generation of AI professionals.

    Proposals are expected to showcase innovative solutions, demonstrate strong collaborative potential, and outline clear pathways for impact. Universities, research institutions, private companies, tech startups, NGOs, and consortiums are all encouraged to participate. The program seeks to foster open innovation, encouraging cross-sectoral collaboration and knowledge exchange. Special emphasis will be placed on projects addressing ethical considerations in AI, ensuring responsible, transparent, and fair deployment of these powerful technologies.

    By investing heavily in its AI infrastructure and human capital, Turkey aims to position itself as a regional leader in artificial intelligence by 2026. Successful proposals will not only receive crucial support but will also play a pivotal role in contributing to a national agenda that promises to boost productivity, create high-value jobs, and enhance the overall quality of life for its citizens. This is a unique opportunity for innovators and researchers to contribute to a transformative national endeavor. Those with groundbreaking ideas and a passion for AI are urged to explore this call and join Turkey in building its intelligent future.

    This Article is Sponsored By:

    AltShift: Digital Marketer for Hire Search Engine Optimization for Hire

    RShift Marketing: Digital Marketing in Perrysburg, Ohio & Social Media Marketing in Perrysburg, Ohio


    See more articles from our network:

  • The AI Agent Revolution Collides with Data Silos: An Existential Infrastructure Crisis

    The burgeoning era of artificial intelligence agents promises a revolution in efficiency, automation, and insight for businesses across every sector. These autonomous entities, capable of perceiving environments, making decisions, and executing tasks, are poised to become the digital workforce of the future. However, a significant, often overlooked, obstacle threatens to derail this promise, transforming what once seemed like a manageable data challenge into an existential infrastructure problem: data silos.

    For decades, organizations have grappled with data trapped in disparate systems, departments, and applications. While inconvenient, this fragmentation was often considered a logistical hurdle. With the advent and proliferation of sophisticated AI agents, this issue has escalated dramatically. AI agents thrive on comprehensive, integrated data to learn, analyze, and make optimal decisions. When confronted with fragmented information, their capabilities are severely hampered, leading to incomplete insights, flawed automation, and a diminished return on AI investment. This isn’t merely a performance bottleneck; it’s an existential threat. Businesses unable to empower their AI with a holistic view of operations, customer interactions, and market trends will find themselves outmaneuvered by competitors who have successfully unified their data ecosystems.

    The “infrastructure problem” extends beyond just the data itself. It speaks to the fundamental architectural deficiencies that allow these silos to persist. Legacy systems, departmental fiefdoms, lack of standardized APIs, and insufficient data governance all contribute to an environment where data remains stubbornly isolated. Building effective AI agents in such a landscape is akin to trying to construct a skyscraper with only half the blueprints – the foundation is unstable, and the structure is incomplete. The infrastructure required for truly intelligent automation demands a cohesive, accessible, and high-quality data fabric that spans the entire enterprise.

    Addressing this challenge requires a strategic, multifaceted approach. It necessitates a significant investment in data integration tools, the adoption of modern data architectures like data lakes or data fabrics, and a commitment to robust data governance frameworks that ensure data quality, accessibility, and security. Organizations must cultivate a culture of data sharing and collaboration, breaking down the artificial barriers that have historically separated information. The goal is to create a single source of truth, or at least a highly interconnected web of truthful data, that AI agents can seamlessly navigate.

    In conclusion, the rise of AI agents is not just about adopting new technology; it’s about fundamentally re-evaluating and reconstructing an organization’s entire data infrastructure. What was once an operational inefficiency has become a critical strategic imperative. Companies that fail to dismantle their data silos and build a truly integrated data ecosystem will find their AI initiatives faltering, their competitive edge eroding, and their long-term viability increasingly precarious in an AI-powered world.

    This Article is Sponsored By:

    AltShift: Digital Marketer for Hire Search Engine Optimization for Hire

    RShift Marketing: Digital Marketing in Perrysburg, Ohio & Social Media Marketing in Perrysburg, Ohio


    See more articles from our network:

  • Unlocking AI’s True Potential: Why Your Strategy Matters More Than Ever

    In the rapidly evolving landscape of artificial intelligence, many organizations are eager to harness its transformative power. Companies are investing significantly in advanced algorithms, sophisticated machine learning models, and cutting-edge AI platforms, often celebrating the “brilliance” of these technological marvels. However, a crucial paradox is emerging: despite having incredibly capable AI tools at their disposal, many enterprises find themselves struggling to translate this potential into tangible business value. The problem often isn’t the AI itself, but rather the strategic framework—or lack thereof—guiding its deployment.

    The allure of AI can sometimes lead to a “technology-first” approach, where solutions are sought before the problems are clearly defined. This often results in isolated pilot projects, proof-of-concepts that never scale, or AI initiatives that don’t align with core business objectives. Without a robust, well-articulated strategy, AI deployments can become expensive exercises in futility, failing to integrate seamlessly into existing operations, deliver measurable ROI, or solve critical pain points. Brilliant AI, without brilliant strategy, risks remaining an impressive, yet underutilized, asset.

    A truly effective AI strategy goes far beyond simply acquiring the latest technology. It begins with a clear understanding of specific business challenges and opportunities that AI can uniquely address. This involves identifying key performance indicators (KPIs) that AI is intended to impact, assessing the readiness and quality of data required to train and sustain AI models, and planning for the necessary infrastructure and talent acquisition. Moreover, a comprehensive strategy must also consider the ethical implications of AI, ensuring fairness, transparency, and accountability are embedded from the outset.

    Key pillars of a strong AI strategy include fostering cross-functional collaboration, breaking down silos between technical teams and business units. It demands a forward-looking data governance model that ensures data quality, accessibility, and security, as data is the lifeblood of any AI system. Furthermore, organizations must invest in upskilling their workforce, preparing employees to work alongside AI and empowering them to leverage its insights. This cultural shift, combined with clear leadership vision, is paramount for successful long-term adoption.

    Ultimately, the difference between an AI experiment and an AI-driven transformation lies in the strength of its underlying strategy. It’s about moving beyond the superficial excitement of new technology and embracing a disciplined approach that aligns AI initiatives with overarching corporate goals. By meticulously planning for integration, scalability, ethical use, and continuous adaptation, businesses can ensure their brilliant AI systems are not just admired for their capability, but celebrated for their profound and lasting impact on the bottom line and operational efficiency.

    This Article is Sponsored By:

    AltShift: Digital Marketer for Hire Search Engine Optimization for Hire

    RShift Marketing: Digital Marketing in Perrysburg, Ohio & Social Media Marketing in Perrysburg, Ohio


    See more articles from our network:

  • Unlocking AI’s True Potential: The Critical Role of Strategic Implementation

    The age of artificial intelligence is undeniably upon us, transforming industries and promising unprecedented efficiencies. From sophisticated predictive analytics to advanced automation, the capabilities of modern AI systems are nothing short of brilliant. Yet, a growing number of organizations are discovering that even with cutting-edge AI technologies at their disposal, the expected revolutionary impact remains elusive. The root cause often isn’t the AI itself, but rather a fundamental flaw in the strategic approach to its adoption and integration.

    Many companies jump into AI initiatives without a clear, well-defined strategy. They might invest heavily in powerful AI tools, seduced by the hype, only to find these tools operating in silos or failing to deliver tangible business value. A brilliant AI model, without a coherent strategy, is like a high-performance engine without a vehicle; it has immense power but no direction or purpose. Common pitfalls include a lack of alignment with core business objectives, inadequate data infrastructure, insufficient stakeholder buy-in, and a failure to prepare the workforce for new AI-driven workflows.

    Effective AI strategy begins with identifying specific business problems that AI can solve, rather than simply seeking opportunities to deploy AI. It involves a meticulous assessment of data readiness – ensuring data quality, accessibility, and ethical governance. A successful strategy also necessitates a clear roadmap for integration with existing systems, fostering interoperability and seamless data flow. Furthermore, it demands a strong emphasis on human-AI collaboration, recognizing that AI should augment human capabilities, not merely replace them. Upskilling employees to work alongside AI, interpret its outputs, and manage its ethical implications is paramount.

    Organizations must also adopt a pragmatic, iterative approach. Instead of aiming for a “big bang” transformation, a phased implementation allows for learning, adjustment, and continuous improvement. Measuring ROI, defining clear KPIs, and regularly evaluating the performance of AI initiatives against strategic goals are crucial steps. Moreover, proactive consideration of ethical AI principles – ensuring fairness, transparency, and accountability – is not just a regulatory requirement but a cornerstone of sustainable, trust-building AI deployment.

    Ultimately, unlocking the full potential of your brilliant AI solutions requires more than just technological prowess; it demands a robust, forward-thinking strategy that aligns technology with business goals, prepares the workforce, manages data effectively, and prioritizes ethical considerations. Without this strategic foundation, even the most advanced AI risks becoming an underutilized asset, failing to deliver on its promise.

    This Article is Sponsored By:

    AltShift: Digital Marketer for Hire Search Engine Optimization for Hire

    RShift Marketing: Digital Marketing in Perrysburg, Ohio & Social Media Marketing in Perrysburg, Ohio


    See more articles from our network:

  • Beyond Brilliance: Why Your AI Needs a Smarter Strategy to Deliver Real Impact

    In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, artificial intelligence has moved from the realm of science fiction into a fundamental pillar of modern business operations. Organizations are investing heavily in sophisticated AI models, advanced machine learning algorithms, and cutting-edge data science teams, often achieving incredible feats of technological brilliance. Yet, despite this impressive progress on the technological front, many businesses find themselves grappling with a peculiar paradox: brilliant AI solutions that fail to translate into substantial, measurable business value.

    The issue often isn’t with the AI itself. Modern AI can analyze vast datasets, predict trends with uncanny accuracy, automate complex processes, and even generate creative content. The challenge frequently lies in the strategic scaffolding – or lack thereof – that supports these powerful tools. Without a coherent, well-articulated strategy, even the most advanced AI can become an isolated, underutilized asset, a sophisticated solution searching for a problem.

    Common strategic pitfalls include a failure to align AI initiatives with core business objectives, treating AI as a standalone project rather than an integrated component of an enterprise-wide transformation. Many companies also struggle with data strategy, finding that their brilliant algorithms are fed by fragmented, inconsistent, or low-quality data. Furthermore, neglecting the human element – the training, reskilling, and cultural shifts necessary for successful AI adoption – can undermine even the best technological implementations.

    Building a robust AI strategy means looking beyond the technology itself. It begins with clearly defining business problems and desired outcomes before selecting or developing AI solutions. A sound strategy emphasizes data governance, ensuring data quality, accessibility, and ethical usage. It also necessitates a focus on talent development, fostering a culture of continuous learning, and creating cross-functional teams that bridge the gap between technical expertise and business understanding. Ethical considerations and responsible AI deployment must be baked into the strategy from inception, not as an afterthought.

    Ultimately, the true potential of your brilliant AI is unlocked not by its raw processing power or algorithmic complexity, but by the intelligence of the strategy guiding its application. By focusing on clear objectives, robust data foundations, human enablement, and responsible governance, organizations can transform their AI investments from impressive experiments into powerful drivers of sustainable growth and competitive advantage.

    This Article is Sponsored By:

    AltShift: Digital Marketer for Hire Search Engine Optimization for Hire

    RShift Marketing: Digital Marketing in Perrysburg, Ohio & Social Media Marketing in Perrysburg, Ohio


    See more articles from our network:

  • Digital Devotion: The Rise of AI Boyfriends Among Chinese Women

    In an intriguing social shift, a growing number of women across China are opting for virtual companions, choosing sophisticated AI boyfriends over human partners. This burgeoning trend reflects a deeper societal narrative, where the promise of unconditional acceptance and unwavering emotional support offered by artificial intelligence is proving more appealing than the complexities and pressures often associated with traditional human relationships.

    For many, the allure of an AI boyfriend lies in the perfect partner ideal they embody. Unlike human men, these digital companions are designed to be perpetually understanding, non-judgmental, and available 24/7. Users frequently report a feeling of being truly seen and appreciated, echoing sentiments like, ‘Everything about me is good in his eyes.’ This stands in stark contrast to the societal expectations and relationship challenges that often lead to disappointment or emotional fatigue in real-world romantic pursuits.

    The disillusionment with human relationships stems from various factors, including the intense pressure to marry, perceived emotional unavailability of male partners, and the demanding nature of balancing traditional roles with personal aspirations. AI boyfriends, such as those powered by apps like Glow or similar platforms, offer a sanctuary where users can freely express themselves, receive constant validation, and engage in deeply personal conversations without fear of criticism or neglect. Their adaptive algorithms learn user preferences, crafting a persona that feels uniquely tailored and profoundly empathetic.

    While some might view this as a retreat from reality, for these women, AI companionship provides genuine emotional solace and an outlet for affection that might otherwise go unfulfilled. It’s a space where they control the narrative, where their needs are prioritized, and where the bond is free from the societal expectations and gender dynamics that can complicate human romantic interactions. The relationships, though virtual, are often described as deeply meaningful and impactful on their emotional well-being.

    This phenomenon raises fascinating questions about the future of companionship and the evolving definition of intimacy in an increasingly digitized world. As technology advances, blurring the lines between the real and the virtual, the preference for AI boyfriends among Chinese women serves as a compelling indicator of how rapidly our emotional landscapes are adapting to new forms of connection and support, reshaping societal norms and personal desires.

    This Article is Sponsored By:

    AltShift: Digital Marketer for Hire Search Engine Optimization for Hire

    RShift Marketing: Digital Marketing in Perrysburg, Ohio & Social Media Marketing in Perrysburg, Ohio


    See more articles from our network:

  • The AI Revolution: Unpacking Its Impact on Diverse Workforces and Shrinking Job Prospects

    The rapid evolution of artificial intelligence (AI) is undoubtedly reshaping the global labor market, prompting significant shifts in job dynamics and creating new challenges for workers across various sectors. A recent analysis, originating from institutions like the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond, highlights a particularly concerning trend: a decline in job-finding rates, especially when viewed through the lens of AI exposure and different worker types. This isn’t merely a cyclical downturn; it suggests a structural transformation influenced by technology’s pervasive reach.

    Understanding this phenomenon requires segmenting the workforce. On one end, highly skilled professionals in fields like data science, AI development, and advanced engineering are often seeing their capabilities augmented by AI, leading to increased productivity and demand for their specialized expertise. For these ‘AI-complementary’ roles, AI acts as a powerful tool, not a replacement. However, even within this group, there’s pressure to constantly upskill to remain relevant as AI capabilities advance.

    Conversely, workers engaged in routine, repetitive, or rule-based tasks are finding themselves increasingly vulnerable. Manufacturing assembly, customer service, data entry, and even some administrative roles are prime candidates for automation, where AI-powered systems can perform tasks more efficiently and at a lower cost. This ‘AI-substitutable’ segment faces the dual challenge of potential displacement and a reduced demand for their existing skill sets, directly contributing to the observed dip in job-finding rates as available positions diminish or shift significantly.

    A third category comprises creative professions and roles requiring complex social interaction, critical thinking, and nuanced judgment. While initially thought to be less susceptible, AI is beginning to make inroads even here, with tools assisting in content creation, design, and even basic legal research. The impact is more ambiguous, ranging from augmentation to a subtle erosion of entry-level opportunities as AI handles preliminary tasks.

    The decline in job-finding rates is thus a multifaceted issue, reflecting a widening skills gap, the reallocation of capital towards automation rather than human labor in certain sectors, and an evolving definition of what constitutes a ‘desirable’ skill. As businesses integrate AI, the demand for traditional roles may wane faster than new, AI-centric roles can be created and filled by the existing workforce. This necessitates a proactive approach to workforce development, emphasizing continuous learning, adaptability, and the cultivation of uniquely human skills that AI cannot replicate, such as emotional intelligence, creativity, and complex problem-solving. Failure to address these shifts could lead to persistent unemployment for certain worker demographics, exacerbating economic inequalities and challenging societal resilience in the age of intelligent machines.

    This Article is Sponsored By:

    AltShift: Digital Marketer for Hire Search Engine Optimization for Hire

    RShift Marketing: Digital Marketing in Perrysburg, Ohio & Social Media Marketing in Perrysburg, Ohio


    See more articles from our network:

  • Steve Hilton Challenges Silicon Valley Titans in Fiery California Leadership Bid

    Steve Hilton, the outspoken political commentator and former advisor, has ignited a political firestorm in California, launching a pointed assault on the state’s dominant artificial intelligence industry leaders as he vies for a key leadership position. In a move that signals a confrontational campaign strategy, Hilton didn’t mince words, accusing Silicon Valley’s tech magnates of fostering an environment ripe with ethical dilemmas, unchecked power, and the looming threat of widespread job displacement.

    Hilton’s criticism is particularly potent given California’s status as the undisputed global epicenter of AI innovation. His decision to directly challenge the state’s most powerful economic and technological forces highlights a strategic pivot, aiming to tap into a growing public skepticism regarding the rapid advancement of AI without corresponding regulatory frameworks or societal safeguards. He frames his campaign as a bulwark against the perceived arrogance and insularity of tech elites, positioning himself as a champion for the working families and small businesses he claims are vulnerable to the disruptive forces unleashed by unregulated artificial intelligence.

    During recent appearances, Hilton articulated concerns about the concentration of power in a handful of tech corporations, arguing that the unchecked development of AI could exacerbate economic inequality and undermine democratic principles. He called for greater accountability from AI companies, proposing more robust governmental oversight and proactive measures to retrain workers whose jobs are at risk from automation. This stance marks a significant departure from the often tech-friendly rhetoric prevalent in California politics, suggesting a desire to shake up the established order.

    Political analysts are watching closely to see how Hilton’s anti-establishment, anti-big tech message resonates with California’s diverse electorate. While Silicon Valley remains a powerful economic engine, there is a palpable undercurrent of anxiety among some voters about the societal implications of AI, from privacy concerns to the future of work. Hilton appears to be betting that these concerns are widespread enough to form a credible political base, allowing him to carve out a distinct identity in a crowded political landscape.

    By taking aim at the very heart of California’s economic might, Steve Hilton is not merely engaging in political rhetoric; he is laying down a gauntlet. His campaign promises to be a fascinating test of whether a populist message, critical of the tech industry’s rapid ascent, can gain traction in the state that birthed it. The battle lines are drawn, and the future of AI regulation, economic equity, and technological accountability could well become central themes in California’s upcoming political contests, setting a precedent for national debates.

    This Article is Sponsored By:

    AltShift: Digital Marketer for Hire Search Engine Optimization for Hire

    RShift Marketing: Digital Marketing in Perrysburg, Ohio & Social Media Marketing in Perrysburg, Ohio


    See more articles from our network:

  • AI’s Shadow Over Midterms: Navigating the New Frontier of Political Influence

    As midterm elections approach, the role of artificial intelligence in shaping political landscapes is becoming increasingly sophisticated and, at times, unsettling. What was once the realm of simple bots and basic data analysis has evolved into a powerful tool capable of influencing public opinion, crafting highly targeted messages, and even generating persuasive, synthetic content. This leap in AI capabilities marks a significant shift in how political campaigns operate, presenting both unprecedented efficiencies and formidable ethical challenges.

    Political strategists are leveraging advanced AI algorithms to dissect vast amounts of voter data with unparalleled precision. This allows for hyper-personalized outreach, where campaign messages are tailored to individual demographics, psychological profiles, and even specific online behaviors. AI can predict voter sentiment, identify swing voters, and determine the most effective communication channels and times, optimizing resource allocation and maximizing message impact. From crafting compelling speeches to designing social media campaigns, AI is rapidly becoming an indispensable, albeit unseen, member of campaign teams.

    However, this technological advancement comes with a dark undercurrent. The rise of sophisticated generative AI models has opened the door to the widespread creation of deepfakes and AI-generated text that is nearly indistinguishable from human-created content. These tools can be employed to spread misinformation, fabricate compromising scenarios involving candidates, or create entirely false narratives designed to sway public perception. The speed and scale at which such content can proliferate across digital platforms pose an immense threat to electoral integrity, making it increasingly difficult for citizens to discern truth from sophisticated deception.

    The implications for democratic processes, particularly in high-stakes midterm elections, are profound. AI’s capacity to micro-target vulnerable populations with tailored disinformation campaigns could erode public trust in institutions and the media, leading to voter apathy or manipulation. The very foundation of informed decision-making by the electorate is challenged when the information ecosystem is polluted with highly convincing, yet entirely fabricated, content designed to serve partisan agendas.

    Addressing this evolving threat requires a multi-faceted approach. There’s an urgent need for greater transparency from political campaigns regarding their use of AI, robust fact-checking mechanisms, and enhanced media literacy education for voters. Regulators and tech companies must also collaborate to develop safeguards against malicious AI applications, potentially including digital watermarks or authenticity indicators for AI-generated content. As AI continues to get smarter, so too must our collective efforts to protect the integrity of our elections and the bedrock of democratic discourse.

    This Article is Sponsored By:

    AltShift: Digital Marketer for Hire Search Engine Optimization for Hire

    RShift Marketing: Digital Marketing in Perrysburg, Ohio & Social Media Marketing in Perrysburg, Ohio


    See more articles from our network:

  • Tomorrow’s Architects: Students Unveil AI Innovations Shaping Our Future

    A new wave of innovation is sweeping through educational institutions as students across the globe dive deep into the fascinating realm of artificial intelligence. These young minds are not just learning about AI; they are actively building it, transforming theoretical concepts into tangible projects that promise to reshape our world in profound ways. From high school hackathons to university research labs, the energy is palpable as students showcase their remarkable AI creations, demonstrating a unique blend of technical prowess and imaginative foresight.

    What makes these student showcases so compelling is the sheer diversity and ambition of their projects. Imagine AI-powered applications designed to diagnose early signs of disease, environmental monitoring systems leveraging machine learning to predict natural disasters, or intelligent tutors personalizing education for every learner. Students are also exploring creative frontiers, developing AI that can compose music, generate art, or even assist in storytelling. These projects are not mere academic exercises; they represent thoughtful solutions to real-world problems, tackling challenges in healthcare, sustainability, education, and beyond.

    Beyond the technical ingenuity, these experiences foster a crucial set of skills essential for the 21st century. Students are learning complex coding languages, understanding intricate algorithms, and grappling with data analysis. More importantly, they are developing critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and an acute awareness of the ethical implications of AI. They engage in collaborative teamwork, refine their presentation skills, and learn to iterate and improve their designs, embodying the spirit of true innovation.

    The impact of these young innovators cannot be overstated. By immersing themselves in AI development, they are not merely adapting to the future; they are actively designing it. Their projects serve as early blueprints for technologies that could one day become indispensable, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible and challenging conventional wisdom. Educators and mentors play a vital role in nurturing this environment, providing resources, guidance, and the freedom to experiment, allowing students to explore their wildest ideas without fear of failure.

    As these students stand proudly beside their AI creations, explaining their methodologies and articulating their visions, they are offering more than just a presentation; they are providing a glimpse into a future molded by curiosity, intelligence, and a profound desire to make a difference. Their work underscores a powerful truth: the next generation is not waiting for the future to arrive; they are building it, one intelligent algorithm at a time, promising a world that is not only smarter but also more connected and humane.

    This Article is Sponsored By:

    AltShift: Digital Marketer for Hire Search Engine Optimization for Hire

    RShift Marketing: Digital Marketing in Perrysburg, Ohio & Social Media Marketing in Perrysburg, Ohio


    See more articles from our network: