bounce

The Deed

2010-06-28T15:33:00.002-04:00

As they say, the deed is done.

The new site has gone live. I think it's fair to say that if we were our own client, we'd be hissing.

Love the site, every single thing, now, can we just...cue tweakage.

You can see for yourself. And, if you are of the keeping every thing up to date variety, you can go ahead and scrap this feed.

As our parting gift, an innocuous link that pokes fun at designers and their friends.

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Whoosh...

2010-05-12T15:12:00.002-04:00

Blowing dust off the blog.

((cough))

Squinting eyes to reacquaint clumsy fingers with Blogger.

((cough))

We've threatened before, but this time it's real. The Trampoline site is going live. We'd tell you when, but then we might have to work late. [insert eye roll]

We are, what you might call, fine tuning, albeit between author's alterations, impromptu field trips to campuses in Boston and other necessary Tramp-to-dos.

We like that you keep coming back and we regret the lack of fresh content. Stop by, there's never any shortage of freshness at the studio.

-Your Tramps

Go SUNY | Adirondack

2010-02-25T16:09:00.005-05:00

Congratulations to SUNY | Adirondack on the momentum of their strategic plan.

Today's coverage in The Chronicle was great.

Looking forward to the months ahead.

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Tips of the hat

2010-02-24T11:59:00.005-05:00

Sending a big congratulations to Chris and his platinum team at Scoville Jewelers on their massively successful* Super Sale before this year's SuperBowl. Special thanks to Davidson Brothers for their help in making each gift that much better!

Looking North, a hearty "Way to go" to the entire team at Oscar's. Jerry and Joq, along with their incredible team, reopened their doors to great fanfare. Seeing that kind of community support and celebration is proof of a great business**.

*Not for nothin', but most of the Trampettes got a little bit of sparkle ;)

**And boy, do we have the brats, bacon and More Than Mustard to prove it!

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The Sell

2010-02-08T11:40:00.003-05:00

Mack Collier (@mackcollier) was tweeting that the issue most companies have with blogs (after "not having one") is this: Failing to deliver relevant or quality content and an inability to use it for business development. We have certainly been guilty of the blog as press release or portfolio approach.

Mulling what Mack said, it occurs to me that we might be able to talk a bit about "the sell." It really doesn't matter what the product or cause is. Seriously. Just like social media doesn't have a back door secret to being a cure-all for your marketing woes, the sell cannot be a sham. There are charts and graphs, how to books and lecture series presenting all the ways in which you can magically do x, y or z, but when it comes down to it, it's just like losing weight.

It's about the person.

The honesty.

The accountability.

Resolve. Tenacity. Willingness. Focus.

The sell is knowing who you are talking to and how what you are selling pertains to them. I'm not talking about amortizing the cost of a vacuum cleaner out for 3 years so that it is really only 23 cents a day. That's crap for a person on a budget— smoke and mirrors, nothing more. The sell shouldn't be speculative or projecting some feel good thing that at the end of the day does not benefit the person.

Do you believe what you are selling? Do you really believe that if I do what you are asking— wear it, eat it, buy it, give it— that I am genuinely going to reap the benefits?

Or, when the door is closed and the camera is off is the truth that you are just chasing a number, a goal and I am but a direct line or an unfortunate detour along that run?

We are people. Each of us with our own insecurities, capabilities, advantages and capacities. If, when you offer the sell, you do not sincerely take those things into account, if you put your own motives ahead of how I feel, you will fail. You may get me this time, but when the buzz of your potion wears off, I'll be left feeling used or swindled.

Social media, consumers and your bottom line will all eventually reveal the truth in whether you are offering something of value or are just one more snake oil salesman trying to steal my last dollar.

How you do what you do is up to you, but if relevance and quality are central to success, are you on a course to fail?

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Risky Business

2010-01-26T15:28:00.005-05:00

We take risks and then, sometimes, we don't. Others do.

We've long had our insurance through the O'Briens. A while back they came to us for some brand insurance. They were totally game nodding and diving head first into every aspect of the brand overhaul, with one exception. They were vehicularly gunshy, hesitating to do the full brand monty with their cars.

Until one day, they did.

And the Risk Mobiles were born.

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Tramp Stamp Turf Style

2010-01-22T12:17:00.008-05:00

There is the client experience and then there's the *client* experience. Ken Reynolds is the latter, pushing us harder, cracking us up and generally reminding us that we have really cool jobs. Ken knows cool jobs, he is in the golf simulator business.

We're working on a number of the things for him, but our favorite is the logo.

Why?

Because Ken calls it his "Tramp Stamp."

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Sowing Seeds of Thanks

2009-12-22T15:33:00.004-05:00

We are very lucky to do what we do.

We're even luckier to be doing it here in the Adirondacks.

Luckier still to work with the people we do.

Seasoned Greetings.

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Invitation for a coder

2009-12-14T14:15:00.002-05:00

T'is the season to add a Tramp.

We are hiring a coder.

We have a listing up at Ad Hub.

Shoot a resume to amanda at designtramp dot com.

I guess that's about it.

Tally ho!

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Blogging South

2009-12-04T06:17:00.003-05:00

We're off to SMBTV to sit on a panel about blogging.

Looking forward to sharing how it went in the next couple of days. In the meantime, go have a gander at the blog of one of the funniest people on Twitter.

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Talkin' Turkey

2009-11-22T10:29:00.003-05:00

Two weeks from now Amanda will be taking to the stage, kind of, as she sits on the panel for the 4th Social Media Breakfast-Tech Valley. SMBTV4 will examine:

What makes a successful blog? Is ghostwriting appropriate? How do you attract more readers? What kind of content do you write about? Is a blog right for every organization? How does blogging fit in to an overall social media strategy? Should CEOs and corporations blog?

Amanda will be there in her capacity as a founder of Trampoline and as a blogger— personally, professionally and unofficially. @amandamagee + @designtramp

The other panelists are:

Lara Kulpa, owner of Ginkgo Consulting and community admin for ProBlogger.com
@larakulpa

Christina Gleason, copywriter, blogger, and founder of Phenomenal Content LLC.
@christinagayle

Greg Dahlmann, the co-founder of All Over Albany.
@alloveralbany

SMBTV has taken the area by storm, with each breakfast selling out and having a lively stream of live tweets that run the gamut from best takeaways to funny asides. Amy Mengel puts each event together and serves as moderator.

The December 4th event, sponsored by The College of St. Rose Communications Department will take place at The American Red Cross of Northeastern New York . Annemarie Lanesey of MZA Multimedia will provide live-streaming.

For those not signed-up for the sold-out event, you can follow SMBTV on Twitter @smbtv or hashtag #smbtv You can also sign up for the waitlist.

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Judging Amy

2009-11-12T09:22:00.001-05:00

Stacey Mattison, Campaign Communications Manager at Skidmore College, asked Amy to sit on a panel for the Case District II – Council for Advancement and Support of Education judging how photography is used in college marketing materials. The other judges on the panel were Meg Marshall from FingerPaint Marketing and Tom Myott, a South Glens Falls art teacher and owner of Tom Myott Art and the Corner Gallery.

The panel worked together to narrow the entrants to the final 3, relying in the final stretch on the evaluation forms to declare the winner.

Stay tuned, though Amy knows who the winners are now- she won't tell us, they'll be announced in Mid-January.

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Free to Breathe

2009-11-11T11:43:00.000-05:00

Perhaps at the top of the list of things you take for granted: breathing.

You should be able to trust that every day you'll breathe, that your lungs will work the way they ought to, but it isn't always the case.

Not yet 30, employed yet uninsured, Tribune employee and Glens Falls Resident, Regina Rothstein found herself staring down a diagnosis of lung cancer (neuroendocrine carcinoid) on September 18th of this year.

One of her co-workers, a longtime friend and client of Trampoline, Melissa O'Sick, called us to ask if we might be able to help in some way. Unsure how to have the most impact, we decided to do everything we could in the time that we had.

First came t-shirts for those walking with and for Regina.

Colleen over at Ridge Street Coffee Company (1 Ridge Street in downtown Glens Falls) continues to sell the Regina t-shirts for $15 a piece— raising awareness and money for Regina as she battles this diagnosis with bottomless ferocity and zero health insurance.

Next came banners and markers to guide the way along the walk.

A poster to get the word out to hundreds of Tribune employees.

A spot on the web that directs people to a place to give.

Melissa O'Sick, Nicolle Burton and Regina Rothstein.

Team Regina's frontline.

Regina's Behind-the-scenes Team. A very special thanks to these Trampoline vendors who helped us complete this effort with minimal costs. They always work hard for us and produce quality products. This went above and beyond—we're proud of the work, humbled by their commitment and generosity.

Arca
A&M
GFprinting
GVHstudios

Breathe new life into this campaign, give to Regina and Team Regina.

Not always about winning

2009-11-10T11:08:00.004-05:00

We like to think of ourselves as nice, but the truth is, we're pretty competitive. Sometimes it's just challenging ourselves to be better, or it's competing within the studio and other times it's against other agencies. Recently we entered into our first New York State bid project.

It was a monumental undertaking for us, but felt as if something we should do. The entire Tramp team came together and worked in the most literal sense as a team, pushing, supporting, combining and executing things in a way that had the full strength of 8 different skill sets and talents.

It was intense, exciting and ultimately the single-greatest act of team-building that we have ever experienced. We are stronger, bolder and more aware of the value of each player than ever before.

All that said, we didn't get it, which kind of sucks. However, at the risk of sounding like an also-ran, the truth is, it was awesome just to compete. We can look back, feel damn proud of the creative and genuinely say, "We gave it our all."

Last Friday everyone got a little something as a way of rewarding their willingness to go above and beyond what was expected of them. Upon recounting the story to a nephew, one Tramp shared this:

So when I got home Friday Jacob said, "so how was work" in an annoying teenager tone, 'cause whenever I see him I ask him how's school. I said it was great and that actually we got a little bonus for our hard work on the state bid. Even though we didn't get it, the work and effort didn't go unnoticed. I said that it was such a nice gesture and how appreciative I was.

His response: "wait a minute, you got extra money for NOT getting a job? That's like sports teams, they lose the game but they still get paid. Not fair Aunt Amy."

We may not have a state gig, but the state of affairs here at Trampoline is this: Our team kicks ass and we are grateful for that every day.

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Go Big.

2009-11-09T11:41:00.006-05:00

Amy is known around these parts for her delicate and refined touch, some might even call it girlie. Underneath the pinks and paisleys, Amy had a fine trick up her sleeve, 74' of trick to be exact.

Long a hardworking yet unadorned part of our community, the Finch Paper Mill needed a sign. A very big sign. Amy worked with Beth Povie to get it just right and the folks at Sign Perfect hung it exactly to spec.

A big job, well done.

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Added Features

2009-11-06T16:26:00.003-05:00

It's fascinating to track waves, whether it's Lists to Twitter or campaigns to add a dislike feature to Facebook, it's interesting to see the landscape evolve. The thrust of change, easy or hard fought, seems to be coming from consumer or individual demands as opposed to business models or internal strategies.

"I want my phone to do this."

"I want this out of my plan."

"I choose not to work out of the office."

Whatever it is, people are taking the initiative to make demands and initiate a kind of compromise that is leaving some businesses behind. You can use advertising as an example in a very general sense, the idea of sticking to the same approach despite an evolving consumer preference creates a dead end. You cannot corral people into digesting their information a certain way, there are simply too many variables. The three or four tried and true arenas for marketing oneself are diluted. Mechanisms exist to circumvent advertising, preferences are honored and, quite simply, people are opting out in the literal sense.

So, does this mean a hamster-on--a-wheel existence of catering to external elements?

Hasn't customer service on some level always translated to that?

Or are we not thinking about it the right way?

What about imagining a way for it to work? A way to make the business run smoothly as it met, and maybe even exceeded, the expectations? I mean, when you get down to it, it's really kind of simple. The marriage is— your bottom line, your fulfillment and your clients.

The way to a harmonized trio would involve considering each one and taking pains to make sure the balance always stays fairly close. Can you think ahead and find ways to please people as you accomplish your own objectives?

So instead of running just to keep up, you veer a little off course, look ahead and carve a new way. Better, stronger, faster, cuter. Whatever. Just don't do it in a vacuum, don't pedal furiously only to find yourself alone. You are as entitled as anyone else to demand a better way, leaving behind what hasn't worked.

We're working on this. Strengthening relationships where it makes sense and extending our capabilities where we anticipate people (ourselves and our clients) needing to go.

It is scary and challenging, but the alternative is a much darker place, don't you think?

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Be Counted

2009-11-02T16:00:00.005-05:00

UPDATED: The Crandall Library Budget passed!

We all have something from our childhood that made a difference— for some of us it's a teacher, for others it's a place. Participating in campaigns for Crandall Library is an honor for us, as we know that one day, new voices will say, "Crandall Library was my place."

In 10 months, attendance is up more than 50% over last year's total. The library has seen a 70% increase in new borrowers in the 2009. And, 1,000 children read 20,000 books in the Summer Reading Program.

Knowing that we may have had a hand in helping strengthen the potential of legacy, well, it makes us feel powerful. Try it.

Halloween at Trampoline:

2009-10-28T10:02:00.002-04:00

Bond in a Box

2009-10-20T13:06:00.006-04:00

Secret Agents aren't the only people who need to go undercover, nursing moms are another group requiring a bit of extra stealth. Baby Bond is the latest product from Slurp and Burp, offering nursing moms and easy, washable, wearable, stuffable product for use on-the-go.

Creating the mark and packaging was a labor of love and the end result is proof positive.

The relationship with the Bell Harbor, NY company came from a successful and longing running partnership with SaraBear Company on everything from textiles to packaging and projects with KaBoost, another juvenile product company.

We'd be lying if we didn't say that we get a kick out of seeing BBQ sauce next to beer next to diaper caddies next to collateral for a lake saving organization. The different personalities and challenges they present are what make them so fun to work on.

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Call it the 13 Year Itch

2009-10-13T10:34:00.008-04:00

The Davidson Brothers Brewing Co. decided that after nearly thirteen years in business it was time to make their image as fresh as their ales. Rick and John Davidson wanted to position the company for success in the ever-changing distribution market. A brand overhaul began to help regional favorites like IPA, Irish Red and Brown Ale compete with the big boys in the beer world.

Their new look has also allowed the restaurant to participate in the emerging force of downtown Glens Falls, with merchants building a following through delightful whimsical window displays, sidewalk sales and a growing selection of choices.

T-shirts to tap handles, a new website to a Facebook page 800 fans strong, coasters to tabletops, the integration of the new mark has sparked an engagement, as the line between consumer and company has blurred. Each beer and each meal now comes with a shared sense of triumph, 13 years and going strong, the rewards of and for a community.

Db Merch is available online and at the Brewpub in downtown Glens Falls.
Look for coasters at a bar top near you (coming soon).
Ask your bartender to pour you a D.Bros. IPA. If he doesn't have it on tap, ask him why the hell not?!
Visit the brewpub online at davidsonbrothers.com
Become a fan on Facebook. Over 800 people have in the space of a month.
There's no substitute for stopping by the Brewpub (on Exchange St. Plaza in Downtown Glens Falls) for a pint, and a cup of the Stout + Cheddar Soup.
Heck, they even look good in frosting.

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Little bit of lake

2009-10-06T13:37:00.007-04:00

We all love the Adirondacks, some of us striking out on hiking excursions or gnarly bike rides, others of us hunting game and adventure. One area we all seem to agree on is the lake. Massive, magnificent and steeped in undiscovered delight, there isn't a Tramp among us who wouldn't jump at the chance to send some time on the lake.

When Peter Bauer, Executive Director of the Fund for Lake George, asked us if a ride on the lake might be valuable to our process as we produce illustrations for a project, the answer was clear: Yes!

Dome Island off the port side.

Setting up a shot on the western shore.

Shooting in Northwest Bay.

Heading south, with Tongue Mountain behind us.

Watching the team of eight divers remove the Eurasian Water Milfoil beds in Basin Bay.

Charting a course for protecting the lake.

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A Treat

2009-10-02T15:01:00.002-04:00

The Adirondack Theatre Festival is turning 16. They may not be naive, but we can honestly say that we're sweet on them. The theme for this year's Winter Benefit is: Sweet! As only the Adirondack Theatre Festival can, an evening of spectacle and delight will be fueled by "sweet" songs to herald the 16th year of incredible theatre in the Adirondacks.

It seemed fitting that the Tramp who most often exclaims, "Sweet," would be the source of the mark for the ATF Winter Benefit.

Can't wait to see what they'll do two years from now for their 18th!

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Rollin' on the river

2009-09-29T09:41:00.001-04:00

It's a dirty ride, but somebody's gotta do it. Promoting this area is something we are passionate about, cycling is another such thing.

Enter: Dieter Drake and the Tour of the Battenkill.

It's made a name for itself as one of the grittiest, gnarliest races in the United States. It needed a mark worthy of the challenge and beauty inherent in the race. Recently, the Tour of the Battenkill was recognized by Union Cycliste International and now appears on the UCI calendar for 2010. The race draws 1,500 cyclists and has grown into one of the largest one-day events in the country.

Mike traveled back to his glory days, drawing on thousands of miles ridden in dirt and dust.

Derek rode back in time to mountain paths and unforgettable climbs.

And in the end, they shared a moment.

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Sep-html-ber

2009-09-28T15:44:00.007-04:00

Our e-trigger has been pretty happy lately, with HTML emails going out for everyone from Tribune and The Copperfield Inn to a ghoulish little number we sucked out for ourselves.

If you have something to say, say it with all the tricks and treats you have available, because if you don't, someone else will.

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Goodisms

2009-09-25T07:56:00.003-04:00

We are parents, siblings, spouses and professionals. Our extracurricular pursuits run the gamut from cycling and swimming, to writing and walking. This blog demonstrates a pretty authentic balance of work and play, which makes sense, because when we started Trampoline, the idea was to be as much about great creative as it was to be a place to have fun and honor family.

It isn't always easy to find ways to explain the other side, to talk about the Saturdays into Sundays spent offering constant care and companionship for an ill relative or the frenetic mornings filled with snapping shot of preschoolers. Volunteering in the routine ways that so many of us do— coaching, mentoring, singing and more care taking, are all things that we do when we aren't at 196 Glen.

Sometimes, though, it's more. A donated chunk of time does more than help someone, it changes the person who gave it. Paula has been a non-practicing registered nurse since she joined Trampoline full time late last year. She has missed it, so when she suggested offering a week of her time at the Ranch, we all thought it was a great idea. We also thought we'd be lost without her for a full week (we were), but we gave a collective, "Go for it!"

During her time she shared things on Facebook and sent out Tweets, but a journal entry she shared painted it in a way that can't be surpassed. She's let us share it here in hopes that one of you reading this will be compelled as she was, to offer your time. She promises that it will be more than time spent away from your routine, it will be time unforgettably spent.

High Ropes

You know that feeling you get when you're high above everything? Whether it's at the top of a long climb and your looking at the view, or your taking off in a plane and are watching as things down below get smaller and smaller or even when you reach the top of the stairs and you turn around to look at something down below? You know that feeling... kind of a twinkle in your belly, a lightheadedness?

Well I experienced that today at the high ropes course at Double H Ranch in Lake Luzerne. I have spent the last week volunteering as a nurse at this wonderful camp for children with life threatening illnesses. Some are wheelchair bound due to their illness while others have illnesses that allow them to be up and walking around like the rest of us. Today it didn't matter which category the kids were in-they all went on the high ropes course. The wheelchair kids were removed from their chairs and placed in seats with ropes and carabeaners already attached. They were hoisted and guided up and into harnesses made especially for their seats. They were attached to the zip line and sent soaring through the air like eagles, flying and weightless. Peels of laughter and screams of joy could be heard throughout the forest as could the cheers from their fellow campers down below.

So that feeling, that "flying" feeling... I felt that today, only me feet were still firmly planted on the ground. I felt it though, just by watching these kids fly! I will remember it always...

The Real McCoy

2009-09-24T10:47:00.009-04:00

We've used them personally and professionally for years, so when they came to us for help, we were determined to give it our all.

The past several months have been a whirlwind of collaboration between our team here at Trampoline and the brothers O'Brien. The results, much like their service, are impressive.

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Tidbits

2009-09-23T15:46:00.002-04:00

Every once in a while it's nice to put out some things that may be of interest or assistance, like, "Guys, check the mirror, if you can see two inches of sock you need longer pants."

Or, "Ladies, just because you have ten fingers, you don't have to wear 10 rings."

Public service nuggets. (Or cattiness in sheep's clothing)

Anyway, a little round up of the links we found interesting:

Twitter shenanigans, phishing is cross platform.

Social Media can save lives.

Twitter do's and duh's.

Also, if you are in the area, and by area, we are speaking within a couple of hours, you should know that our friends at ATF, along with another friend, are presenting Second City in Rutland on October 16th.

Have a great day.

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Tight Pants & High Spirits

2009-09-15T16:44:00.001-04:00

Making Monday nights into something more in North Creek.

For the record, while you are welcome to wear them, the aforementioned tight pants refer to the players and high spirits refers to the general mood at Trapper's on Monday Nights. Points to Mike for his marksmanship, right on, man.

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The Force of Procrastination

2009-09-15T15:34:00.002-04:00

I've mentioned before the situation with iPhones here at Tramp Central. Just received this bit of footage from yet another round of iPhone horseplay.

It's how we stay young...

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Copper Memories

2009-09-09T11:33:00.001-04:00

A while back (seems like forever ago, management . hint-hint-nudge-nudge) we took the entire Trampoline team up to North Creek.

The goal was twofold— get everyone together in an environment that did not involve ringing phones, Krameresque disruptive visits or emails to respond to and learn more about the resort we were charged with rebranding. The Copperfield Inn has long been known in the skiing community, but has been shortchanged as far as a fun in the sun option. For us, with pool time and sunshine, it was 2 parts play and 1 part work retreat as we enjoyed firsthand the serene setting and relaxing amenities.

Having kids and spouses around made for a fun, if at times loud, experience.

We played as hard as we normally work and found that if you have the right group of people and the a great place to gather, sleep and smiles come easy and stay put until you've had your fill.

Not sure how long we'll have to wait before we can do it again, but I do know that we will.

CASH is Money.

2009-08-26T17:16:00.005-04:00

When the stars align just right you find:

A rockin' subject— the original man in black.
A game client— the consummate showman.
A Johnny well done— One piece at a time.

Catch a taste of the legend in Rutland, Vermont on October 10th, call 802.775.0903

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Tramps Like Us

2009-08-26T11:19:00.012-04:00

Mike went back to his Glory Days, whiling away the night to the energetic performance by The Boss. To say he's lit up like a kid at Christmas wouldn't begin to describe the triumph and exhilaration on his face from the experience.

He took a bit of video with his iPhone.

Rumor has it our friend and client, Peter Bauer from The Fund for Lake George got his groove on at the same show.

Springsteen is definitely money, but Cash is coming to Walk the Line.

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[Philanthr]operation: O.R.

2009-08-26T09:49:00.000-04:00

The Glens Falls Hospital Foundation is charged with raising money each year for the Annual Fund in order to facilitate the purchase of equipment integral to the hospital's continued success. Last year it was decided through a brainstorming session that tapped into the Board of Directors, staff and community opinion, that linking the next several Annual Funds together would allow for a greater sharing of vision along the path to raising the necessary dollars.

A significant portion of the focus was to be on infrastructure and tools used in the Surgical Suite. The idea to open the door and offer an insider glimpse into the people working and the visions being carved for the strongest Glens Falls Hospital was born with the campaign theme, "How We Operate."

Now, with everything on the table, from the need for improved HVAC to the rationale for moving toward a new frontier in surgical capabilities, the foundation has hit the ground running in order to work their magic to keep the hospital running more effectively with each passing year.

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What's in a name?

2009-08-20T09:40:00.000-04:00

Next to "How much weight have you gained so far?" we'd have to say "Have you picked a name yet?" is the most asked question during pregnancy and with 9 Tramplettes, we know.

Our own name has sparked many a question, which is why we take helping a client with the naming process very seriously. A business or a product is very much like a baby and the name you select; you have to like it because chances are you'll hear it more times in a day than your own name.

Recently one of our clients, Sara Carpenter, made a birth announcement of sorts, declaring the name of her new business. We'd traveled through three rounds of options complete with rough-sketch logos before she made her decision. Together we sat eliminating names for one reason or another, shooting off in new directions based upon information and opinions we wouldn't have had without the spirited discussions after each presentation.

It was with clarity, confidence and excitement that Sara called to confirm Qurve Learning as "it!"

We'll be back soon to explain more about what Qurve Learning is and how much it can do for human resource directors to medical practices.

Congratulations Sara!

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App-etite

2009-08-13T12:34:00.003-04:00

It became official less than 48 hours ago, Trampoline has gone iPhone-atic.

Three new iPhones, making it 5 iPhones and 2 Blackberries in the office.

As can be expected the addition of productivity enhancing gadgetry has resulted in a short-term diminishment in productivity.

This came from one newbie moments after the arrival of his iPhone:

SUBJECT: iPhone, Therefore I am.

If you need me at 3am I'll be at the kitchen table....

One of the more seasoned iPhone users in the office recently texted his wife a link to this article. She offers, in her own defense, "I don't bring mine to bed."

"What are you saying? I was using it as an alarm. And nightlight."

Mmm-hmm.

Thanks to CyberNetNews for the comic.

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Jumping Off Cliffs

2009-08-06T09:57:00.004-04:00

Two years ago this September, we had the privilege of announcing the arrival of Sandy Hutchinson's new book.

This time around we are happy to announce another arrival of sorts:

Jumping Off Cliffs is now available at Barnes and Noble.

Congratulations, Sandy!

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Rapidly Relaxing

2009-08-03T14:16:00.005-04:00

Trampoline Design.

The name is fun, the work is creative, but dang if we don't spend a lot of time with our fingers racing over keyboards and eyes burning at the monitor. Tuckered Tramps. Last Friday we turned the need for a radio spot for Sacandaga Outdoor Center into a chance to unwind.

Just like us to take our day of kicking back to some Class 4 rapids. Amphibious iPhone sleeves in full effect, i's dotted and t's crossed (jobs at the printer, websites live and photo shoots scheduled) we hit the Sacandaga at 2pm.

We were 11 strong and ready to roll, thanks to stormy skies we had the place nearly to ourselves— (Note to anyone: inclement weather should not be a deterrent, the river was perfect, from temperature to temperament!)

The radio spot is in-progress, but the memories and merrymaking are set.

ChicagHer

2009-07-31T14:52:00.006-04:00

Trampoline sent Amanda to BlogHer 2009 in Chicago. For those of you unfamiliar with BlogHer, just click the picture to the left and visit the site. Or just call anyone who was at the Sheraton on River Street as 1,500 texting, micro-blogging, social media-loving women commandeered every available outlet, seat and cranny of space and companies like Ford, Crocs, Nikon, Tide and Tim Gunn, PepsiCo and more courted them as sponsors.

Our objective was twofold, continue our immersion into the blogging and twittering realm and have another face-to-face confab with Leslie, our coding-ace from Catapult.

Snapping riverside glamour shots with Carson Kressley was not anything we expected, but as the show is called Look Good in Pictures, we'll assume that since they uploaded the shot Carson gave it the a-ok. #ApprovalAtLongLast

After the glitz and glamour of Carson and blogebrities like The Bloggess, the morning keynote had literary heavyweights Tina Brown of The Daily Beast, Ilene Chaiken creator of Showtime's The L Word and Donna Byrd of The Root. The discussion ranged from product endorsements— Subaru was the first company who said "yes" to The L Word, and how racy is too racy— Brown lamented that it is a reality that saucy pictures get the greatest hits, and Byrd spoke about the Professor Gates incident (pre-Beer Summit).

Chicago was a beautiful host city, with the grandeur of the Loop's Millennium Park and the magic of the Grant Park shell. Even caught repeated glimpses of one of our clients.

The 2008 BlogHer was equally impressive in the surprisingly chilly in the summer (should've paid more attention Mr. Twain*) San Francisco.

So for as beautiful as Chicago and San Francisco both were, we're pretty excited that in 2010 BlogHer will be setting up camp in Gotham City.

*Mark Twain: The coldest summer I ever spent was a winter in San Francisco.

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You Take the Good, You Take the Bad*

2009-07-30T15:17:00.000-04:00

Opinions on social media are a dime a dozen, and it would seem that the passion of the people who love social media is evenly matched by the zeal of the naysayers.

Social media isn't the silver bullet, nor is it the devil. It is simply a tool that you can use. There are organizations that seem better suited to it, whether for the audience they are trying to reach, the staff they have to devote to it or simply their desire to participate.

We are quick to offer that the results will be gradual and the time commitment significant. Can you think of anything that isn't? Maybe those little bath capsules that turn into sponges, that happens quick and with little effort, but the satisfaction, pretty short lived.

It really boils down to this— knowing who you are and what you are and reaching out to people. Doesn't have to be thousands of people. Far better to talk to ten listening people than shout into a crowd of a thousand who aren't.

We're lucky to have a vibrant community right here in the Adirondacks, whether it's looking north to these folks, or south to these folks. Anyone can participate in social media, it starts with hello, continues with listening and eventually blossoms into a conversation.

Let's get started. My name is Amanda @DesignTramp, what's yours?

*Did we mention our hold music is chock full of '80s goodness?

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Sing It

2009-07-30T11:32:00.003-04:00

No sense gilding the lily.

Marcella Sembrich Opera Museum = Exquisite

Amy Stevens = Elegant

Sembrich + Stevens = Design Harmony

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Supertramp

2009-07-23T00:03:00.016-04:00

Our design and our approach can speak for themselves, but the truth is it's the artists behind the mark and the message that make the magic. Here's a look [read: listen] at what's playing in our office on any given day.

Enjoy.

PAULA: American Girl

"Never Say Never" – The Fray
"The Climb" – Miley Cyrus
"American Girl" –Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers
"Her Diamonds" – Rob Thomas
"Funny the Way it is" – Dave Matthews Band
"You'll Think of Me" – Keith Urban
"Good Intentions"– Toad the Wet Sprocket
"Sometime Around Midnight"– Airborne Toxic Event
"I Saw" – Matt Nathanson

Check out Paula's picks.

SEAN: A List of Demands

"List of Demands" – Saul Williams
"Let’s Stay Together" – Obadiah Parker
"Sweet Lorraine" – Sammy Davis Jr.
"American Saturday Night" – Brad Paisley
"Novocaine for the Soul" – The Eels
"In the Meantime" – Spacehog
"In the Heights" – Original Cast Recording
"Least Complicated" – Indigo Girls

View Sean's playlist.

AMY: The Luckiest

"Then" – Brad Paisley
"The Luckiest" – Ben Folds
"It won't Be Like This For Long" – Darius Rucker
"Here I Am" – Lyle Lovett
"I'm Alive" – Dave Matthews and Kenny Chesney
"Summertime" – Kenny Chesney
"Short Skirt, Long Jacket" – Cake
"Everytime" – David Gray

Get Amy's music.

DEREK: Dark-Haired Delight

"Superunknown" – Soundgarden
"Recently" – the Dave Matthews Band
"Think I'm In Love" – Beck
"Not The Same (live)" – Ben Folds
"Cold Shoulder" – Adele
"London Calling" – the Clash
"Lost (w/Jay-Z)" – Coldplay
"Monkey Wrench" – Foo Fighters
"Love Buzz" – Nirvana

Listen along with Derek at home.

MIKE: The Boss

"Magnificent" – U2
"Machinehead" – Bush
"Dreamer" – Supertramp
"Tunnel of Love" – Bruce Springsteen
"10th Avenue Freeze Out" – Bruce Springsteen
"Cherry Cherry" – Neil Diamond
"Roll with the Changes" – REO Speedwagon
"Brass Monkey" – Beastie Boys
"Love You in the Fall" – Paul Westeberg

Make Mike's music yours.

TRINA: Do You Take This Playlist?

"Wishin' & Hopin'" – Ani Difranco
"White Wedding" – Billy Idol
"Going to the Chapel" – Dixie Cups
"Get me to the Church on time" – My Fair Lady
"Love & Marriage" – Frank Sinatra
"500 miles" – the Proclaimers
"Luck be a Lady Tonight" – Frank Sinatra
"Grow Old With You" – The wedding singer
"True Comapanion" – Marc Cohn
"Falling Slowly" – Glen Hansard
"Slow Dance" – John Legend
Say "I Do" to Trina's tunes.

AMANDA: Words Come Easy

"Crazy Bitch" – Buck Cherry
"Tomboy Bride" – Sally Taylor
"Can't Help Lovin' Dat' Man of Mine" – Jerome Kern
"These Foolish Things" – Nat King Cole
"Baby Girl" – Sugarland
"Stronger" – Kanye West
"So What" – P!nk
"Leave the Pieces" – The Wreckers
"The Good Stuff " – Kenny Chesney
"We Danced" – Brad Paisley
"Lookin' for a Good Time" – Lady Antibellum
Download Amanda's favorites.

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JMZ Architects

2009-07-15T14:40:00.000-04:00

It's up!

Not exactly a barn raising, but the creation of the JMZ site involved many capable hands and sharp minds.

It's a thrill to see it live. The next step is to stand back and watch JMZ continue their rise as one of the best firms in the region!

Thanks for letting us participate in a bit of JMZ architecture.

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Boys of Summer

2009-07-15T11:51:00.005-04:00

Once upon a time we created a logo for The Dome, back then our kids were tiny and the place was not yet a household name.

Fast forward a few years and The Dome is the sweet spot and our once tiny kid is a bona fide pitching powerhouse.

Atta boy, Ben!

Snag it, D!

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The extra mile

2009-07-14T12:31:00.001-04:00

Home. Life. Auto. Business. Crisis.

Kevin and John O'Brien. They cover our everything. It was easy to give them our all.

Here's to the first phase of our covering their needs: The new look of O'Brien Insurance.

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Fund 08 Annual

2009-07-13T14:00:00.001-04:00

It's a good thing we have The Fund for Lake George as a client, with this summer's weather, this report is the closest we've come to the lake.

As usual, with the Queen of America's lakes as our subject the piece and the Queen of exquisite design (Amy!) behind the mouse, it is stunning.

Here is hoping so much beauty will find its way into people's hearts and memories and become something they join us in protecting.

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IDEATE Launch Party

2009-07-10T15:59:00.001-04:00

It all began with an idea and belief that things could be better. Turns out other people agreed, and so it was that Ideate came to have a magical launch party in the wondrous backyard of one of its founders, Dave Duggal.

The celebratory clinking of glasses and soft hum of conversation was punctuated by laughter.

Dave and Ideate partner, William Malyk, moved as fluidly as their code, storytelling and listening as wave after wave of friend and collaborator arrived to celebrate.

The inspiration for Ideate was, at its core, people and the desire to speak directly to their needs. Dave did just that as he swept his daughter in his arms and delivered her to a waiting gaggle of little girls.

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Fresh

2009-07-07T11:33:00.003-04:00

Time for a mid-year sit-down. Three websites are going live in the next week, an annual report press check just completed this morning, a pending rebrand launch, not to mention 3 new blogs have kept us busy. We'll be setting up camp at a little known place some of like to call home.

Fresh salsa.

Build-your-own-sandwiches.

And time.

Here's to setting off for a summer with fresh ideas, hot creative and satisfying work. Thanks to our wonderful clients for a great first half of the year. We look forward to shaping what the next 6 months hold.

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Party of two?

2009-06-24T18:19:00.009-04:00

Two weeks ago The Copperfield signed Trampoline as their agency of record, two weeks from today their new restaurant will present its first dinner.

Lorenzo's al forno has been a labor of love, with center stage occupied by a custom wood-fired oven, which will be used for items on the menu created by Chef Stephen Topper. The atmosphere is relaxed, the setting is beautiful and the menu is influenced by Northern Italy and designed to evoke a sense of celebration.

Chef Topper and his team will devote the first two evenings of service to a hand-picked group of individuals. After receiving a penny for your thoughts invitations, these guests will reflect on their experience and help to inform the service of the official Lorenzo's launch on Friday, July 10th.

*

Do you take this mark?

2009-06-24T15:34:00.001-04:00

I do.

To new beginnings and happily ever afters.

The Copperfield's new mark and their first dance in WellWed.

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Tit for Tat, Tips for Twits

2009-06-18T13:54:00.006-04:00

No, we aren't calling you a twit. It's a little play on one of the biggest buzz words right now:

Twitter.

Everyone's doing it.

They are.

He is.

She is.

Of course they are.

And they are too.

Don't forget these folks.

A favorite of ours.

A lovely one.

Another goodie.

The funniest tweets ever.

This idea was sparked at Rotary as, in my role as GIT (greeter in training) I got the whispered aside: When they begin the pledge of allegiance you can stop, otherwise you'll be here forever. And honestly, I would have.

We thought, in the interest of practicing what we preach, we'd offer up the odd post (they're all a bit odd aren't they?) that gives a tip. So special thanks to Susan for today's tip, and now for a couple for you.

When "tweeting" — publishing 140 character or less posts on your Twitter account, put the @ symbol before a person's account name to alert them that you are referring to or directly addressing them.

People can then click a pre-set search from the right hand side of their Twitter homepage to call up all Tweets with @myname in them.

If you want to get on a current event band wagon, place a "hashtag" or "pound sign" ----> # in front of the word without spaces, e.g. #IranElection or #GoodGriefBillyJoelIsDivorcingAgain

This way people can search on http://hashtags.org to see all tweets about the particular term or can also search in the Twitter search, again on the right hand side of their Twitter homepage.

Tips are free. Twitter is free. And now you are free to dip your toe in the twater.

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Happily Up: North Creek

2009-06-17T19:21:00.010-04:00

It's fair to say that just about everyone is starting small talk with:

"So, how's business?"

There might be an awkward pause, either from a competitive spirit or a don't-want-to-jinx-it superstition, or maybe even just because small talk is awkward. Our answer tends to be a light-hearted, knock-on-wood, "Pretty good."

And it is, but in all honesty it's taken a few months to say it with feeling. We've kept our heads down and our energy up as we have managed relationships, worked through budgets and made a case—for advertising and for ourselves.

It's worked.

We have one client debuting next week to a receptive and excited audience.

We had another client travel to London and sign Oxford.

We received word on Thursday that The Copperfield Inn Resort has named Trampoline Design as their agency of record.

The next day their website, elegantly designed by the team at Mannix Marketing, went live. Today we hosted a strategy session at our office regarding the opening of Lorenzo's, a new Italian restaurant helmed by Chef Stephen Topper.

The entire staff of The Copperfield Inn Resort is watching the countdown and looking forward to opening Lorenzo's doors.

Located in the heart of the resort, Lorenzo's will feature flair in the culinary prowess of Chef Topper and his team, while literal flare will be on display via a sort of cooking-in-the-round approach with a wood fire oven.

Next week we'll take the entire staff for a Copperfield Inn Resort experience and look toward a summer of doing what we love for a place that, quite frankly, is easy to love.

To the Adirondacks, The Copperfield Inn Resort and to being able to say with conviction, "Things are great."

Now, that's an award

2009-06-12T14:04:00.004-04:00

On the heels of our Nori celebration, we find ourselves pondering awards.

Future contests to enter, sure, but even more intriguing, awards to hand out.

Best dilution of a message.

Best vanillazation of a concept.

Best creative hemorrhage.

Best logo hijack.

Best wow-who-knew-it-could-be-ruined-quite-so-comprehensively.

And for the Best in Show equivalent, the award for most consistently undervaluing the creative process and diminishing the worth of your own campaign by assuming you can do it better.

Bitter much?

Nah, only when we know how badly a worthwhile organization has shot itself in the foot.

#YouCanLeadAHorseToWater

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Hop On

2009-06-10T11:46:00.007-04:00

Tramps, it's what we call ourselves.

Beat 'em to the punch, right? It's not that we're loose or easy, just addicted to the process and willing to do it just about anytime and anywhere.

Design Tramps.

As is the way of tramps, we've seen inevitable change in the last year with people coming and going.

We're 9 strong now —

An elegant designer and type-purist in Amy.

A swift (of wit and wheel) and brilliant photographer/designer in Mike.

Funky, addicted-to-cool and perennial client favorite, designing principal Derek.

Unadulterated brilliance, savvy and irreverence in caffeinated codeinatrix Leslie.

Ideas, wordsmithing and comedic nerves shared in Tweets in new business development gal Amanda.

Enthusiasm, sarcasm and typographical one-of-a-kindness in the endlessly connected Erin.

Persistence, persuasiveness, and optimism in our flame-tressed production coordinator Trina.

A by-the-books office manager with decades of medical industry experience in Paula the whip-cracker.

Strategy, precision and a tireless pursuit of collective satisfaction in resident concept and song and dance guy Sean.

The writing is on the wall, sure some of it is our own after-hours Sharpie scribbling, but another message is clear:

Time to add a code tramp to the mix.

Not to get all serious and un-Tramp-like, but in the bandana tied to the signature Tramp pack should be:

• Ability to write standards-compliant XHTML and CSS
• Knowledge of PHP and other scripting languages
• Comfortable with object-oriented design
• Knowledge of SQL, including joins, views, and triggers
• Comfortable in a Linux environment
• Good organizational and multi-tasking skills
• Good time management skills

In addition to the requisite creative meetings at D-Bros, regroups at Ridge Street and slinging sarcasm, jokes and other levity in the studio, responsibilities include:

• Maintaining PHP web applications in a mixed environment
• Creating and updating MySQL databases
• Updating the content of existing web sites
• Diagnosing and maintaining workstations and servers
• Corresponding with customers

That all sounds so official. Yes and no. Becoming a Tramp is easy, staying a Tramp is the best kind of hard— equal parts gratifying, challenging and exciting.

PS Any good Tramp should be able to Flash.

Night & Day*

2009-06-08T09:06:00.004-04:00

It's not love (though we each have that) it's triumph.

It's a message well received
PR Campaign - American Lung Association

It's hitting the mark
Corporate Identity/Logo Design - Davidson Brothers Restaurant & Brewery

It's going big
Outdoor Billboard - The Berkshire Museum

It's the Mile High Club, ok, not really, but c'mon, how often do you get to write that?
Airport Transit- The Sagamore

It's serving it up old school and creating a sensation
Print Ad Campaign - The Sagamore

It's not the same old thinking
Holiday Card or Promotion - Trampoline Design

It's picking a fight on a t-shirt
None of the Above - Alta

It's winning, which we did seven times at the Albany Ad Club's NORI Awards on Friday night. The awards were for work you can see in the links above, in the categories of:

PR Campaign
Corporate Identity/Logo Design
Outdoor Billboard
Airport Transit
Print Ad Campaign
Holiday Card or Promotion
None of the Above <--- Multiple Choice, pick D.

There were seven of us from Trampoline attending the ceremony, one for each award. Despite a few awkward moments (feel free to stop by the office, we prefer dishing in person), we had a great time, but all things being equal, our most enduring high is from a happy client and an engaged audience. Those two things add up to something that carries more weight, and needs no dusting.

Here's to winning, no matter what the arena.

*With special thanks to Cole Porter in honor of tonight's Tony Awards.

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An Educational Study in Design

2009-06-04T11:23:00.003-04:00

We are proud to have graduated from in-development to successfully-launched. This week marks the debut of:

Ideate is an innovative software framework for research organizations to manage and optimize their operations. The work done to create an identity and launch the brand was intense; with the audience being a very specific segment of the academic world and the company presenting such an unprecedented research management tool.

After researching the industry and painstakingly distilling the message to create a brand identity that would convey progressive, reliable and human, the Ideate brand, complete with website, business cards and quirky illustrations, was born.

Congratulation on the brand graduation!

Twitterating Leads

2009-06-03T07:48:00.006-04:00

Sometimes you just have to give credit where credit is due.

Bill Gathen at High Peaks Resort has done an impressive job drumming up interest, business and a vibrant stream of Tweets thanks to his "Elevate Your Rate" promotion on Twitter.

The hook: Bill sends out a Tweet at some point between 8am and 8pm with an Adirondack High Peak and its elevation. The elevation is the rate that High Peaks Resort will be offering for reservations made in the following 46 minutes, a Tweet with Whiteface Mountain's elevation of 4867 would translate to a rate of $48.67.

The promotion caught our eye (and our fancy). We've since taken advantage of the rate in order to have a little downtime in the High Peaks. The promotion really works, with the people in front of us and behind us as we prepared to check in, were all there taking advantage of the Elevate Your Rate deal. A quick tour of Twitter shows lively conversations between about-to-go Twitterers and can't-wait-to-get-up-there Twitterers. Bill has also wrapped in an entertaining Adirondack haiku series and great links to things to do in the Adirondacks via his Twitter account.

Ultimately what he has done, and done well, is engaged an audience making use of tools available to him. Time will tell if the promotion translates to second stays, but right now it's pretty clear people are talking about High Peaks Resort and Placid is getting traffic from the efforts of a savvy guy in a great hat.

Hats off to you, Bill. See you again soon.

-The Tramps

Passing Fancy or Must-Have Tool?

2009-06-01T14:24:00.009-04:00

Sean loves to tell the story of a former boss scoffing:

"Internet? Bah, CB of the '90s."

I'm not sure I'd go so far as to call social media and all the tools that go with it "the CB of the new millenium," but I would say their power rests in the hands of the user.

Doer.

Participant.

This tool that is being bandied about by everyone from newspapers and corporations to celebrities and political figures, is another layer in the greater conversation. Because for all the talk about strategies and campaigns, social media comes down to people. If the people managing your social media are not invested, enjoying themselves or incentivized in some way, it will fail.

LinkedIn

Twitter

Facebook

Blogs

This new avenue for communicating is not a place for static messaging, it is an exchange*. Social media is listening and responding, engaging and affecting. Whether you want to counter a public perception of something or you want to gather information that enhances your ability to perform your job, social media can reveal new data, but you have to be social.

Social media has the potential to be an incredible tool.

It has it's doubters as any new(er) system will. But here is the rub—

If it isn't a passing fancy.
If it's more iPhone than CB.
If you continue to wonder about whether this really works...

How costly will catching up be?

*There's always some sort of disclaimer or fine print, right? Well, as much as we'd like to be the exception to the rule, we have to say this: Social media is social, unless you don't want it to be. You are in control, which means that if what you desire is simply to observe and gather information, you can arrange your tools in such a way that you are able to hear the conversations and people that interest you, or benefit you.

A Bird in Hand

2009-05-28T14:43:00.006-04:00

A while back we had a Thai restaurant on the first floor of our building. Every once in a while when we were back working late we could hear the raucous karaoke shenanigans of the staff after closing.

This morning we found a different kind of singing downstairs, squawking might be more appropriate actually. Just outside the Trampoline Design door was this little guy:

And while we're somewhat experienced with Finch, having visited its natural habitat and spent time with the family, and know a thing or two about the early bird, this one had us ruffled.

After some gentle inter-office debate about the circle of life, survival of the fittest and "Are you sure your Dad really rescued those animals?" Trampy O'Tweet made his way home to the Magees. Poor lil cuss:

If he can survive this:

He can survive anything.

Here's hoping that this particular Trampoline project takes flight.

For Tramp Tweets follow us on Twitter.

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A Cast of #140CharactersOrLess

2009-05-27T15:10:00.013-04:00

Some stories virtually tell themselves.

Whether it's through a newspaper Tweet:

An in-house plug:

Or a great new mark:

The ATF rebrand launch was an exclusive-to-Facebook
overnight sensation before its official roll out.

Leading by example, participating in the conversation, and creating a community, ATF has brought itself to life on the social media stage.

This summer they'll bring equity theatre to the Charles R. Wood Theatre
stage as part of the Adirondack Theatre Festival's 15th season.

Your winning ticket.

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Memorial Day- Updated with pictures

2009-05-22T12:48:00.012-04:00

The parade went off without a hitch,

well, except for that one very non-weinery dog,

but we're not here to judge, we're here to applaud the Rosas
and the rest of their weiner parade.

*******
The Glens Falls - Queensbury Memorial Day Parade is this Monday at 10am. We'll happily lose ourselves in the small town charm.

Our friend Kevin Rosa from The Sagamore will be a doggone delight with his dachshund parade:

Yes, we’ll see you at the parade…look for the 1st Annual Glens Falls Wiener Walk!...hosted by Woodstock Rosa…we might have close to 40 wieners in the parade…Classic!!...Kevin

After the parade we're liable to walk downtown to Davidsons for food, drink and reliable merriment. We'll talk about the parade and laugh with our friends.

It's not about the next deal or the latest trend, it's about life- the people in it and the way you live it.

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Family first

2009-05-20T10:35:00.002-04:00

We are in our personal lives, as in our professional lives, at varying stages but always with parallels that allow empathy and shared laughter. When we started Trampoline there were not yet 7 of us: The Slayton family of four and a newly married Magee couple with a Briar in the oven. Fast forward five years and we are more; professionally and personally. Our staff has grown to 8 and in total there are 9 Tramplettes.

This past weekend we gathered for Avery's 3rd birthday, with Mike capturing the event on film.

One of the original Trampoline babies, Julia, now a gorgeous young woman, charmed and delighted the youngest Magee.

Amy and Luke mugged photogenically.

Sean and Fin proved themselves consummate hams.

And Paula demonstrated that even off duty, she's on the ball.

We always said that we would put family first, but we never realized just how great, in size and value, our family would become.

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Come on Feel the Noris

2009-05-18T17:55:00.000-04:00

Yep, we're going to the Albany Ad Club's Nori Awards.

Yeah, we scanned the list from the front—

to the very back.

We know some of you didn't enter.

Others aren't keeping track.

*************************

The proof is in the hits;
whether that means visits to this blog
or creative that does the job.

See you June 5th (or not).

Forgetiquette

2009-05-15T11:41:00.015-04:00

We preach risk taking, or at least risk trying. We say things like, "If you don't stand out, where do you stand?"

And yet, call it a throwback to etiquette, some of our most wickedly delicious ideas for self-promotion go unshared. Or even just blog posts. The snark. The cattiness. The restraint we demonstrate.

I mean, we gave you Papyr-annoyance, but we didn't share the post, which sits as a legitimate draft in our cue, that goes a little something like, "Colored spectacle frames do not a creative make."

Then there's the Ultimate Design Rant Showdown that has in the left corner, weighing in at an impossible-to-quantify-level-of-professional-agony: Microsoft Publisher.

And in the right corner, decked out in head-to-toe, "Look, ma, I used the Photo Shop filter myself ," a logo created by a client's wife's stepson's girlfriend.

Cutting through this exceedingly dense exposition, we're done.

No more pussy footing around it. No more staidness for the sake of who-knows-what, or who.

They say we're too young. Fine, I'll take it after getting "Ma'am(ed)" one time too many at Hannaford.

They say Glens Falls is too little. Done, keep the congestion and queues.

They say we're too expensive. Between office-in-my-garage and mahogany and glitz-windowed excess, we're sitting just right.

They'll do it themselves. Have at it.

We're Tramps, whether we're your Tramps or not doesn't change the who or the how of our process.

What it will change is whether or not you have us working for you, or for your competition, instead.

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Trampoline Walks the Walk

2009-05-11T13:32:00.002-04:00

We talk a big game sometimes, but what might get missed is that we back it up with a genuine commitment to walking the walk. Saturday morning we got up and out before 9am to participate in the Rotary Pure Water Walk. It was great to be able to take part in an event that we have supported through the donation of our design time for several years running.

The trails were muddy, but the noble sound of the bag pipes was pure as we walked the ceremonial first lap;

We each participated at our own pace;

And in the end, we went home happier, healthier and better for having been a part of the event.

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Hop to it.

2009-05-11T13:24:00.006-04:00

A few years back Derek did a creepy thing for the Berkshire Museum, totally above-board, delight-little-fans-of-creepy-crawly-things kind of creepy. It was incredible.

He's done it again, the only difference is this time I loved watching it develop.

The Berkshire Museum's Frogs Exhibit, coming this June, is sure to have kids leapfrogging over one another to get a peek.

We caught a sneak peek of the banners on a trip to the Berkshires last weekend. Looking forward to seeing the real thing this summer.

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Fox in sox*, robot on box

2009-05-05T11:01:00.005-04:00

Finch Paper recently went through a rebranding initiative, which involved a major change in the design of their packaging, including their new digital line of papers. We were only too happy to devise an operator box. The result was a family of 4 digital paper cartons, and a "junior carton", all in various sizes.

*As much as I might like to make everything pro-Boston, this was in fact just a serendipitous bit of rhyming allowing for congratulating Derek-the-Yankees-fan on a job well done, while also dropping a wee bit of subliminal Red Sox love.

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Spring Cleaning

2009-05-05T09:17:00.009-04:00

We may call ourselves Tramps, but we're actually quite fastidious when it comes to our surroundings. We'd been meaning to take the time to spruce things up, from paint and reorganization to new light fixtures and furniture, but we've had the good fortune of being too busy. After a major push to wrap up projects for Tribune Media Services, Finch Paper and Glens Falls Hospital, we took a Thursday in April to roll up our sleeves, shut down our computers and get down to business.

Sean and Derek worked the front office, hanging new lights—

Inviting comparisons to Atlas—

Paula and Trina worked the backroom making the painting seem almost fun.

Tom Sawyer anyone?

John Stevens stopped in and as usual,

Laughter ensued.

All in all, it was just another day at Trampoline with everyone* pitching in, finding an element of fun and accomplishing a tremendous amount. Stop in and see for yourself.

*I was actually at Rotary for a great portion of the work day and was unable to contribute much beyond these haloed shots taken with my broken camera. I made the great error in judgement of wearing a wrap dress on the windiest day of the year. I wasn't an SATC fanatic, but these photographs rang true for me. Good times.

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Grainy Small Town Delight

2009-05-01T12:07:00.005-04:00

Walking back from a meeting with a potential client I made my way around the roundabout in downtown Glens Falls. Despite being overcast it's actually quite lovely outside. Out of nowhere came the sound of bagpipes. Bagpipes and screaming. A few steps down the street the what became clear, I never did figure out the why.

I was still smiling as our city's mayor held the door to the coffee shop for me. It's little things* like random parades of high schoolers and bag pipes that make living and working in Glens Falls pretty wonderful.

*Let's be honest, clean windows and snowflakes make me happy. What can I say, when you work with us you'll discover yourself smiling. A lot.

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This guy has a camouflage business card

2009-05-01T10:55:00.004-04:00

We're serious.

We are, to put it mildly, an eclectically matched group of individuals. Mike is classic Tramp material, with an appreciation for the absurd and irreverent, an eye for detail, and a mind for staying one step ahead of turkeys ;)

Since joining the team, and heightening the office Sox vs Yanks dynamic and coloring our world with a touch of camo, Mike has traveled seamlessly from on-location photographer to master 11th-hour-tweaker-of-details. He is a great hunter, father and artist, but for all his blending in he manages to stand out.

Ah ha!

2009-04-29T09:33:00.002-04:00

Spring in the Adirondacks is gorgeous.

Spring in the Adirondacks with clean windows is even more so*.

Pardon us while we delight in small miracles.

Carry on.

*Feel free to drop by 196 Glen to experience the view from Trampoline.

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Finch Casa Collateral

2009-04-27T14:07:00.006-04:00

Cooking can be a great metaphor, whether it's to illustrate the impact of ingredients, the value in presentation, or simply the motivation behind an action. When we talk about pairing Amy Stevens with Finch Paper, the results are elegant, rich and fulfilling. She is a chef, the computer her kitchen and Finch Casa* opaque her freshest ingredient.

Amy recently helmed the design of the Finch Casa Opaque print materials. The goal was to create a simple product brochure highlighting the environmental attributes of this particular grade of paper, as well as announcing the new extended line/product features as a "new class of house sheets."

Beyond that it needed to demonstrate how well the paper prints. Finlay, the printer of this piece, loves the paper as it gives their customers another option that works just as well as the higher more expensive grades. They have termed it "efficient." Here at Trampoline we're planning on using it for the upcoming annual report of a local conservation organization.

The theme was to play on the word "casa" and use images that tied it all together, "relax, it's beautiful, colorful, welcoming". The vineyard theme also came from the "environmentally friendly" aspect as she requested we show "green" imagery. The other goal was to educate printers about recycled logos, the benefits of sustainable forestry, and the FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) Chain-of-Custody.

*It might go without saying some place, but not here, "Casa" means "house." And "Estoy encantada a conocerte" means "I am delighted to meet you," which I'll be if you'd so kind as to introduce yourself by way of a comment here.

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Portfolio Review

2009-04-27T11:02:00.003-04:00

A few weeks back we got an email asking us to participate in the AIGA Capital District Portfolio Review. It was an exciting opportunity to meet with young people (How it pains me to say it that way) who love design.

We (Mike and Derek) buzzed down to Colonie post-work day and found ourselves at a truly enjoyable event, with peers we respect and a group of students with an impressive catalog of work. We're looking forward to the growth of the students as well as this local chapter of the AIGA.

Finalists announced

2009-04-21T16:49:00.006-04:00

10 nominations, results in June. Rock on.

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Trina & the Tramp

2009-04-20T11:21:00.005-04:00

We had a blast at this year's Media Night Coffee House, and raised money to help Feet First, a charitable organization that keeps good shoes on area kids. Ribbing and riffing with Troy Burns from Behan Communications, Bob Dillon from Ad Workshop and Maury Thompson from the Post Star was fun. As always, it was great to see Cathy DeDe from the Chronicle. Here's hoping that she'll be gentle with any reviews.

Ray Agnew wailed out an old Hollies number—as good as it was, it turned out he was just warming up the crowd for his son, Zane, whose rendition of Crazy Train brought the house down.

John Coleman from the Post Star marshaled a few friends for a little Neil Young, and a great version of The Weight.

We were happy to see a few Trampoline clients in the crowd. In fact Amanda, our videographer, has our performance neatly book-ended between the shoulders of Beth Povie from Finch Paper, and the aforementioned Ray Agnew from the Glens Falls Hospital Foundation. Special thanks to Kevin Quandt and family for coming out to support us.

Performance Anxiety

2009-04-16T10:13:00.004-04:00

It's time, again, for the 2nd Somewhat Annual, Occasional, Every-Now-And-Then Media Night Coffee House. As professional communicators you'd think we could reign in that title a little, huh? Despite repeated requests that we not quit our day jobs, we've been asked to sing, again, in a cabaret-meets-open-mic-night affair to benefit Feet First, a non profit, charitable organization that keeps good shoes on kids who need them.

Stop by, it promises to be, um, entertaining.

Our band numbers have dwindled. The lead guitarist left (E! True Hollywood Story Episode #345) and Derek, the tambourine man, is south of the Mason/Dixon line, and therefore unavailable for rehearsal. We're reduced to a neat little duet, which really means there are just less people to blame when something goes wrong.

Stop by at 6 p.m. April 18 in the fellowship hall of the church at the corner of Bay and Washington streets in downtown Glens Falls. Wordsmiths, designers and video masterminds who devote their leisure time to music, poetry or otherwise general wisecracking will be performing.

A tentative list of participants includes: Maury Thompson, staff writer for The Post-Star; Ray Agnew, vice president Glens Falls Hospital; the Trampoline Design house band; Glen Carlsen and Frieda Toth, freelance writers; Mik Bondy & friends from Behan Communications; Jessie Jackson, co-owner of WNCE TV8; The Barrel Brothers, featuring John Coleman, writer for Post-Star niche publications.

Hope to see you there!

Trina & the Tramp

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A Social Gathering

2009-03-26T11:29:00.002-04:00

Amanda spent Wednesday evening as the featured speaker for a meeting of the ARCC's young professional's organization. Having managed more than one blog for the past five years, she tallies about 500 visitors daily. Her use of blogs, Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn—combined with her firm handshake and in-person presence—drew a crowd of about 75 attendees. They listened to ideas on how to make social media work for their businesses, and talked about how to reach a new audience online.

Several in the audience asked us to post the data included in the presentation, and those folks will find some of the graphics below in this entry. Thanks to the Chamber for asking us to speak, to Mike for the photos, and to Derek for his monitor-lugging muscle.

Todd Shimkus introduces Amanda to the Young Professional's Organization.

Amanda stresses the fact that social media users can spot the same, tired old sales pitch from a mile away. And can avoid it with a simple click.

Hi, I'm Papyrus. I am not your friend.

2009-03-19T14:04:00.007-04:00

Enough is enough.

Despite our call to arms back in 2007, the typeface is still in circulation, perhaps even gaining popularity. This nearly illegible font is used, time and again, on billboards, menus, and packaging throughout our region.

This is upstate New York, people. Not Egypt.

Still not convinced?

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Bottoms Up

2009-03-19T11:33:00.004-04:00

You go into business to do what you love. If you're lucky you work with incredible people and enjoy perks— "Put it on the account" has a nice ring to it, whether it's shots at Ridge Street or pints at Davidson's.

We've just completed the Davidson Brothers brand update. Here's a taste.

Stay tuned for more.

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The New Dinner Party

2009-03-18T09:57:00.003-04:00

Every generation faces the threat, if not inevitability, of obsolescence. Digital natives effortlessly manage countless social networking systems from ever-smaller and capable devices alongside valiant digital immigrants. We are all of the latter group here at Trampoline, each with varying degrees of fluency.

Next week we'll be front and center at Dango's Dugout for a social media tutorial. It might seem odd at first blush to do this at a bar, but really, distilled to its purest form, social media is a conversation. And, you talk at bars, right? We find ourselves experimenting with iPhone apps far more often than taking pulls off drinks at bars. The chance to meet with members of the Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce's Young Professionals Organization seemed like a great excuse to start a conversation and, perchance, have a drink.

Every day the prevalence of things like Twitter is growing. Locally, The Post-Star is using Twitter, as are WNYT, WXXA, WRGB , WTEN. Radio stations like Fly 92 and politicians from Hillary Clinton to John McCain are on Twitter. Local organizations ranging from ATF and the Glens Falls Civic Center are on Facebook, while the Times Union has a staggering number of blogs.

It doesn't matter whether you are an individual or a company or tweeting from your cubicle, blogging on your laptop, or sharing your latest shot on flickr from your iPhone, as long as you participate. Are you in?

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Setting the stage

2009-03-12T09:28:00.005-04:00

Once upon a time a couple of the Design Tramps worked at the Williamstown Theatre Festival. A friend from WTF, Willie Reale, wrote a show called A Year with Frog and Toad, inspired by the Frog and Toad children's books written by Arnold Lobel. The show continues to play in regional theatres as frogs remain a creature that fascinate people of all ages.

Back in the Berkshires, the Berkshire Museum is hopping on the frog-wagon with the exhibit "Frogs: a Chorus of Colors," running from June through November. Derek Slayton, Design Tramp and rescuer-of-frogs-from-pool-extraordinaire, is generating materials that will leap* from the page to promote the exhibit.

A Ribbiting Exhibit.

We're looking forward to making the trip to Pittsfield this summer to watch the Tramplettes ooh and ah over what is sure to be a fantastic exhibit.

*To Amanda's chagrin, but in the Museum's best interest, Derek passed on the chance to tweak a Devo song as a way of exciting people about the Frogs: a Chorus of Color exhibit.

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Go West Young People

2009-03-02T15:12:00.013-05:00

Ok, so the young part may be a bit of a stretch, but the west part is true. Last month we divided and set out to conquer new frontiers, specifically the slopes of Alta as Derek and Paula (with kids in tow) met with the folks at Alta.

After meetings with the folks on the mountain, Derek also met with another client and friend of Trampoline, John Duncan. The skiing was great, the laughter was robust and the future looks promising.

Further west the Magees traveled first to Seattle, navigating past Pioneer Square and on into the thick of the industrial district and finally to the headquarters of BabyLegs. Finley sat in on the meeting and made the most of her BabyLegs-clad limbs to donkey-kick and flirt her way to making Nicole Donnelly, the bubbly mastermind behind the incredibly successful company, giggle. Talk ranged from packaging creative we'd done and photography to textiles, new directions and, ironically, Alta. Nicole sent us off with fresh BabyLegs and the delicious prospect of a BabyLegs project this spring.

After BabyLegs, a quick trip to a boutique for market research for TrinaBags.

Then it was off to Yakima to meet with the gang at Yakima Valley Memorial Hospital and MemFound. We arrived on the rollout day of the second of three programs for Employee Payroll Deduction. Spirits were soaring on the heels of a phenomenal first week. It was thrilling to see everyone so excited.

The participation in the program exceeded expectations and sparked talk of more t-shirts and additional deliverables. Turns out that vendors, patients and hospital higher-ups were also interested in purchasing gear. We were barely off the hospital's campus before we were dreaming up additional creative for the outstanding staff at Memorial and for the people who love the hospital.

Before heading home, the Magee girls made a dazzling appearance on the Capitol Theatre stage and a conversation about a social marketing campaign was sparked. Somewhere between the girls and their baby boomer grandparents, there is an entire audience yet to be reached. We're looking forward to the prospect of setting the stage for the Capitol Theatre to become a place of magic for millennials and gen exers.

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Design, baby.

2009-03-02T12:28:00.006-05:00

The trajectory of Trampoline has been mirrored by the thrust of our lives, with personal experiences informing a lot of what we do and sometimes influencing the who and the how significantly.

With a staff of seven and between us 9 Tramplettes ranging in age from 4 months to 11 years, working in the juvenile industry is not just fun, it's kind of where we live. And so it was a treat this winter, to wrap our minds around the newest product from Missy Reder accomplished inventor and entrepreneur.

After an in person meeting and many spirited email volleys a name was born: BabyBond.

One part nursing cover, one part burp cloth and all parts practical. BabyBond allows moms to nurse discreetly, while babies can still look around, flirt, whatever. If you don't believe it, take it from this nursing mom who flew to Seattle (to meet with BabyLegs owner Nicole Donnelly), it works.

There wasn't a single "Oops," or "Surprise!" The efficacy of the product combined with the incredible packaging that Amy Stevens, resident creator of all things elegant and lovely, dreamt up, are sure to position BabyBond as the mother of all nursing covers.

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Off the market

2009-03-02T12:12:00.004-05:00

This has nothing to do with real estate. Today's announcement is about something with an ever increasing value: Trina, a songstress, seamstress and Seuss-smith.

All of us at Trampoline would like to give Trina and Kevin our warmest congratulations on their recent engagement. If anyone ever deserved happily ever after, it's the two of you.

Cheers!

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Singular Purpose X2

2009-03-02T06:00:00.001-05:00

We all have to wear different hats from time to time. Typically as conditions change, presto chango, you switch seamlessly from one to the next. Sometimes it's not a hat, or a person...confusing?

Let's try this again. Double H Hole in the Woods Ranch was one of our first clients. We recently wrapped up a project for them and it was necessary to ensure that the piece could do double duty: an annual report for two years.

The purpose of the annual report was the same as it has always been: supporting the mission of Double H by illustrating the work that had been done and demonstrating the kind of inspirational work that elicits an emotion. The end result is that those who view the book will feel compelled to give, with volunteer time as precious as financial donation.

Working closely with Linda Smith, we developed a system that would work on its own.

Two covers, two stories and at the heart of both, the artwork of the beautiful souls who find a limitless world at the ranch.

This project was a pleasure, sharing our Business Manager, Paula Slayton, also a registered nurse, for a week at the ranch this summer will be an honor.

Thank you, Double H, for allowing us to be a part of your enduring gift to the people of this community and the campers you welcome year after year.

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Especially Beautiful Philanthropy

2009-03-01T13:33:00.000-05:00

As March arrives and dirt-tinged snow blankets everything, as forecasters call for more snow, it's easy to get the late winter doldrums. Sometimes looking at something pretty is all you need to forget the slushy streets and grey skies.

Take a load off and just daydream for a minute, if you feel so inclined visit the Annenberg Foundation, the client that commissioned these postcards and packaging, and be swept away by the inspiration of an organization making a difference.

Henna tattoos in India.

Croker Bay and the Zodiac.

The Wolong Panda Preserve.

Greenland's Ilulisat Glacier.

Outside the Dickey Orphanage in Lhasa Tibet.

Arctic Bay Icebreaker off of Baffin Island.

Petra, Jordan.

Potola Palace pilgrimage

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Photography that rocks

2009-02-26T11:03:00.000-05:00

Champlain Stone as captured by Mike Sylvia on dark and chilly night. Mike's got mad skilz, yo.

Once upon a time he also created their logo. That's all for today's edition of bragging about the talents of our employees.

And, scene!

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Changing Gears

2009-02-23T13:32:00.007-05:00

It's no secret that we love the chance to accompany a client from start to finish. Every once in a while an opportunity comes along that is dripping with just enough cool that we don't mind drafting. Case in point, Saratoga Springs based Serotta is adding a new model to their line-up of quality handmade bicycles called the Classique Ti.

We happen to think Serottas are pretty amazing bikes, so we were more than happy to supply the imagery for both the polished and matte finish options of the bike for use on their website and for dealer support.

As we expand Trampoline, adding a photo studio and additional offices into the high-ceilinged, brick-lined space behind our existing operation, we may just have to add a bike rack.

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Current Events

2009-02-22T13:54:00.003-05:00

The Fund for Lake George has put a simple statement out there to the public: Save the Streams, Save the Lake. Over half of the water in Lake George comes from streams. Streams that wind their way through clear cut construction sites, past overdeveloped parking lots and under streets crusted with salt.

The Fund and the Waterkeeper are urging the Lake George Park Commission to definitively establish a buffer zone to keep Lake George safe from pollution. While Peter Bauer, Chris Navitsky and Co. have stated that they are not anti-development, just anti-pollution, their campaign to elevate awareness of the stream buffer issue has been met with resistance from property owners in the watershed.

We'll see what the Park Commission decides. Until then, the advertorials below and the e-newsletter above should demonstrate what side of the issue we come down on.

Don't runoff without learning more. Give the Fund's Stormwater video a look. It's up on YouTube.

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Finding Your Niche

2009-02-20T11:08:00.004-05:00

Do what you love and the money will follow.

A fine sentiment, but as an illustration major or a theatre major or pursuing a degree in nursing—you quickly find that, well, love often hurts and, in liberal arts cases, certainly never pays. Luckily we all found our way to each other and Trampoline was born. Our niche is making it happen, whether raising money for a capital campaign, building awareness, or just getting a laugh, we winnow our way to the heart of the message.

Do you know your niche? Does your audience? Sometimes it pays to step back and take a long hard look at where you are, what you are doing and how you're doing it. Case in point, the anonymous woman in the window. Her niche isn't going to pay off in anything more than water cooler mockery.

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Snowy Street scape Sparks Creative

2009-01-31T09:21:00.004-05:00

Nothing like working in a snowglobe to bring out the creative*.

(Or the wild-eyed-gang-sign throwing side of certain members of the team.)

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Food for thought...

2009-01-29T13:22:00.004-05:00

New York City-based Slurp & Burp® has developed a new product with a patented design that allows a mom to nurse discreetly without covering her baby. Michelle Reder, the inventor and entrepreneur behind the effort, came upstate to Trampoline for help with a name and identity. After three rounds of suggestions, BabyBond emerged as the favorite.

Luckily, there are two nursing moms and a talented seamstress on the account.

The BabyBond is a loop of layered cotton material that is worn like a sash over one shoulder of the mother and under her opposite arm- please refer to wearing instructions. The patented design allows the mother to be covered and the baby to be uncovered.

I donated back to the Hospital and all I got was this, um...actually, wait. I might just wear this.

2009-01-12T16:55:00.005-05:00

The Development staff at Memorial Hospital in WA asked us to develop a series of Tshirts for their employees who donate a portion of their income back to the organization.

They had three criteria: The shirts needed to be blue, to reinforce Memorial's internal Into the Blue initiative. They asked for long sleeves, so that nurses could wear them under scrub tops. And they had to be, well, good enough to actually get worn.

Click on the images for a larger view.

Cure what ails you:

2009-01-09T16:09:00.004-05:00

'Nuff said.

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The higher we'll bounce

2009-01-06T13:21:00.014-05:00

January can be a grizzly month; with potent holiday hangovers, gray forecasts and general blahness pervading the workplace. Not so, here at Trampoline. We're heralding the new year with a fresh hire, a sweet return and a natural evolution.

Fresh to the Trampoline team is the seasoned and sensational Mike Sylvia. An accomplished photographer, designer and strategist, Mike has been hired as Creative Director. Officially just two days in and he is already handling accounts and clients with ease and finesse. His handling of the rest of the staff is as if he's always been with us: helpful, sincere and wickedly sarcastic at just the right moments.

Not to leave anyone out, we must also note the return of Amy Stevens from maternity leave. While we're all proud of what we managed in her absence, she takes the cake for her exquisite daughter Ellie, not to mention the speed at which she has jumped back into things taking on The Sagamore, Slurp and Burp and a few of our own little things.

After five years of working behind the scenes, pitching in, cheering on and just generally wearing whatever ~~unpaid~~ volunteer hat was necessary, silent-on-the-surface-partners, Paula Slayton and Amanda Magee officially joined the Trampoline team. Paula will be the face of the agency as she greets clients from her desk in the heart of the office. Managing the books and handling aspects of account management, Paula will be an agent for streamlining the Trampoline process (she also boasts an arsenal of zingers that keep us laughing and humble.)

Amanda will continue to copywrite and manage accounts, but will now be handling new business development. She'll also continue to cultivate infamy for bounding up the stairs loudly and running to every appointment.

Next up: the completion of our new website, some exciting prospects, and more of our trademark Trampoline creative.

Happy new year to your and yours.

Happy Boxing Day

2008-12-29T11:50:00.003-05:00

A Bear of a Client

2008-12-15T17:22:00.004-05:00

Just wrapped up a holiday promotion for a client. The fastidiousness of this particular client, from type treatment and color, to message and approach was, in a word, exhausting. We went round after round trying to get it just right.

"No, no, no, too grey, it needs to be warmer."

"Meh, I'm not feeling the graphic."

"We absolutely have to do the custom band."

"Let's do 50."

"Make it a hundred."

"Change 'chump' to 'freeloader' and then it's good."

"I just really prefer 'torrent' to 'barrage' in this case."

I'll be honest, there were moments when I doubted we'd be able to get it out on time, but just before the refs called it, we eked out one last swing. And so, without further ado, the Trampoline Design* holiday promotion.

*Yes, we are our own worst client. Thank goodness this only comes once a year.

5 Years Strong

2008-12-15T17:12:00.003-05:00

Here we are, five years later. Our offices have changed, growing and reflecting a greater body of work, our families have changed, one growing and the other entering the, gulp, teen years. The approach we take to design and messaging has changed very little, we weave honesty, daring and irresistible design into every project. We are at once humbled and proud of these first five years. We are looking forward to the challenge of continuing to stay fresh, relevant and, simply irresistible (or cheesey). C'mon, you love it.

Click here to see us at our start.

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Artful Repurposing

2008-12-10T09:17:00.007-05:00

The white, winter wonderland concept was a little overdone—and conjured images of a snarling Billy Idol. The Berkshire Museum wanted to stand out, to present a different kind of holiday extravaganza. What better way to do it than to go green in the whitest time of the year!

This year's Berkshire Museum Festival of Trees is green— abundant with incredible artistry using sustainable materials and presenting an earth-friendly, eye-dazzling display of holiday cheer.

Billboard

Exhibit Panel

Gala Invitation

Go Green!

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Breathless

2008-12-04T09:25:00.003-05:00

Winters in the Adirondacks can be rough, the whole, "you can see your breath" thing loses its charm after, oh I don't know, three days. It's probably not a turn of phrase that anyone suffering with asthma really appreciates as they can't catch it, let alone see it.

A while back we mentioned a project we did with the North Country Asthma Coalition. This morning we received word that people can now see how to catch their breath in a bigger-than-life fashion.

Here's hoping this campaign helps kids in the North Country Ease Their Wheeze.

70 Years of Powder

2008-11-30T15:14:00.002-05:00

A 70th wedding anniversary is recognized with gifts of platinum, while cotton is assigned to the second year of marriage. This being our second year working with Alta, cotton fit the bill as we designed t-shirts to celebrate Alta's 70th. It was an easy assignment to tip our hat to 70 years worth of powder: as precious as platinum and every bit as beautiful.

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