Friends,
I am sorry to announce that I will be taking an indefinite leave of absence from That’s Another Fine Mess effective immediately. Over the last year of my life my professional responsibilities have grown enormously, and over the last two months it has felt like there is not enough time in the day to accomplish the things that need accomplishing. Unfortunately this put me in the difficult decision to choose between two of my biggest passions, politics, and my career in the video game industry. After much deliberation and consultation with those closest to me I have decided to further pursue my career within the video game industry.
Words cannot begin to express the gratitude I have for the various experiences I have had since co-founding this endeavor with Tom in April of 2005. When we started this site I simply wanted a platform to express my thoughts and never in my wildest dreams could I have imagined that we would receive coverage from major newspapers, websites, magazines, and other blogs. As pleased as I am in knowing that some of what we created here did receive mainstream attention, I am most grateful for those loyal readers who checked in with us every day to see what our thoughts were.
I also can not express the thanks I have for my colleague, friend, and mentor Tom. Tom taught me the art of blogging, the power of the written word, and the importance of exchanging ideas. I know that TAFM will do well under his eye.
Perhaps the biggest thing Tom taught me was the importance of remaining true to your beliefs. Although I have entered the business world and have this insane desire to be a part of the best video games on the market, my liberal beliefs are still with me. I will always believe that the lowest paid employees should be making more. I will always believe that as long as we have to pay for insurance in this country that the companies we work for should be footing the bill. Lastly, I will always make sure that regardless of what position I have or where my office is located that it is open to all of my colleagues so that they can come in under any circumstances. Liberalism and compassion go hand in hand, and I believe both need to be a part of the business world, regardless of the industry.
I wish you all the best, and who knows, you may just hear from me from time to time.
Ryan Oddey
