• Fashion & Beauty

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

September 28, 2023

Cincinnati-Based BlaCk OWned Secures Licensing Deal With University Of Cincinnati For Exclusive Apparel Line

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An apparel company rooted in Cincinnati, drawing inspiration from the founders’ upbringing in Cincinnati’s urban neighborhoods and his collegiate experience at a predominantly white university, is having a full-circle moment after securing a licensing partnership with the University of Cincinnati.

Cameron Means launched his apparel company BlaCk OWned in Cincinnati in 2011. With love for his city in mind, Means discovered that “BlackOwned energy” is needed in all communities across America.

“Our brand thrives at the intersection of Fashion and Black Excellence,” Means says.

“Our Mission is to promote Black Ownership while challenging societal inequities through our garments and storytelling,” states the website.

Early this month, BlaCk OWned Outerwear and the University of Cincinnati announced a partnership that gives BlaCk OWned the rights to produce unique apparel with the University’s brand for sale to the Cincinnati community. The five-piece collegiate collection includes a varsity jacket, a varsity crew neck sweatshirt, a jogger/short combo, and two graphic T-shirts.

 

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The items are coming just in time for the University of Cincinnati’s homecoming next month and align with Means’ vision for the Black community.

‘Since 2011 BlaCk OWned has been a vision board for the Black Cincinnati community,’ he TELLS BLACK ENTERPRISE. ‘We didn’t just tell people Black businesses were essential, we want to show them, even remind them.’

Located in the heart of Cincinnati’s downtown district on 822 Elm Street, BlaCk OWned is proof of how serving as a resource to your community builds security within the culture.

“With a name like BlaCk OWned, there’s no holding back. It’s progressive,” Means shares. “As a result, we have become a big part of the weaving in that the Black community is establishing in Cincinnati.”

Now, with the University of Cincinnati behind him, Means is ready to expand his brand’s reach and show the world that ownership is an option for the Black community. With a five-year deal in place, Means notes the time he has to perfect a collection he already believes is some of his best work yet.

‘From a design standpoint we are preparing to deliver our best capsule yet,’ Means declared.

“What makes this partnership unique is that it’s a five-year partnership which allows us to build on the opportunity for years to come,” Means says.

Major brand partnerships are nothing new for BlaCk OWned. The brand has secured licensing deals with the Cincinnati Bengals, FC Cincinnati, BET, and now The University of Cincinnati.

 

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With Means being all about pouring into the Black community, he offers some advice to other entrepreneurs looking to scale in partnerships.

‘Relationships are important to have, and don’t be afraid to ask,’ he says. ‘We’re in business to take risks and asking is usually the lesser of all risks.’

“It’s also important to go to the company you would like to collaborate with a plan. Show them that you are capable of producing a quality project using your resources that will add value to their brand and yours. It could also be beneficial to get a few scaling businesses on the résumé before going for a big brand name. Once you have the contract, always deliver,” says Means.

Meanwhile, the University of Cincinnati is expressing its pride and excitement with the partnership and how it will connect with the local community in new ways.

“We are very intentional in the companies we grant a license to manufacture and distribute products with the University’s brand, and this is a unique opportunity to work with a local company that produces high-quality apparel with unique designs inspired to connect with the community and celebrate their pride and passion for Cincinnati,” Martin Ludwig, associate vice president for Trademark Licensing at the University of Cincinnati said.

RELATED CONTENT: Urban Outfitters Celebrates Black Influence, History and Culture With Exclusive Collections and Initiatives in Honor of Black History MonthCincinnati

• Sports

by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

September 28, 2023

Deion Sanders Brings The A-List To Boulder: LeBron James, Jay-Z, Lil Wayne Expected To Attend Colorado-USC Football Matchup

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The excitement that Deion “Coach Prime” Sanders has brought to the University of Colorado Boulder has led to sold-out crowds at the school’s football games, as the team currently has a 3-1 record. Compare this to last season when the Buffaloes only won one game.

Word has gotten out that the next game, against the University of Southern California in Boulder, Colorado, will have some very big names attending the game.

According to Buffs Beat, the stars will be aligned at Folsom Field, home of the Buffaloes, on Saturday, Sept. 30. The fifth-ranked Trojans will be coming to town with last season’s Heisman Award winner, USC’s quarterback Caleb Williams. Expected to witness Williams’ matchup against the opposing quarterback, Shedeur Sanders, are LeBron James, Jay-Z, Lil Wayne, and Matthew McConaughey.

The Buffaloes are coming off their first loss of the season as Oregon smacked them around to 42-6. Meanwhile, the undefeated USC just defeated Arizona State 42-28.

The excitement that Sanders has brought with his energy and the players he selected for the team has been a television ratings bonanza. According to Sports Media Watch, out of the most-watched college football games this season, every game the Buffaloes have played has ranked among the top 10.

The celebrities have drawn interest in the team not only because the games have been exciting but also because Coach Prime, an NFL Hall of Famer, former reality TV star, and celebrity spokesperson, has many famous friends.

Yet, there may be another reason why Los Angeles Lakers superstar James will be at the stadium. His son and namesake, also known as Bronny, is a basketball player for the USC Trojans. Although he has been recovering from a cardiac arrest this past summer, he attends the school as an incoming freshman. He will be returning to the basketball court during the season, although no timetable has been publicly set.

RELATED CONTENT: To Date, Deion Sanders Has Generated Over $90M For The University Of Colorado Boulder

• Diversity, Equality, Inclusion

by BLACK ENTERPRISE Editors

September 28, 2023

RealOnes App: Highlighting BIPOC Businesses Across The World

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RealOnes, a groundbreaking GPS app, has emerged as a leading platform for connecting individuals with Black, Indigenous, and allied businesses.

Beyond functioning as a directory, this free app, developed by IT expert and Global Black Alliance owner Joe Harry, allows companies to promote their products and services while simplifying identifying one’s roots and community.

Torontoguardian.com reported users can seamlessly filter their search based on their country of origin, peruse various favorite restaurants, contractors, podcasters, and music venues, or plan their ideal vacation spots. RealOnes has significantly impacted the Greater Toronto Area, where it was founded. 

Harry highlighted the core mission of his community-focused organization, the Global Black Alliance Inc.: “The goal is to be a global movement centered around the Black experience and committed to allyship.”

He underlined how RealOnes is altering the landscape for Black-owned businesses and their allies, making it easier for customers to support local businesses: “RealOnes was born out of necessity. Finding Black-owned businesses and true allies in our community was a real challenge with fragmented information all over the internet. We decided that it was necessary to build one place for all industries, businesses, races, and faiths so that customers can start looking there.”

According to the outlet,  the app currently boasts 190 registered businesses spanning nine countries, with Harry investing over $100,000 to offer this solution for free. Harry envisions RealOnes becoming a household name, with millions of users and businesses collaborating globally. While initially focused on Toronto, the long-term goal is to expand to hub cities worldwide.

The Global Black Alliance is dedicated to promoting global equity and investing in underserved communities. RealOnes is designed to foster connections between communities in an accessible, equitable, and high-quality manner. 

In the article, Harry elaborated on the app’s distinctive features.

“The Flag Feature is the most distinct, where a business can display its cultural roots right on its profile for customers to see. Through the Curated Lists feature, users can make lists of their favorite businesses and subscribe to their notifications, alerts, and announcements. Business owners can also gain insights on user interactions with their profile.”

RealOnes goes beyond being a directory, by allowing users to search for various types of businesses, including Black women-owned and ally-owned businesses. Featured companies on the app include St. Skin Tones Beauty, byTRIS, Blessinglicious, Art on a Tuesday, UPlift Black, and many others.

According to the article, Harry often expresses his gratitude for his project’s recognition, such as being featured as “Entrepreneur of the Month” in the Black Business Professional Association’s August newsletter. 

RealOnes GPS is not just an app; it’s part of a movement aimed at uplifting and empowering local businesses and communities. Whether in your neighborhood or anywhere in the world, this interactive, location-based mobile app promises to help you find and support your community. 

• Arts and Culture

by BLACK ENTERPRISE Editors

September 28, 2023

Clark Atlanta University’s Department Of Art And Fashion Scholars Selected For Fulton County’s FACE Program In Paris

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Two Clark Atlanta University (CAU) Department of Art and Fashion students were selected for the Fulton County Fashion Art Culture & Education (FACE) initiative in Paris.

Presented by Noir for the Global Master Class as part of the Paris Experience, this initiative is a collaboration with Fulton County’s FACE program and CAU’s Department of Art and Fashion.

This new initiative highlights resources in the arts and fashion industry and provides an innovative experience that bridges the gap between fashion, art, culture, and education.

“What an exciting opportunity for our Art and Fashion students, Amari Franklin and Ficara Akins, as they head to Paris for an amazing 10-day educational experience ending with a look at Paris Fashion Week,” said Professor BJ Arnett, chair of the art and fashion department and special assistant to the dean of arts and sciences.

“There are so many reasons why these two women were selected. They are both talented and are examples of resilience and tenacity in their fields. This unforgettable experience stands to be an amazing educational and artistic experience for our students due to the partnership between Clark Atlanta University and FACE.”

CAU’s Franklin, a senior majoring in fashion design, and Akins, a sophomore and advertising design major minoring in fashion merchandising, learned of the Paris Experience initiative by e-mail. The application process included submitting letters of recommendation and completing a quick fashion collection. This will be the first trip to Paris for both scholars, and they are excited about sharing this memorable and creative opportunity and the international art, fashion, and cultural experiences it will offer.

Franklin looks forward to visiting Parisian thrift stores and vintage boutiques to find clothing that complements her sustainability aesthetic and taste, and to meeting and working with fashion leaders. Akins plans to soak up the logistics of the fashion show to study the business side and artistry that goes into it, which will help her pursue her dream in advertising design and fashion merchandising once she graduates from CAU.

Franklin and Akins will have an opportunity to gain insight into the fashion industry through a hands-on field experience where they visit design houses and manufacturers and immerse themselves in all things art and fashion during the week-and-a-half-long tour.

Additionally, guided by the Noir organization out of New York with CEO Nicole Bess, they will work with designers during Noir Fashion Week, an organization committed to providing BIPOC creative talent and fashion brand opportunities through cultivation and showcasing. The two student fashion scholars may also have a chance to share their fashion collections with the public during one of Noir’s fashion shows.

• Media

by BLACK ENTERPRISE Editors

September 28, 2023

New Study: Black Americans Express Concerns Over Media Depictions

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In a comprehensive study conducted by the Pew Research Center, Black Americans have voiced significant concerns about the portrayal of their communities in the media, highlighting issues of racism, negative depictions, and a lack of comprehensive coverage. 

According to The Seattle Times, the survey, conducted three years after George Floyd’s killing, provides insights into Black attitudes toward the media, and the findings reveal an urgent need for more inclusive and nuanced reporting.

The study, which surveyed nearly 5,000 Black adults this past winter and conducted follow-up focus groups, paints a disheartening picture of how many Black Americans perceive their portrayal in the news media. A striking four in five Black adults claim to regularly witness racist or racially insensitive depictions of their race in the news. 

This troubling statistic underscores the persistence of racial biases within the industry. Unpacking the survey’s results, 63% of respondents believed that news stories about Black people are often more damaging than stories about other racial or ethnic groups. A smaller percentage, 28%, felt that such coverage was about equal in its portrayal.

According to the article, Charles Whitaker, dean of the Medill journalism school at Northwestern University, commented on these findings, noting that dissatisfaction among Black Americans regarding their media portrayal is far from surprising. He emphasized that Black Americans often find themselves reduced to simplistic roles as either perpetrators or victims of crime in news stories, with little room for the complexity and nuance that should accompany those stories.

The Pew study also revealed that 57% of respondents felt that the media selectively covers certain segments of Black communities, while only 9% believe that various perspectives are depicted. This observation calls for deeper inclusivity and representation within newsrooms to ensure that the full spectrum of Black experiences is authentically portrayed.

The article shares that one possible solution, as suggested by Richard Prince, a columnist for the Journal-isms newsletter, is to provide more context in news coverage. He believes that the media should recognize that Black people, like everyone else, have a range of concerns beyond just those related to African-American issues. Prince pointed out that advertising often better depicts Black people in everyday situations, such as raising families or deciding where to dine, and urges the news industry to follow suit.

Surprisingly, the study found slight variations in attitudes toward news coverage between Black Democrats and Republicans, indicating that this issue transcends partisan divides. Negative attitudes about media portrayals tend to increase with higher income and education levels. For instance, 57% of lower-income respondents believed that news coverage about Black people was more negative than that of other groups, while this number rose to 75% among wealthier respondents.

The article states that despite the desire for change, most of those surveyed, regardless of age, expressed limited confidence that significant improvements would occur in their lifetime. The study highlighted the urgent need for media organizations to address these concerns and work toward a more inclusive and representative approach to reporting.

As the journalism landscape evolves, educators at institutions like Northwestern University emphasize the importance of understanding the communities they cover, moving away from “parachute journalism” and towards a more informed and connected approach. Additionally, the industry has seen progress in hiring Black journalists into leadership roles; however, challenges remain.

This article was written by Black Enterprise contributor Rafael Pena.

Sunny Hostin called out her son’s “manipulative” ex-girlfriend, who read Hostin’s memoir in an effort to get close to her.

The ladies of “The View” were discussing Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s budding romance, which has been the talk of the town after the pop star attended the Kansas City Chiefs game on Sept. 24. Swift was spotted spending time with Kelce’s mom, Donna, which Hostin suggested wasn’t a good move.

It appeared to be a personal issue for Hostin, who recalled dealing with her 21-year-old son Gabriel’s “manipulative” ex-girlfriend, who read the memoir Hostin released in 2020, Daily Mail reports.

“I’m not as concerned about this, I think it’s a move that’s been going on for a long time and, like, you get closer to mom and then like the guy will like you,” Hostin said.

“My son’s girlfriends try to do that with me… I see right through it,” she continued.

“With one girl, I said to my son, ‘Ask her what she reads, because you read The Art of War for fun, so you want to have someone intellectually stimulates you…’ and she’s like, ‘I just read your mother’s memoir.'”

When co-host Joy Behar applauded Gabriel’s ex for being a “smart girl,” Hostin fired back and called the ex “manipulative.” Behar asked if Hostin was slightly impressed by the ex reading her memoir, which prompted a more honest response from the lawyer.

“I didn’t like her. I thought it was manipulative,” Hostin said.

She elaborated: “I can’t say trying to get close to the mom is a great move. Let him introduce you to his mom. Let him fall in love with you and then make the introduction.”

The mother of two says her son is now more aware of just who he can bring home, as she seems to notice everything.

“My son brings them home, and he knows me! I don’t get it!” she added.

Hostin and her husband, Emmanuel Hostin, are parents to Gabriel and their daughter, Paloma. It’s clear from her comments that the Hostin kids can’t bring just anyone home to meet their mom.

RELATED CONTENT: Sunny Hostin Responds to Accusations That her Son Got Into Harvard Because She Bought a Building

“Nobody is spending 3-plus million dollars to fight someone on a nonprofit organization if there’s not more to the story,” Kimberly Bryant cautioned a full room of attendees at BLACK ENTERPRISE’s Women of Power TECH Summit.

BE hosted its first-ever in-person tech conference for women, on Sep. 27. The empowering event, presented by Fidelity, MERCK, Salesforce, and Walmart, brought together power professionals and fearless founders for informative panel discussions, candid conversations, and unique networking and recruiting opportunities.

Bryant, founder of Black Innovation Lab and Black Girls Code, opened the first round of panel discussions with her past experiences. She shared some mistakes and lessons learned during her grueling fight with the company she spent more than 10 years building and expanding.

“It is very important to be very cautious and intentional about who you put in your closest circles,” Bryant said firmly. “We’re so ingrained in this white supremacist culture, we [sometimes] use the master’s tools against each other. We need to call that out and then stand up when we see it.”

The Cautionary Tale

Bryant founded BGC in 2011. During the 2020 protests, the ambitious entrepreneur said her organization received millions of dollars in donations, and its staff expanded. But it wasn’t without cultural friction and intergenerational differences at that uncertain time.

In 2022, Bryant found out that her board had suspended her indefinitely and was subsequently removed as CEO and board member. What’s worse? This all occurred without her having a CEO contract in place. The news prompted the former executive to spill the beans on her firing. She broke down the results of her removal, cited the law, and noted that she could be a victim of retaliation.

“The people on your board should be people you trust explicitly,” Bryant said. “You need someone who is going to be ride or die in that room.”

As a result, Bryant filed a lawsuit against them. She told the audience that the battle ended with her and her suit reaching a settlement. But the last two years were learning lessons for her. From a founder’s perspective, she made it clear that it is impossible to avoid the fire. On the other side, she has grown and discovered gems along the way.

“This baby [BGC] was not everything that I am, and I still have more to give,” Bryant declared. She is proud to have been called back home to Memphis, Tennessee, and build an accelerator dedicated to supporting socially and economically disadvantaged founders.

Though the legal battles were mentally and financially taxing, Bryant said, “I was acutely aware that my daughter was looking at me.” As a fearless mother, she was also aware that other young girls and women within and outside the organization were also watching. “I had to navigate the storm to show them that they can make it through.”

“When there is an injustice, it is important that we stand up,” Bryant said.

Lessons Learned

Be intentional about who you bring in your inner circle.

As a startup founder, the people you choose to occupy your board now have control. They have agency that can take things away from you as a founder. You need to build and keep the circle as tight as possible.

Protect your intellectual property and legacy.

Bryant explained that everything doesn’t have to be in your company name. Logos, trademarks, and how you run your business can belong to you.

Invest in a firm legal team.

As you navigate your business, the right legal team can prevent you from mistakes you’ve missed or mechanisms you are unaware of. Bryant said the investment in a legal team may be your biggest expense, but it could cost you the most if you don’t invest in the best.

RELATED CONTENT:  ‘ Sounds Like Retaliation’ Former Black Girl Code CEO Kimberly Bryant Speaks Out Against NonProfit

• Sports

by BLACK ENTERPRISE Editors

September 28, 2023

Damian Lillard Joins Milwaukee Bucks In Blockbuster Trade

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Damian Lillard is gearing up for a new chapter in his illustrious career as he joins the Milwaukee Bucks in a blockbuster trade that has sent shockwaves through the NBA.

Lillard, an iconic figure in the league, expressed his excitement about the upcoming move to Milwaukee and the opportunity to play alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo.

The trade announcement arrived swiftly, leaving fans and experts buzzing with anticipation. Lillard’s departure from the Portland Trail Blazers marks the end of an era, as he was undoubtedly their best player, and his contributions to the team over the years have been nothing short of exceptional.

According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, this complex three-team deal involves the Portland Trail Blazers, Milwaukee Bucks, and the Phoenix Suns. The Bucks will gain Lillard, undeniably a game-changer, while the Blazers will receive Jrue Holiday, Deandre Ayton, Toumani Camara, and Milwaukee’s 2029 unprotected first-round pick as part of the trade. The Suns, on the other hand, are set to acquire Jusuf Nurkic, Grayson Allen, Nassir Little, and Keon Johnson in this multifaceted exchange.

Lillard’s trade request earlier in 2023 set the stage for this pivotal moment in his career. After dedicating 11 seasons to the Trail Blazers, the 33-year-old All-Star expressed his readiness for a fresh start and a change of scenery. During that time, several NBA teams, including the Miami Heat, the Toronto Raptors, the Philadelphia 76ers, the Chicago Bulls, the Boston Celtics, and the Brooklyn Nets expressed interest in securing Lillard’s talents.

The Milwaukee Bucks, who won the NBA championship in 2021, now add a proven superstar to their roster. Lillard’s impressive career statistics, including an average of 25.2 points, 6.7 assists, and 4.2 rebounds per game, highlight his invaluable contribution to any team.

As the high-profile trade unfolds, NBA fans and analysts alike eagerly await the synergy between Lillard and Antetokounmpo. According to ESPN, this pairing could potentially reshape the league’s competitive landscape. The union of the two dynamic players is set to create a formidable duo that’s drawing comparisons to Batman and Robin, where Lillard assumes the role of the latter, ready to complement Antetokounmpo’s powerhouse style of play.

In the coming days, ESPN says Lillard has promised to address his beloved fans and the city of Portland, where he leaves an indelible mark. While this chapter of his career comes to a close, a new one begins in Milwaukee, and the excitement in the NBA community is palpable. The City of Festivals is now poised to welcome a new basketball sensation, and Lillard’s journey with the Milwaukee Bucks promises to be nothing short of thrilling.

This article was written by Black Enterprise Contributor Rafael Pena.

• Health and Wellness

by Stacy Jackson

September 28, 2023

40+ Double Dutch Club: Empowering Women Through Nostalgia And Fitness

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The women of the 40+ Double Dutch Club are keeping the childhood game alive through their 40-years-and- over program.

The club, founded by friends Pamela and Katrina, was established to empower women in their mental health journey through physical fitness, fun, and fellowship. 

“We are a group of women over the age of 40 who get together to take a break from ‘adulting’ by jumping Double Dutch, hula hooping, playing hopscotch and Chinese rope,” the 40+ Double Dutch Club website states. “We envision communities where women can live out their purpose as they walk in mental and physical health, encouraging and empowering themselves and other women over 40 while inspiring generations to come!” As part of its mission, “We believe all women can embrace who they are, can define their future, and can change the world.”

 

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A post shared by Pamela Robinson (@40plus_doubledutchclub)

Official members of the nonprofit organization receive access to perks such as personalized gear, loyalty points, early access to events, discount codes, and acceptance into the 40+ Bday Club. Membership includes financial assistance and support for those who are experiencing emotional, spiritual, and/or financial challenges.

No sisters are left behind according to the club, which spreads its double Dutch movement from state to state through “Subclubs.” Women can use the National Subclub directory to find a meetup near their location.

Join the 40+ Double Dutch Club for its West Coast Big Jump event on Nov. 3-5, 2023, at Sahuaro Ranch Park in Glendale, Arizona. Club leaders are also invited to register for the 2024 exclusive leadership training that will be hosted in Chicago Aug. 28-30. Training sessions will cover leadership skills and performance, health and wellness, and mission and vision. Attendees can also participate in the club’s National Prayer Walk.

Stay up to date and connect with club members through social media.

RELATED CONTENT: 8 Black-Owned Fitness Brands To Launch Your Goals In 2023

• News

by Sharelle Burt

September 28, 2023

Ghost Guns And 3D Printer Found In Unlocked Room at East Harlem Daycare Center

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Three people were arrested after NYPD raided a “ghost gun” operation at a daycare in East Harlem, NBC 4 reported.

On Sept. 27, Karon Coley, 18, was arrested and charged after police seized multiple guns in an unlocked room, including two completed 3D-printed guns and an assault pistol that was almost finished. Police also found the 3D printer, printing tools, plastic filament, and more – not far from where little children ate, slept, and had lessons.

According to Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, Coley was charged with possession of illegal firearms, manufacturing an assault weapon, and acting in a manner injurious to a child. Two other underage teenagers were also arrested for having a connection with the operation. Coley allegedly ran the operation inside the apartment’s bedroom, where his mother operated the daycare.

According to NYC’s Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, the daycare center was inspected in February 2023, finding violations regarding feeding documentation, sleep schedules, family preferences, and doctor verifications. They took corrective action after being cited and were then verified that their paperwork was completed. As of Sept. 27, the daycare was closed.

The  discovery comes after the NYPD Intelligence Bureau issued an investigation, finding the ghost gun part purchases were made online with stolen credit cards.

“Some of the purchases were made through fraudulent means, including the alleged identity theft of multiple victims across the United States,” NYPD Deputy Commissioner of Intelligence and Counterterrorism Rebecca Weiner said, according to ABC News.