A Message to the Orlando iX Community

I write this unedited, stream of conscious ramble while still in the adrenaline and VR hang over I received at this years iX conference. I finally feel back amongst the living after three days of networking with a most incredible group of passionate people I am fortunate enough to call my friends.

So, let me thank everyone who took the time to attend and especially those that volunteered their time to speak, present, educate and represent our community. We know who we are but it was especially gratifying to hear the out of towners comment on your friendliness, passion and welcoming attitude that you displayed.

Let me thank David Glass, Christa Rensel, Stan, Adrian and Clayton for the many hours they devoted to making the conference a success.

As I reflect on the events of the past weekend I try to add up the amount of combined volunteer hours our community provides to help promote and educate our cause. I hope to continue to provide a voice for your efforts. They say that those that can't do teach. In my case it's evangelize. You welcomed me into your community 12 years ago and I am continued to be amazed not just with your technical brilliance, but your willingness to give back and help others. I often say game developers are the most benevolent society of people I have been able to work with and this weekend you proved me correct once again.

We have a lot of work ahead as we continue to try and unite and promote Orlando as a top tier destination for gaming and interactive entertainment. I believe if anyone can do it we can. When the passion is strong it's hard to hold it back and passion is something we have a lot of.

We have many exciting events and meet ups planned for the near future. Otronicon - is right around the corner and watch for an EA sponsored group who's focus will be diversity and opportunity.

Finally it is my hope that we will be able to continue to work together and find away to unite and establish the Orlando Game and IX Association as an organization that will provide a one stop platform for all gaming and IX related issues and topics here in Orlando. I for one hope to continue to provide a voice to help promote and educate and I hope you will join me as we continue to fight the fight. You welcomed me into your community 12 years ago and I don't think I have ever enjoyed working with a group of people as much as I have enjoyed working with you.

That said, as always, I AM STANDING BY. Let me know your thoughts, ideas, goals and most of all your passions. It's true what they say - If you don't have good dreams, all you have are nightmares.

@RobCoble - rwcoble@gmail.com