How Viacom Velocity Redefined Partnerships for the ‘Kids’ Choice Awards’

ViacomCBS’ in-house branded content studio partnered with Mattel and MilkPEP to air culturally conscious campaigns.

Nickelodeon’s 33rd annual Kids’ Choice Awards looked different from previous shows. The show shifted from a traditional awards ceremony filmed in front of kids, families, and celebs alike, to one that was produced remotely with virtual celebrity cameos and at-home musical performances. In another mark of nimble production, it featured commercial creative that reflected the new normal during coronavirus.

The COVID-19 crisis has caused a mass shuffle in TV advertising that’s required brand marketers to sidestep their current ad campaigns to make room for culturally sensitive content with updated messaging. When it was announced in April that the KCAs would air in early May, following being postponed from March, Viacom Velocity quickly approached the show’s sponsors with strategies to update their campaigns, where necessary, enabling the brands to continue to support the show and promote their messages.

“Everything about this year’s Kids’ Choice Awards was focused on providing an entertaining experience for kids and families in the comfort of their own homes, from the homes of all their favorite celebrities and heroes. It was much more intimate, since we were adhering to social distancing guidelines, but also lighthearted and relatable for our fans,” says April L McKenzie, Vice President (VP) of Activation at Velocity. “Our advertisers wanted to ensure their campaigns provided maximum impact while aligning with the current reality. We worked swiftly to reimagine the content and adjust any creative developed for the original live show that was planned for March.”

"Together, with our partners, we were able to move quickly to deliver amazing creative with timely messages" - Lisa Bull, VP of Activation at Velocity

For Velocity, the work is indicative of the remote production that’s become their new normal. The studio remains fully operational, with creative and production teams working collaboratively to find creative ways to create and distribute content.

Among the partners who updated their campaigns were Mattel Barbie and Milk Processor Education Program (MilkPEP). George Sholley, VP of Production at Velocity, shared, “Working with each brand, we were able to edit some of the shots or add in new pieces of content to ensure the creative reflected the present day situation, while maintaining their core messages.”

“We’re nimble by nature,” explains Lisa Bull, VP of Activation at Velocity. “For Barbie and MilkPEP specifically, we needed to adjust the creative to reflect the current environment for our audience. Together, with our partners, we were able to move quickly to deliver amazing creative with timely messages.”

Updated Action Shots for MilkPEP

MilkPEP worked with Velocity to create a custom campaign that included 2-minute and 30-second cuts. Filmed in February, they featured Olympic-hopeful skateboarder Bryce Wettstein performing choreographed tricks and dance moves with kid-dancers and professional BMX riders at a skate park.

“Less than a month ago, you wouldn’t have to think twice about creating and airing an ad that showed kids skateboarding together and having fun. But, times have clearly changed,” explains Justin Kovics, VP and Group Creative Director at Velocity. “We had to ensure the message our partners wanted to express wasn’t tone deaf in the current climate of social distancing, especially because kids are a huge part of the Kids’ Choice Awards’ audience.”

Velocity re-cut the original spots, weaving together a series of single-person shots to replace the group scenes. The final moments of the ad encouraged viewers, “Wherever you are, whatever you do…milk it.”


“We are grateful for our partnership with Nickelodeon and agency Campbell Ewald,” said MilkPEP CEO Yin Woon Rani. “We were impressed with how quickly we could make changes to the spot to reflect social distancing and represent a positive example of how to reflect that behavior to this important audience.”

A Custom Message to Fans for Mattel

Prior to COVID-19, the in-house branded content studio created custom content for Mattel Barbie®. The initial creative centered on a young girl, showcasing her talents, and featured a group of kids dancing together to a performance by 13-year-old DJ Livia.

Given that schools are currently closed and social distancing measures are in place, the content had the potential to be confusing or alarming to kids. So, Velocity used remote capture to record a message from DJ Livia in which she explained that the footage was shot previously and encouraged her fans to stay indoors.

“We’re using music to remind girls that they can be anything,” DJ Livia says in the video. She then went on to remind fans that “play is never canceled.”


“We were really able to lean in and leverage the power of DJ Livia as an influencer and a real girl realizing her passion, to send a positive message to audiences tuning into the awards show, while also making sure the brand’s original message didn’t get lost,” says Jared Elliott, VP and Group Creative Director at Velocity.

According to Mattel, the updated creative enabled the brand to reinforce its message at a critical time. “The Barbie brand believes in play, even during these difficult times,” says Aimee London, Senior Director of Marketing at Mattel. “Working with DJ Livia to pivot our approach by celebrating at home, allowed us to show girls they can be anything, while also celebrating imagination and social connection.”

As brands continue to adjust to the “new normal” caused by coronavirus, Velocity continues to find creative ways to adapt and connect with audiences—even when they can’t be in the same room together. From remote production capabilities, to crafting relevant and meaningful content on the fly, the creative team continues to bring brand ideas into being.

“The shop is not closed by any stretch of the imagination,” says Sholley. “We are able to make things happen remotely, and we are especially well-equipped for this moment.”

More Nick: Highlights From 'Nickelodeon’s Kids’ Choice Awards 2020: Celebrate Together' Special!

---

Follow NickALive! on Twitter, Tumblr, Reddit, via RSS, on Instagram, and/or Facebook for the latest Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards 2020 News and Highlights!

How ViacomCBS' Velocity Found Opportunity in Remote Production

Via the ViacomCBS Newsroom:

HOW VIACOMCBS’ VELOCITY FOUND OPPORTUNITY IN REMOTE PRODUCTION

Creative casting, agile messaging, and remote editing services have kept the in-house creative agency busier than ever.

By Beth Trentacoste, Senior Vice President (SVP) and Head of Creative & Production at Viacom Velocity, a full-service in-house creative advertising and branded content studio.

Creative studios are used to navigating challenges—like tight timelines, limited budgets, or in a very specific case—how do we make this witch character float?—when producing content for partners. We love a creative challenge. We like the chance to be scrappy. We relish the chance to use our creative muscles to, quite simply, make it work. And despite the unprecedented limitations caused by the coronavirus, we are doing just that.

At Velocity, ViacomCBS’ in-house marketing and creative content studio, we needed to adapt to a new way of working to deliver for our clients. We set up our entire creative and production teams —staffed with writers, editors, directors, producers, motion designers, and art directors – to work remotely. We got creative, finding ways to produce spots that could be in-market immediately, some in less than 24 hours. We operationalized a new shooting process, edited existing work to ensure it’s appropriate to the current cultural climate, and in some cases, cast our families in spots. We also gave advertisers the opportunity to amplify a powerful message in our portfolio-wide PSA campaigns.

We started to explore options for remote capture and self-capture on Day 1, looking at everything from drop kits, Zoom, iPhones, and remote editing tools, to test creative concepts and produce new spots. After a series of tests and proof-of-concept shoots, we launched a remote capture playbook with best practices for talent and producers. This ensures that our entire team, our talent, and our clients are up-to-speed on all the ways we can create and distribute content remotely. It also empowers everyone to be a producer; I used the playbook myself to capture footage in my house from a shot-list created by one of our in-house directors.

Adjusting In-Market Messages

In the first few weeks of the pandemic, we both created new work for clients and did fast edits of clients’ existing spots as an immediate solution for marketers who would otherwise have no choice but to go dark.

For example, one of our clients had a spot currently in rotation that suddenly felt tone-deaf to consumers’ reality. Within a day, our internal team created a new one for them using custom motion graphics and voice-over. The solution enabled the brand to get something back in-market and gave them some flexibility as they work with their external agency to produce a new commercial campaign.

Prior to COVID-19, we created custom content for Mattel’s Barbie for the 2020 Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards, which featured a group of kids dancing together. Given that schools are currently closed and social distancing measures are in place, the content could feel confusing or alarming to kids, so to address this, we shot via-remote capture, our talent from the safety of her home, letting viewers know that this was shot previously. Another piece of custom content we made for the KCA’s, in partnership with MILK PEP, featured kids in a skate park and to re-adjust, we did a quick re-edit to show separation between the kids.


Another way we helped advertisers pivot commercial messaging that had suddenly become inappropriate or irrelevant was to work them into our #AloneTogether and #KidsTogether PSA campaign. Clients had the option to run our existing #AloneTogether PSA, or work with us to create customizable versions that could align closer with their brand positioning while also sharing a positive message of support for consumers. On Nickelodeon, we created a series of #KidsTogether PSAs (and used our own kids for the voiceovers).

These spots made it possible for brands to stay in-market in a relevant and meaningful way, while also providing an avenue to use their commercial time to amplify a positive message.

Perfecting Social Campaigns and Remote Capture

To support the #DistanceDance, a social distancing initiative targeting Gen Z created by Proctor & Gamble in partnership with TikTok phenom Charli D’Amelio, we activated our linear, digital, and social content to drive mass awareness and fan engagement for the dance challenge across the ViacomCBS portfolio.

During #KidsTogether: The Nickelodeon Town Hall special that aired on the network and YouTube at the end of March, D’Amelio gave host Kristen Bell a #DistanceDance tutorial and encouraged families to dance, share, and spread the message. Additionally, our networks rallied fan participation by leveraging talent with massive social reach; creating original #DistanceDance videos on MTV’s Wild ‘N Out with Justina Valentine, Paramount Network’s Lip Sync Battle, VH1’s RuPaul’s Drag Race, and others. The ViacomCBS campaign garnered more than 2M impressions on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and Twitter, and 10 billion views on TikTok.


For our client Modelo, Velocity worked with the team at The Daily Show to spotlight the brand’s support of First Responders First. The Daily Social Distancing Show with Trevor Noah has been a leading voice in late night during the Coronavirus pandemic, so it was a natural fit to explore integrating feel-good stories from our advertising partners who are equally invested in helping people through this crisis. In the April 30th episode of the show, Trevor encouraged viewers to celebrate the upcoming Cinco de Mayo holiday by raising a glass to all the health care workers on the front line. Courtesy of Modelo, for every toast posted on social media with the hashtag #CincUp, the company will donate $1 to First Responders First, up to $500,000.


For MTV, we engaged our network of talented dancers to self-shoot a sequence we directed and then edited together to make a spot that rivals anything done via traditional production.

Overall, the last weeks have given us a chance to spotlight our capabilities and find new ones. It’s made us realize what’s possible when it comes to delivering for clients and consumers. We’ve found ways to work together and work quickly even when we can’t all be in a room together. If you told me a writers’ room could be just as fruitful (and hilarious) without being in an actual writers’ room, I wouldn’t have believed you. And I would have been wrong.

Beth Trentacoste is Senior Vice President and Head of Creative & Production at Viacom Velocity, a full-service in-house creative advertising and branded content studio.

More Nick: ViacomCBS and Google Announce Expanded Distribution Agreement

---

Follow NickALive! on Twitter, Tumblr, Reddit, via RSS, on Instagram, and/or Facebook for the latest Nickelodeon News and Highlights!

Record-breaking $2.2 Million Raised for Kids at 11th Annual Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk

Record-breaking $2.2 Million Raised for Kids at 11th Annual Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk

The Event Has Raised More Than $13 Million in Total for Children with Special Needs and Students

October 29, 2019 12:00 PM Eastern Daylight Time

Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk Co-Founder Michael Greenberg rallied thousands of walkers at the 11th annual event. The Walk broke donation records, raising over $2.2 million for children with special needs and education.

MANHATTAN BEACH, Calif.--The Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk continued the Skechers Foundation’s 11-year tradition of record-breaking donations for kids—raising more than $2.2 million for children with special needs and education at Sunday’s event, and more than $13 million in total since its start. Supported by lead presenter Nickelodeon, media sponsor NBC4 Southern California, airline sponsor Turkish Airlines and generous businesses, the event launched its second decade with a special performance by this season’s America’s Got Talent winner, global superstar Kodi Lee; returning sports legends Sugar Ray Leonard and Tommy Lasorda; and more than 17,000 registered walkers.

“Heck yeah, Skechers Pier to Pier Walk… it feels so awesome to be a superstar… I love it when they chanted Kodi!” exclaimed Kodi Lee at the Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk.

Added mother Tina Lee: “Kodi’s win at America’s Got Talent wasn’t just a victory for him, the whole world won—it was also a win for every person who looked past his blindness and autism and saw the true talent that he is. It’s an honor for him to be at the Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk, because this event really uplifts, normalizes and embraces our children. It celebrates them for who they really are—not just as people with special needs, but as incredible individuals who can have a lasting impact.”

“Kodi’s an amazing global icon and role model for each and every one of us,” said Michael Greenberg, co-founder of the Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk. “He’s helped change the world this year for the better in such a seismic way—and every child in our community has that same potential, thanks in part to the more than $2.2 million that this Walk has raised. From the Friendship Foundation’s programs, classes and dozens of regional school clubs, to our college scholarships and the new classes, facilities and technology we’re bringing to our schools, our Walk is transforming thousands of lives with every step.”

America's Got Talent winner and global superstar Kodi Lee performs at the Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk.

Since 2009, the Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk has raised more than $13 million for The Friendship Foundation, public schools and scholarship funds for exceptional students. The Friendship Foundation assists children with special needs and their families through one-on-one peer mentoring and social recreational activities such as summer camps, outings to sporting events and classes that include music, yoga, cooking, art and drama. The event also helps education foundations maintain and enhance their schools in areas like technology, music, and science, from reducing class sizes and updating labs, libraries and facilities to protecting teachers’ jobs. The Skechers Foundation’s national scholarship program awards $100,000 annually to students who have financial need and proven excellence in academics, athletics and leadership.

Celebrity attendees at this year’s Walk included fitness guru Denise Austin; NBC4 investigative reporter and opening program emcee Lolita Lopez; and the casts of Brat’s Chicken Girls; Nickelodeon’s Knight Squad and All That reboot; as well as numerous YouTubers, Nickelodeon and Disney network stars. Fans celebrated SpongeBob’s 20th anniversary with SpongeBob, Patrick and Friends and enjoyed performances by World of Dance star Ayden Nguyen, Malea Emma, and Disney Channel’s favorite rapper, Issac Ryan Brown. New attractions included a business class ticket sweepstakes event sponsored by Turkish Airlines, and a pet adoption center sponsored by the Petco Foundation and Los Angeles County animal shelters.

The Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk thanks its headlining sponsor Nickelodeon, media sponsor NBC4 and new airline sponsor Turkish Airlines, along with all of its generous sponsors, including: United Legwear & Apparel, McCarthy Construction, KCI General Contractors, Moose Toys, Kinecta Federal Credit Union, Petco Foundation, Steel Sports, The CET Foundation, Vertra, Ross Stores, Chevron, DreamWorks, Dakine, Aptos Retail, Continental Development, Mattel, Marshalls, OLIPOP, LA Kings, WSS and more than 100 other companies who have supported our children.

To learn more about the Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk, please visit skechersfriendshipwalk.com and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

About Skechers Foundation

The Skechers Foundation was established to provide families around the world with the necessities and skills to succeed in life. In addition to organizing the Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk, the Skechers Foundation funds tax-exempt, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations that provide education and job training, shoes, clothing, fitness and nutrition guidance to communities in need.

About Skechers USA, Inc.

Based in Manhattan Beach, California, Skechers (NYSE: SKX) designs, develops and markets a diverse range of lifestyle footwear for men, women and children, as well as performance footwear for men and women. Skechers footwear is available in the United States and over 170 countries and territories worldwide via department and specialty stores, more than 3,300 Skechers Company-owned and third-party-owned retail stores, and the Company’s e-commerce websites. The Company manages its international business through a network of global distributors, joint venture partners in Asia, Israel and Mexico, and wholly-owned subsidiaries in Canada, Japan, India, and throughout Europe and Latin America. For more information, please visit about.skechers.com and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

This announcement contains forward-looking statements that are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements include, without limitation, Skechers’ future domestic and international growth, financial results and operations including expected net sales and earnings, its development of new products, future demand for its products, its planned domestic and international expansion, opening of new stores and additional expenditures, and advertising and marketing initiatives. Forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking language such as “believe,” “anticipate,” “expect,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “project,” “will be,” “will continue,” “will result,” “could,” “may,” “might,” or any variations of such words with similar meanings. Any such statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in forward-looking statements. Factors that might cause or contribute to such differences include international economic, political and market conditions including the challenging consumer retail markets in the United States; sustaining, managing and forecasting costs and proper inventory levels; losing any significant customers; decreased demand by industry retailers and cancellation of order commitments due to the lack of popularity of particular designs and/or categories of products; maintaining brand image and intense competition among sellers of footwear for consumers, especially in the highly competitive performance footwear market; anticipating, identifying, interpreting or forecasting changes in fashion trends, consumer demand for the products and the various market factors described above; sales levels during the spring, back-to-school and holiday selling seasons; and other factors referenced or incorporated by reference in Skechers’ annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2018, and its quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the three months ended June 30, 2019. The risks included here are not exhaustive. Skechers operates in a very competitive and rapidly changing environment. New risks emerge from time to time and we cannot predict all such risk factors, nor can we assess the impact of all such risk factors on our business or operations or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements. Given these risks and uncertainties, you should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements as a prediction of actual results. Moreover, reported results should not be considered an indication of future performance.

More Nick: Nickelodeon Embarks on New Direction with its Biggest, Most Wide-Ranging Content Slate Ever!

---

Follow NickALive! on Twitter, Tumblr, Reddit, via RSS, on Instagram, and/or Facebook for the latest Nickelodeon News and Highlights!

Second Decade of Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk Launches With $2 Million Fundraising Goal for Kids

Second Decade of Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk Launches With $2 Million Fundraising Goal for Kids

Sugar Ray Leonard, Global Star Kodi Lee and More Celebrities Aim to Raise Awareness for Children with Special Needs and Education

October 17, 2019 02:43 PM Eastern Daylight Time

An annual October tradition for thousands, the Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk aims to raise $2 million this month for children with special needs and education.

MANHATTAN BEACH, Calif.--California’s largest walk for children with special needs and education, the Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk launches its second decade with a $2 million fundraising goal, jet-setting prizes and a live performance starring this season’s America’s Got Talent winner Kodi Lee, the blind and autistic singing sensation whose phenomenal musical talents have captivated the world. Together with presenting sponsor Nickelodeon, media sponsor NBC4 and Walk veterans like Sugar Ray Leonard, the Skechers Foundation aims to continue the Walk’s record-breaking streak of donations for children of all ages and abilities.

The 11th annual event on October 27th will also feature SpongeBob’s 20th anniversary with SpongeBob, Patrick and Friends; business class ticket sweepstakes sponsored by Turkish Airlines, the Walk’s new official airline partner; and an adopt-a-pet center sponsored by the Petco Foundation and Los Angeles County animal shelters.

Friendship Foundation pals celebrate the Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk in 2018. The event’s funds give children with special needs enriching classes, activities, group outings and lifelong friendships.

“We’re thrilled to have Kodi perform at the Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk, just days before headlining his America’s Got Talent LIVE! tour. Our Walk is the perfect venue to celebrate his AGT victory as we inspire, educate and raise funds for kids with special needs and students,” said Michael Greenberg, president of Skechers and the Skechers Foundation. “The dedication of returning legends like Sugar Ray Leonard and generous organizations like Nickelodeon and NBC4 have helped us reach incredible donation milestones for kids: last year, we raised $2 million, and through their continued support, we hope to pass that number this year.”

“We’ve proudly supported the Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk for eight years because this mission is so synchronous with our values as an organization,” added Jennifer Tracy, senior vice president of Activation at Viacom Velocity. “When events like this are bolstered by their communities and become annual traditions, the kids get to reap the great benefits all year—and we’re excited to be part of this incredible movement.”

Attendees at this year’s Walk will include celebrities like Hall of Fame baseball legend Tommy Lasorda and Denise Austin; NBC4 investigative reporter and opening program emcee Lolita Lopez; and the casts of Brat’s Chicken Girls and Nickelodeon’s Knight Squad and All That reboot—along with numerous YouTubers, Nickelodeon and Disney network stars and performances by World of Dance star Ayden Nguyen, Malea Emma, and Disney Channel’s favorite rapper, Issac Ryan Brown.

Donations from the Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk support The Friendship Foundation, public schools and scholarship funds for exceptional students. The Friendship Foundation assists children with special needs and their families through one-on-one peer mentoring and social recreational activities such as summer camps, outings to sporting events and classes that include music, yoga, cooking, art and drama. The event also helps education foundations maintain and enhance their schools in areas like technology, music, and science, from reducing class sizes and updating labs, libraries and facilities to protecting teachers’ jobs. The Skechers Foundation’s national scholarship program awards $100,000 annually to students who have financial need and proven excellence in academics, athletics and leadership.

The 3.4-mile Walk will start at the Manhattan Beach Pier at 9AM, where participants will walk to the Hermosa Beach Pier and back. The event will also feature bounce houses, kids’ activities and giveaways—and event followers can win prizes on social media now through the day of the Walk. To register or make a donation, visit skechersfriendshipwalk.com or follow the Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk on Facebook (facebook.com/SKECHERSFriendshipWalk), Instagram (instagram.com/skechersp2pwalk) and Twitter (twitter.com/SkechersP2PWalk).

In addition to headlining sponsor Nickelodeon, media sponsor NBC4 and new airline sponsor Turkish Airlines, the Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk thanks all of its sponsors, including United Legwear & Apparel, McCarthy Construction, KCI General Contractors, Moose Toys, Kinecta Federal Credit Union, Petco Foundation, Steel Sports, The CET Foundation, Vertra, Ross Stores, Chevron, DreamWorks, Dakine, Aptos Retail, Continental Development, Mattel, Marshalls, OLIPOP, LA Kings, WSS and more than 100 other companies who have supported our children.

About Skechers Foundation

The Skechers Foundation was established to provide families around the world with the necessities and skills to succeed in life. In addition to organizing the Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk, the Skechers Foundation funds tax-exempt, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations that provide education and job training, shoes, clothing, fitness and nutrition guidance to communities in need.

About Skechers USA, Inc.

Based in Manhattan Beach, California, Skechers (NYSE: SKX) designs, develops and markets a diverse range of lifestyle footwear for men, women and children, as well as performance footwear for men and women. Skechers footwear is available in the United States and over 170 countries and territories worldwide via department and specialty stores, more than 3,170 Skechers Company-owned and third-party-owned retail stores, and the Company’s e-commerce websites. The Company manages its international business through a network of global distributors, joint venture partners in Asia, Israel and Mexico, and wholly-owned subsidiaries in Canada, Japan, India, and throughout Europe and Latin America. For more information, please visit about.skechers.com and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

This announcement contains forward-looking statements that are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements include, without limitation, Skechers’ future domestic and international growth, financial results and operations including expected net sales and earnings, its development of new products, future demand for its products, its planned domestic and international expansion, opening of new stores and additional expenditures, and advertising and marketing initiatives. Forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking language such as “believe,” “anticipate,” “expect,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “project,” “will be,” “will continue,” “will result,” “could,” “may,” “might,” or any variations of such words with similar meanings. Any such statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in forward-looking statements. Factors that might cause or contribute to such differences include international economic, political and market conditions including the challenging consumer retail markets in the United States; sustaining, managing and forecasting costs and proper inventory levels; losing any significant customers; decreased demand by industry retailers and cancellation of order commitments due to the lack of popularity of particular designs and/or categories of products; maintaining brand image and intense competition among sellers of footwear for consumers, especially in the highly competitive performance footwear market; anticipating, identifying, interpreting or forecasting changes in fashion trends, consumer demand for the products and the various market factors described above; sales levels during the spring, back-to-school and holiday selling seasons; and other factors referenced or incorporated by reference in Skechers’ annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2018, and its quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the three months ended June 30, 2019. The risks included here are not exhaustive. Skechers operates in a very competitive and rapidly changing environment. New risks emerge from time to time and we cannot predict all such risk factors, nor can we assess the impact of all such risk factors on our business or operations or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements. Given these risks and uncertainties, you should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements as a prediction of actual results. Moreover, reported results should not be considered an indication of future performance.

Via Business Wire.

Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk Celebrates 10 Years with Record-Breaking Donation for Kids

Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk Celebrates 10 Years with Record-Breaking Donation for Kids

The Walk’s Latest Event Raised More Than $2 Million for Children with Special Needs, Schools and College Scholarships

March 11, 2019 03:15 PM Eastern Daylight Time

Brooke Burke, Skechers Foundation president Michael Greenberg, and Denise Austin celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk. (Photo: Business Wire)

MANHATTAN BEACH, Calif.--The Skechers Foundation distributed checks for its largest-ever donations to children with special needs and education after a record-setting year at its 10th annual Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk, sponsored by Nickelodeon and NBC4 Southern California. Celebrities Brooke Burke and Denise Austin as well as executives from Skechers and the foundations receiving donations were on hand for a check presentation ceremony at the Shade Hotel in Manhattan Beach, California on Thursday, March 7.

Among the presentations was nearly $600,000 to the non-profit organization Friendship Foundation to advance its efforts for children with special needs and their families. Additionally, checks totaling more than $1 million were presented to six education foundations. And the Skechers Foundation also continued its annual scholarship program, announcing that college scholarships will be awarded to exceptional high school students nationwide for the third year in a row.

Skechers Foundation president Michael Greenberg (second from right) and executive director Robin Curren (third from left) present Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk donations to the Friendship Foundation. Check recipients included executive director Rabbi Yossi Mintz (far right) and managing director Nina Patel (center). (Photo: Business Wire)

“Since its start, the Walk has raised an incredible $11 million for our kids – and it’s all because of the tens of thousands of walkers, donors and sponsors who have believed in our event as passionately as we believe in our children,” said Michael Greenberg, president of Skechers. “For the past decade, they’ve supported and have rallied for us as we’ve grown into the largest event of our kind in the state. This event’s great success is really thanks to them.”

“The Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk inspires, it educates, it empowers. A generation of children have benefitted from our love and support with new opportunities that came straight out of this event,” said Brooke Burke, a long-time supporter of the Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk. “I’m so honored to take part in this annual tradition of inclusiveness, positivity and belief in our kids. It’s community movements like this that are changing our children’s lives.”

Exclusively funded by the Walk’s sponsors, the Skechers Foundation’s scholarship program will offer the high school class of 2019 the latest opportunity to receive scholarships based on need and exceptional achievements in academics, athletics and leadership. Administering the program is Scholarship America® – the nation’s largest designer and manager of scholarships, tuition assistance and education support programs. The application at www.SkechersFriendshipWalk.com is currently available to all high school seniors in the United States; winners will be announced in early June.

In just 10 years, the Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk has grown from a passionate community of a thousand that raised $220,000 in 2009, into an annual, star-studded festival – attracting celebrities including South Bay fitness guru Denise Austin, sport legends like Sugar Ray Leonard and Tommy Lasorda, as well as Brooke Burke, Jimmy Kimmel, and more than 13,000 people in 2018 to support children with special needs and education. In addition to the Friendship Foundation, the Walk supports educational foundations committed to improving public schools – protecting teachers’ jobs, retaining STEM and vital academic and cultural programs, maintaining smaller class sizes, improving libraries and upgrading school technology.

Greenberg continued: “We want to extend special thanks to our co-presenter Nickelodeon, media sponsor NBC4 Southern California and the more than 100 companies with a conscience, who’ve returned year after year to support our Walk, instill confidence and joy in our kids with special needs, and inspire our kids to realize their dreams and all the ways they can shape the world.”

In addition to Nickelodeon and NBC4 Southern California, The Skechers Foundation thanks the many sponsors who have contributed to the Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk’s successful first decade – from The Claudette & Ethan Rickett Care Foundation and United Legwear & Apparel to dozens of other companies who have lent their support.

About Skechers Foundation

The Skechers Foundation was established to provide families around the world with the necessities and skills to succeed in life. In addition to organizing the Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk, the Skechers Foundation funds tax-exempt, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations that provide education and job training, shoes, clothing, fitness and nutrition guidance to communities in need.

About Skechers U.S.A., Inc.

Based in Manhattan Beach, California, Skechers (NYSE:SKX) designs, develops and markets a diverse range of lifestyle footwear for men, women and children, as well as performance footwear for men and women. Skechers footwear is available in the United States and over 170 countries and territories worldwide via department and specialty stores, more than 3,000 Skechers Company-owned and third-party-owned retail stores, and the Company’s e-commerce websites. The Company manages its international business through a network of global distributors, joint venture partners in Asia and the Middle East, and wholly-owned subsidiaries in Canada, Japan, India, throughout Europe and Latin America. For more information, please visit about.skechers.com and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

This announcement contains forward-looking statements that are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements include, without limitation, Skechers’ future domestic and international growth, financial results and operations including expected net sales and earnings, its development of new products, future demand for its products, its planned domestic and international expansion, opening of new stores and additional expenditures, and advertising and marketing initiatives. Forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking language such as “believe,” “anticipate,” “expect,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “project,” “will be,” “will continue,” “will result,” “could,” “may,” “might,” or any variations of such words with similar meanings. Any such statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in forward-looking statements. Factors that might cause or contribute to such differences include international economic, political and market conditions including the challenging consumer retail markets in the United States; sustaining, managing and forecasting costs and proper inventory levels; losing any significant customers; decreased demand by industry retailers and cancellation of order commitments due to the lack of popularity of particular designs and/or categories of products; maintaining brand image and intense competition among sellers of footwear for consumers, especially in the highly competitive performance footwear market; anticipating, identifying, interpreting or forecasting changes in fashion trends, consumer demand for the products and the various market factors described above; sales levels during the spring, back-to-school and holiday selling seasons; and other factors referenced or incorporated by reference in Skechers’ annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2018. The risks included here are not exhaustive. Skechers operates in a very competitive and rapidly changing environment. New risks emerge from time to time and the companies cannot predict all such risk factors, nor can the companies assess the impact of all such risk factors on their respective businesses or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements. Given these risks and uncertainties, you should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements as a prediction of actual results. Moreover, reported results should not be considered an indication of future performance.

---

Follow NickALive! on Twitter, Tumblr, Reddit, via RSS, on Instagram, and/or Facebook for the latest Nickelodeon News and Highlights!

More Than $2 Million Raised for Kids at the 10th Annual Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk

More Than $2 Million Raised for Kids at the 10th Annual Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk

Donations for Children with Special Needs, School Foundations and Scholarships Have Totaled More Than $11 Million to Date

October 30, 2018 02:50 PM Eastern Daylight Time

Sugar Ray Leonard, Brooke Burke and Denise Austin join Skechers president Michael Greenberg at the 10th Annual Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk in Manhattan Beach, California. The Walk raised more than $2 million for children with special needs and schools.

MANHATTAN BEACH, Calif.--The Skechers Foundation broke new fundraising records for children with special needs and education at Sunday’s 10th annual Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk, surpassing $2 million in contributions and totaling over $11 million since the Walk’s launch. Supported by lead presenter Nickelodeon and media sponsor NBC4 Southern California, the event was attended by more than 15,000 walkers and participants as well as numerous entertainment and sport celebrities, including legendary boxer Sugar Ray Leonard, actress and model Brooke Burke and fitness icon Denise Austin.

“At 10 years, the Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk is bigger and better than ever,” said Brooke Burke. “In the many years I’ve taken part, I’ve seen this event grow from a community movement to the largest event of its kind in California. The one thing that never changes is the commitment that all of these families and friends have for their children. It’s such an incredible model for the great things that our community can do for our kids.”

Friendship Foundation pals Talia Colen and Gaby Gomez take the stage at the Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk. The annual event has helped launch Friendship Foundation clubs at more than 30 schools across Southern California.

“This event has affected thousands of our kids in profound ways,” added Michael Greenberg, co-founder of the Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk. “The children attending have grown up seeing the great impact a community can have, whether it’s their parents walking for their education, or how they can personally support kids with special needs through more than 33 Friendship Foundation school clubs in the South Bay. At a time when bullying continues to be a concern, we’ve raised a generation who is more sensitive to the needs of those who are different from them, thanks in part to this event and the Friendship Foundation. And I can’t wait to start our next decade of encouraging positive change in our community through this Walk.”

View this post on Instagram

Thank you to our presenting sponsor @nickelodeon @nickradio @j.boogieonthebeat @micahabbey @scarletsofiaspencer @dallasdboy for being so awesome! We can’t wait to watch your new show COUSINS FOR LIFE! 🙌 #nickelodeon #newshow #nextbigthing

A post shared by The SKECHERS Friendship Walk (@skechersp2pwalk) on Oct 29, 2018 at 8:49pm PDT

The Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk has raised more than $11 million since its launch in 2009. Funds support The Friendship Foundation, an organization that assists children with special needs and their families through one-on-one peer mentoring and social recreational activities such as summer camps, outings to sporting events and a variety of classes that include music, yoga, cooking, art and drama. The Walk also funds education foundations committed to retaining vital academic programs, maintaining smaller classes, improving libraries and upgrading school technology, and also supports the Skechers Foundation’s annual scholarship program, which will donate $100,000 to deserving students across the country in 2019.

In addition to performances by seven-year-old singing sensation Malea Emma Tjandrawidjaja, upcoming High School Musical star Joshua Bassett, Nayah Damasen, Dream Crew and Pynk Le’monade, fans enjoyed autographs and photographs with characters SpongeBob and Patrick, and young celebrities from shows like Nickelodeon’s Knight Squad and Cousins For Life, NBC’s This is Us and CBS’ Young Sheldon, plus a guest appearance from Nick Radio's J. Boogie.

The Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk thanks its headlining sponsor Nickelodeon, media sponsor NBC4 Southern California and numerous additional sponsors, including: The Claudette & Ethan Rickett Care Foundation, Steel Sports, Ross Stores, Moose Toys, Continental Development, Vertra Suncare, JR 286, Kinecta Federal Credit Union, Northrup Grumman, Marshalls, Wells Fargo, United Legwear, Chevron, and more than 100 other companies who have supported our children.

To learn more about the Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk, please visit skechersfriendshipwalk.com and follow them on facebook.com/SKECHERSFriendshipWalk, twitter.com/SkechersP2PWalk and Instagram.

About Skechers Foundation

The Skechers Foundation was established to provide families around the world with the necessities and skills to succeed in life. In addition to organizing the Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk, the Skechers Foundation funds tax-exempt, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations that provide education and job training, shoes, clothing, fitness and nutrition guidance to communities in need.

About Skechers USA, Inc.

Skechers USA, Inc., based in Manhattan Beach, California, designs, develops and markets a diverse range of lifestyle footwear for men, women and children, as well as performance footwear for men and women. Skechers footwear is available in the United States and over 170 countries and territories worldwide via department and specialty stores, 2,800 Skechers Company-owned and third-party-owned retail stores, and the Company’s e-commerce websites. The Company manages its international business through a network of global distributors, joint venture partners in Asia and the Middle East, and wholly-owned subsidiaries in Canada, Japan, throughout Europe and Latin America. For more information, please visit about.skechers.com and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

This announcement contains forward-looking statements that are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements include, without limitation, Skechers’ future domestic and international growth, financial results and operations including expected net sales and earnings, its development of new products, future demand for its products, its planned domestic and international expansion, opening of new stores and additional expenditures, and advertising and marketing initiatives. Forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking language such as “believe,” “anticipate,” “expect,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “project,” “will be,” “will continue,” “will result,” “could,” “may,” “might,” or any variations of such words with similar meanings. Any such statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in forward-looking statements. Factors that might cause or contribute to such differences include international economic, political and market conditions including the challenging consumer retail markets in the United States; sustaining, managing and forecasting costs and proper inventory levels; losing any significant customers; decreased demand by industry retailers and cancellation of order commitments due to the lack of popularity of particular designs and/or categories of products; maintaining brand image and intense competition among sellers of footwear for consumers, especially in the highly competitive performance footwear market; anticipating, identifying, interpreting or forecasting changes in fashion trends, consumer demand for the products and the various market factors described above; sales levels during the spring, back-to-school and holiday selling seasons; and other factors referenced or incorporated by reference in the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2017, and its quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the three months ended June 30, 2018. The risks included here are not exhaustive. Skechers operates in a very competitive and rapidly changing environment. New risks emerge from time to time and the companies cannot predict all such risk factors, nor can the companies assess the impact of all such risk factors on their respective businesses or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements. Given these risks and uncertainties, you should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements as a prediction of actual results. Moreover, reported results should not be considered an indication of future performance.

Original source: Business Wire.

---

Follow NickALive! on Twitter, Tumblr, Google+, via RSS, on Instagram, and/or Facebook for the latest Nickelodeon News and Highlights!

Skechers Celebrates 10th Pier to Pier Friendship Walk with $2 Million Fundraising Goal for Kids

Skechers Celebrates 10th Pier to Pier Friendship Walk with $2 Million Fundraising Goal for Kids

Sugar Ray Leonard, Brooke Burke, Tommy Lasorda and More Celebrities to Gather in Support of Children with Special Needs and Education on October 28

October 10, 2018 12:00 PM Eastern Daylight Time

MANHATTAN BEACH, Calif.--The Skechers Foundation plans to break all donation and attendance records on October 28th at the organization’s 10th annual Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk, California’s largest in support of children with special needs and education. Backed by presenting sponsor Nickelodeon and media sponsor NBC4 Southern California, the Walk has topped donations every year since its inception, and is expected to continue its winning streak and surpass $2 million for the first time in the event’s history.

“This year’s event is going to be an incredible celebration – one that looks back on how we’ve raised more than $10 million for kids this past decade, and aims higher with even bigger goals for the next generation,” said Michael Greenberg, president of Skechers and the Skechers Foundation. “We started the Walk in 2009 to take action during a tough economy when state budgets were especially tight for our children – and thanks to the compassion of Nickelodeon, our sponsors and tens of thousands of passionate citizens, those kids are now motivated young adults who are making a difference.”

“At Nickelodeon we celebrate all kids, and all of the wonderful characteristics that make them unique, which is why we are proud to support the Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk and the important work this event will fund,” said Jennifer Tracy, Senior Vice President (SVP) of Partner Marketing at Nickelodeon Velocity.

Update (10/27): Micah Abbey, who will be starring in Nickelodeon's upcoming comedy series Cousins For Life, has announced the further exciting news that he, along with a raft of his Nick co-stars, will be taking part in the 2018 Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk on Sunday, October 28!

View this post on Instagram

In 3 days come join me, these cool Skechers boots, and other Nickelodeon actors on the @skechersp2pwalk . Make some new friends and give back. #skechers #shies #boots #sneakers #walk #cali #beach #lovewins #kindnessmatters #bekind #differentisbeautiful #specialneeds #nickelodeon #friendship #skechersp2pwalk #camo #ddokids #micahabbey #cfl #cousinsforlife #volunteer #fun #boysstyle #boysfashion #actor #model

A post shared by Micah Abbey (@micahabbey) on Oct 25, 2018 at 9:49am PDT

The Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk is a primary contributor to The Friendship Foundation, an organization that assists children with special needs and their families through one-on-one peer mentoring and social recreational activities such as summer camps, outings to sporting events and a variety of classes that include music, yoga, cooking, art and drama. In addition to educating, inspiring and connecting children who have special needs with their community, the Walk also helps education foundations maintain and enhance their schools; improve technology, science labs and libraries; revamp music programs; reduce class sizes and protect teachers’ jobs. The Skechers Foundation’s scholarship program also awards $100,000 annually to exceptional students who have shown financial need and excellence in academics, athletics and leadership.

The 9th annual Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk raised more than $1.8 million for children with special needs and education. (Photo: Business Wire)

Since its inception, the Walk has grown from approximately 1,000 people in attendance who raised $220,000 in 2009 to more than 13,000 walkers and participants donating $1.8 million in 2017. The event has also amassed a team of loyal celebrities, including Sugar Ray Leonard and Brooke Burke who are returning for the fourth and eighth time, respectively, and sports legend Tommy Lasorda – a Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk board member who helped launch the event with Michael Greenberg and has attended every year since its inception.

“As great as our past Walks have been, our eye is on the future,” added Tommy Lasorda. “With more funds dedicated to children with special needs, our schools, and scholarships for our kids, we’re only going to reach higher and create more incredible success stories.”

Brooke Burke, Denise Austin, Michael Greenberg, David Charvet, Sugar Ray Leonard and Rabbi Yossi Mintz join family and friends at the 2017 Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk. (Photo: Business Wire)

The 3.4-mile Walk will begin at the Manhattan Beach Pier at 9AM, where participants will walk to the Hermosa Beach Pier and back. To register or make a donation, visit skechersfriendshipwalk.com or follow SKECHERS on Facebook (facebook.com/SKECHERSFriendshipWalk) and Twitter (twitter.com/SkechersP2PWalk).

In addition to headlining sponsor Nickelodeon and media sponsor NBC4 Southern California, the Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk thanks its sponsors that include: The Claudette & Ethan Rickett Care Foundation, Steel Sports, Ross Stores, Moose Toys, Continental Development, Vertra Suncare, JR 286, and more than 100 other companies who have supported our children.

About Skechers Foundation
The Skechers Foundation was established to provide families around the world with the necessities and skills to succeed in life. In addition to organizing the Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk, the Skechers Foundation funds tax-exempt, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations that provide education and job training, shoes, clothing, fitness and nutrition guidance to communities in need.

About Skechers USA, Inc.
Skechers USA, Inc., based in Manhattan Beach, California, designs, develops and markets a diverse range of lifestyle footwear for men, women and children, as well as performance footwear for men and women. Skechers footwear is available in the United States and over 170 countries and territories worldwide via department and specialty stores, 2,715 Skechers Company-owned and third-party-owned retail stores, and the Company’s e-commerce websites. The Company manages its international business through a network of global distributors, joint venture partners in Asia and the Middle East, and wholly-owned subsidiaries in Canada, Japan, throughout Europe and Latin America. For more information, please visit about.skechers.com and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

This announcement contains forward-looking statements that are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements include, without limitation, Skechers’ future domestic and international growth, financial results and operations including expected net sales and earnings, its development of new products, future demand for its products, its planned domestic and international expansion, opening of new stores and additional expenditures, and advertising and marketing initiatives. Forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking language such as “believe,” “anticipate,” “expect,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “project,” “will be,” “will continue,” “will result,” “could,” “may,” “might,” or any variations of such words with similar meanings. Any such statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in forward-looking statements. Factors that might cause or contribute to such differences include international economic, political and market conditions including the challenging consumer retail markets in the United States; sustaining, managing and forecasting costs and proper inventory levels; losing any significant customers; decreased demand by industry retailers and cancellation of order commitments due to the lack of popularity of particular designs and/or categories of products; maintaining brand image and intense competition among sellers of footwear for consumers, especially in the highly competitive performance footwear market; anticipating, identifying, interpreting or forecasting changes in fashion trends, consumer demand for the products and the various market factors described above; sales levels during the spring, back-to-school and holiday selling seasons; and other factors referenced or incorporated by reference in the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2017, and its quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the three months ended June 30, 2018. The risks included here are not exhaustive. Skechers operates in a very competitive and rapidly changing environment. New risks emerge from time to time and the companies cannot predict all such risk factors, nor can the companies assess the impact of all such risk factors on their respective businesses or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements. Given these risks and uncertainties, you should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements as a prediction of actual results. Moreover, reported results should not be considered an indication of future performance.

Originally published: Thursday, October 11, 2018.

Original source: Business Wire.

---

Follow NickALive! on Twitter, Tumblr, Google+, via RSS, on Instagram, and/or Facebook for the latest Nickelodeon News and Highlights!

Nickelodeon Readies More Than 650 Episodes of New and Returning Series This Season

Original Nickelodeon USA Press Release via Business Wire:

Nickelodeon Readies More Than 650 Episodes of New and Returning Series This Season

Number-One Kids' Network Announces New Shows, Specials and Events, Plus Slate of Series Putting Real Kids Back on TV

Highlights From Network's Annual Upfront Presentation Include Appearances by Carolina Panthers Quarterback Cam Newton, NBA Star Carmelo Anthony, TV Producer Rob Dyrdek and Top-Selling Recording Artist Flo Rida

March 02, 2016 05:30 PM Eastern Standard Time

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nickelodeon, at its annual upfront presentation held today at Alice Tully Hall in New York City's Lincoln Center, detailed the plans powering its expanding reach and growing footprint as it heads into the season with more than 650 episodes of new and returning series. Through fostering close relationships with its audience, partners and the creative community, Nick has kept its content pipeline full in every genre, on every screen and in every territory–all contributing to owning the top shows year to date for Kids 2-11 and preschoolers; a significant increase in share; and the number-one position year to date with Kids 2-11 and preschoolers, a standing it had for all of 2015, as well.

"We have worked hard to deepen our relationships with our audience, our partners and the creative community to keep our momentum growing, and we remain unwavering in our mission to put kids first and devote every resource to making the world a more playful place," said Cyma Zarghami, President, Viacom Kids and Family Group.

During today's presentation, Nickelodeon detailed an expanded product offering for its award-winning partner marketing division, Nickelodeon Velocity (formerly Nickelodeon Inside Out Solutions). Nickelodeon Velocity utilizes Nick's creative leadership and iconic intellectual properties to connect partners to kids and families across the brand's ecosystem of multi-platform media destinations, an expansive social footprint, consumer products and on-the-ground experiences. Nickelodeon Velocity can now also offer marketers unprecedented access to the Viacom Velocity Product Group, which is powered by an industry-leading suite of data analysis and social amplification tools. Nickelodeon Velocity's campaigns are designed to put privacy first, are age-appropriate and meet applicable legal requirements.

Cam Newton and Carmelo Anthony at the 2016 Nickelodeon Upfront. (Photo: Business Wire)

Also, Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton took the stage to detail his new series, All In with Cam Newton, where he works with real kids to help make their dreams come true. Rob Dyrdek made a special appearance to talk about two new series he is producing for Nick: Crashletes, a viral sports clip series hosted by New England Patriots' Rob Gronkowski; and Jagger Eaton's Mega Life (working title), a docu-series that follows the 15-year-old skateboarding phenom as he skates around the world and hangs out with his idols.

Nickelodeon's upfront presentation was also punctuated with a special appearance from New York Knicks power forward, Carmelo Anthony–who was on hand to tout his new TMNT x Melo collaboration, a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles-branded capsule collection of boys' apparel and accessories launching in all Macy's stores in May. In a surprise finale, top-selling artist Flo Rida closed with a performance of his latest hit single, "My House."

Following are details of Nickelodeon's 2016 content pipeline:

PRESCHOOL

Nickelodeon is the number-one network for preschoolers year to date, a position it also held for all of 2015. The net currently owns the top five preschool series on all TV, led by PAW Patrol and Blaze and the Monster Machines. Joining Nick's preschool lineup are the following new series announced today:

* Rusty Rivets, picked up for 26 episodes, follows the animated adventures of Rusty as he invents his way out of jams by repurposing parts and objects into the wildest, coolest contraptions ever. The series embodies the principles of the maker movement, while exposing preschoolers to concepts found in science, technology and engineering. Rusty Rivets is created and co-produced by Spin Master Entertainment (PAW Patrol), and slated to premiere later this year.

* Sunny Day, picked up for 40 episodes, follows Sunny, the best hairstylist in her town and a natural leader who believes that every problem can be solved with determination and a little creativity. Created and produced by Silvergate Media (Peter Rabbit), Sunny Day features themes that teach preschoolers about community involvement and self-confidence.

Nick will also air new episodes of returning hit preschool series Shimmer and Shine, Blaze and the Monster Machines, Mutt & Stuff, PAW Patrol, Wallykazam! and Dora and Friends: Into the City!

ANIMATION

Nickelodeon, the number-one network for Kids 2-11 year to date, currently owns the top animated series on all TV. Today, the net announced the renewals of animated hit series: SpongeBob SquarePants, for seasons 10 and 11; and the second season pickups of Harvey Beaks and Pig Goat Banana Cricket.

Pinky Malinky from Nickelodeon's new animated series Pinky Malinky. (Graphic: Business Wire)

As previously announced, Nickelodeon's slate of new animated series on deck are:

* The Loud House, picked up for 26 episodes, is the first series to be greenlit out of Nickelodeon's Animated Shorts Program and is inspired by first-time creator Chris Savino's (Rocko's Modern Life, The Powerpuff Girls) chaotic life growing up in a huge household.

* Bunsen is a Beast!, picked up for 20 episodes, is an original animated comedy created and executive produced by animation veteran Butch Hartman (The Fairly OddParents). The series follows the adventures of Bunsen, the first beast to attend a human grade school, and his best friend and classmate Mikey, who guides Bunsen through the ups and downs of life as a human.

* Mysticons, picked up for 40 episodes, is a half-hour, action series about four girls who transform into legendary warriors and band together to save their realm from an evil queen, Necrafa. Mysticons is licensed by Nelvana.

* Welcome to the Wayne, picked up for 20 episodes, marks Nick's first digital short-form series to be greenlit for television. The series follows the comedic adventures of two 10-year-old boys exploring the crazy, unpredictable world of their New York City apartment building The Wayne. Welcome to the Wayne is created and written by Emmy Award-winning writer and composer Billy Lopez (The Wonder Pets!, Phineas and Ferb).

* Pinky Malinky, picked up for 20 episodes, is a mockumentary series following the everyday life of Pinky Malinky, an infectiously positive hot dog living in a human world. Pinky's experiences will be shared across social media and Nick's digital platforms. The series is co-created and co-executive produced by Chris Garbutt and Rikke Asbjoern (The Amazing World of Gumball), and executive produced by Scott Kreamer (Kung Fu Panda: Legends of Awesomeness).

Nick will also air new episodes of returning animated series Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, The Fairly OddParents and ALVINNN!!! and The Chipmunks.

LIVE-ACTION

Nickelodeon currently owns the top live-action series with Kids 2-11 on all TV, led by Game Shakers. The net announced today the renewal of the two series from hitmaker Dan Schneider: Henry Danger, for season three; and Game Shakers, for season two. Additionally, Nick has picked up another live-action hit The Thundermans for season four.

Joining Nick's live-action lineup are the following new series announced today:

* Jagger Eaton's Mega Life (working title), picked up for 20 episodes, is an action-packed docu-series that follows 15-year-old skateboarder Jagger Eaton as he skates the world and hangs out with his inspiring idols. Jagger Eaton's Mega Life, executive produced by Rob Dyrdek and Shane Nickerson of Superjacket Productions (Fantasy Factory, Ridiculousness), will begin production this spring.

* New England Patriots Super Bowl XLIX Champion and Pro Bowl tight end Rob Gronkowski will host the previously announced Crashletes, a 20-episode viral sports clip series featuring guest personalities from the worlds of sports and entertainment, along with the funniest, craziest clips and user-generated content. The series is executive produced by Rob Dyrdek and Shane Nickerson of Superjacket Productions.

* Ride, picked up for 20 episodes, follows the adventures of Katherine "Kit" Bridges who relocates to England with her dad who is joining the faculty at Covington Academy, an elite equestrian boarding school. Shot in Canada and Ireland, Ride will be produced by Canada's Breakthrough Entertainment and Buccaneer Media in the United Kingdom.

* The Other Kingdom, picked up for 20 episodes, follows fairy Princess Astral who takes human form and enters the mortal world for 90 days. The series is created and executive produced by Thomas W. Lynch and produced by DHX Media. Steven DeNure and Anne Loi of DHX Media also serve as executive producers.

As previously announced, Nickelodeon's slate of new live-action series on deck are:

The cast of Nickelodeon's new live-action series, School of Rock. (Photo: Business Wire)

* School of Rock, picked up for 12 episodes and produced with Paramount Television, follows a group of rule-abiding students who learn to take risks and reach new heights thanks to their substitute teacher, a down-on-his-luck musician who uses the language of rock 'n' roll to inspire his class to form a secret band. School of Rock is developed by Jim and Steve Armogida (Crash & Bernstein, Grounded for Life), who also serve as executive producers with Jay Kogen (The Simpsons, Henry Danger). The 2003 movie of the same name was written by Mike White. Its director Richard Linklater and producer Scott Rudin serve as series executive producers, along with Eli Bush (The Newsroom, Ex Machina).

* All In with Cam Newton (formerly announced as working title I Wanna Be), picked up for 20 episodes and hosted by Carolina Panthers quarterback and 2016 NFL MVP Cam Newton, takes real kids on the ride of their lives to help make their dreams come true. All In with Cam Newton is produced by Magical Elves with Dan Cutforth, Jane Lipsitz and Newton serving as executive producers.

* The Dudas (working title, formerly announced as Homeroom), picked up for six episodes, follows brothers Sam and Tyler Duda–polar opposites whose worlds are turned upside down after Sam skips a grade and joins his brother in 7th grade homeroom. The show is created and executive produced by Kevin Jakubowski. Sharla Sumpter Bridgett also serves as an executive producer.

* The Ludwigs follows the adventures of five foster children who are on a quest to find out what happened to their foster parents after they mysteriously disappear. Filled with comedy, mystery and adventure, the kids must keep up appearances that everything's fine at home and fend off the Ludwigs' greedy and duplicitous heirs. This new project will yield two new series: an English-language, globally commissioned production titled The Ludwigs (20 episodes); and De Ludwigs (20 episodes), a Dutch-language production commissioned by Nickelodeon Netherlands. Both series are produced by Blooming Media and are filmed in Amsterdam.

* I Am Frankie (working title), picked up for 20 episodes, follows the comedic and dramatic adventures of teenager Frankie who has a very big secret–she's actually an experimental android who must hide her true identity or risk being powered down forever. I Am Frankie is produced in partnership with Nickelodeon Latin America and will be shot in the new Viacom International Studios in Miami, Fla.

Nickelodeon will also air new episodes of returning live-action series Bella and the Bulldogs and Nicky, Ricky, Dicky & Dawn.

TV MOVIES, LIVE EVENTS AND SPECIALS

Nickelodeon's marquee live TV events, movies and specials like Kids' Choice Awards, Kids' Choice Sports and HALO Awards rank consistently among the top telecasts among Kids 2-11. All three TV events will return again this season, along with holiday specials including Ho Ho Holiday Special, which delivered almost 3 million total viewers last year. Also, joining Nickelodeon's lineup are the following new TV movies:

* Lost in the West is a three-part original TV movie that follows two teenage stepbrothers, Chip and Dave, who get transported back in time to 1885 after one of them accidentally invents a time machine. They soon become entangled in a crazy Wild West adventure as they fight off evil outlaws, avoid changing the future and try to make it back to the present. Lost in the West is produced by Galdo Media and directed by Carlos Gonzalez (Big Time Rush).

* Albert, Nickelodeon's first original animated TV movie, is the sweet story of a tiny Douglas fir tree named Albert who loves Christmas more than anyone, but whose miniature size has kept him inside the plant nursery year after year. Joined by his two best friends, a fun-loving palm tree and a rambunctious weed, Albert treks across the country to live his dream of becoming the world's most famous Christmas tree. Max Lang (The Gruffalo) is set to direct, with Chris Viscardi and Will McRobb (The Adventures of Pete & Pete) executive producing.

* Hey Arnold!, a two-part animated TV movie written and executive produced by the series' original creator Craig Bartlett, will pick up where the original series ended and resolve unanswered questions and plotlines, including Arnold finally getting answers about the whereabouts of his missing parents.

* Legends of the Hidden Temple is a new action-adventure movie drawing from the iconic game show's premise of kids competing to retrieve artifacts from a mysterious Mayan temple. The new TV movie version will follow three siblings who find themselves immersed in a real-life mission that they must complete in order to escape alive. Legends of the Hidden Temple is executive produced by Scott McAboy and Jessica Rhoades, and produced by Amy Sydorick. The TV movie is directed by Joe Menendez (From Dusk Till Dawn: The Series) and written by Jonny Umansky & Zach Hyatt, and Alex Reid.

Nickelodeon, now in its 36th year, is the number-one entertainment brand for kids. It has built a diverse, global business by putting kids first in everything it does. The company includes television programming and production in the United States and around the world, plus consumer products, online, recreation, books and feature films. Nickelodeon's U.S. television network is seen in more than 90 million households and has been the number-one-rated basic cable network for 20 consecutive years. For more information or artwork, visit http://www.nickpress.com. Nickelodeon and all related titles, characters and logos are trademarks of Viacom Inc. (NASDAQ: VIA, VIAB).

###

---

Follow NickALive! on Twitter, Tumblr, Google+, via RSS, on Instagram, and/or Facebook for the latest Nickelodeon Upfront News and Highlights!