March 29, 2024. Many people throughout the world were preparing for the holiday of Easter, but I had my own plans. As March was drawing to a close, a local event was finally ready for its first appearance. 

This event? Rorycon. 

For those unfamiliar with Rory, you can find him at home here at the Etownian, doing what he does best! You can always identify him by his numerous adorable outfits, perfectly green self and friendly demeanor.

Through the many issues of the Etownian released over the years, Rory has gained quite the cult following, culminating in this wonderful event. The fans have been asking for it for months, and finally, Rory delivered.

Rorycon debuted this year with an outstanding attendance rate, far exceeding the anticipated show out by over 200%. People were drawn in by the allure of the various activities including a Rory themed ball pit, a concert held in honor of Rory, a meet-and-greet with Rory himself and various tasty treats, all handpicked by Rory.

Upon arriving at Rorycon myself, I was privileged to have a backstage press pass to skip the line that nearly circled the building. I was able to glimpse the hard work and dedication given to this event by the staff workers.

My first stop at Rorycon was, of course, the ball pit, to see if it held up to the marketing, which claimed it was “The best ball pit you’ve ever seen, felt or even heard of.”

After spending some time soaking in the grandeur of the pit, I can absolutely confirm that it is a glorious sight. However, I was not going to let all my time be spent on that bottomless pit.

I moved next to the arrangement of foods being served in his honor, from which I was able to select a vast variety of delectable morsels. Every food option at Rorycon was handmade, fresh and with the warmth and love you can expect from the chef’s hand chosen by the wonderfully incandescent amphibian.

As the day drew on, my time in the radiance of Rorycon was dwindling. I, fortunately, was able to attend the musical performance put on by the angelic voices of our very own Elizabethtown College students!

Through their voices I could truly feel connected to Rory and understand the true depths of Rorycon. As they regaled the audience with hit songs such as “Rory is King,” “It Ain’t Easy Being Green” and “Rory is King (Reprise)”, I was stunned by their angelic voices.

As one onlooker said, “I feel at one with Rory, and through his froggy nature, I have found peace.”

Finally, I was able to join the meet-and-greet where I waited in line for a miniscule five and a half hours. Unfortunately, I am not able to properly explain my meeting with Rory, as I seem to have blacked out shortly after making it to the front of the line.

Despite that, I can always depend on Rory to be in the Etownian every single issue, there to tell me a comforting joke, or amuse me with his silly outfits.

If I had to sum up the event in a single word, it would be: “Rory.”