_Thanks so much for taking my question ("Dan vs. Dave") in the last Mailbag. And thank you (!) for making me a Friend Of The Mailbag. I know you select someone each week, but I'm not exactly sure what that actually means_ **— Josiah, Green Bay, WI**
It's a position of high prestige, that requires you to walk through life thinking of others, doing your part every day without expectation of praise, remembering that we're all human beings with wants and needs who deserve a little grace now and then, and understanding that at the end of the day, this is supposed to be fun. Mostly, be part of a community. Spread joy whenever possible, help people out when they need it. It's not easy, but it is simple. If it was hard, I couldn't do it.
Also, it means you get a cool T-shirt.
_What happened to the inflatable Sir Purr?_ **— Katie, High Point, NC**
Still in the closet, but that's a vintage garment at this point, so you can't wear it all the time. Unlike a cool T-shirt, if you're fortunate enough to own one.
_Hi Uncle DG, I know that these things are down the line, especially training camp. But I got to ask with the excitement and anticipation for the upcoming season, are the Panthers planning on hosting a draft party at Bank of America Stadium? And also with regard to training camp, is there any chance that back to camp first Saturday practice will be open to the fans, either at Bank of America Stadium or maybe even in Wofford or Clemson? Thanks, and let's go, Panthers._ **— Shaked, Charlotte**
I haven't heard any plans for a draft party (haven't had one since 2023, when they had the first pick, though we've traditionally greeted the pick here the next day in an open-to-fans event), and it's way too soon for training camp. Fan Fest is still a thing, though, so stay tuned closer to camp for more details on that.
The excitement around the team is real, though, there's no doubt about that. That's something they've earned by doing the work.