As the Carolina Panthers get ready for their first home game, local businesses are gearing up to welcome the fans and the big bucks they will bring to the Uptown area. Nefelie’s manager Wiilliam Duffey says, “10 times over, honestly it’s insane. You would be surprised how 200 people look in a bar this size, it’s not a big bar, you have 200 people slammed and your busy.” Nefellie’s is just minutes away from Bank of America Stadium and welcome the big business. “With close proximity like you said it’s alot easier buy stuff here go to the stadium, a lot cheaper , people save a lot of money, says Duffey.” Thousands of fans are expected at the panthers first home game. Local business owners say there ready, sort of.. “Excited, repudiation is the thing that comes to mind because you have a standing room only bar 300 people walking in and out a little nervous but definitely excited,” says Duffey. Across the way at the French Quarter Bar and Grill. General Manager Angelo Tsepelis says “It’s going to be a madhouse, it will be a madhouse tomorrow, and we’re looking forward to it.” But he also says the early game time hurts alcohol sales just a little. “Unfortunately, the game is at 1 o’clock so you can’t drink until 12, so it kind of hurts business a little, but its better after and before the game, at a 1 o’clock game its just all food.” And for fans headed to the big game here’s what you need to know: You cannot bring in alcoholic drinks or selfie sticks. Fans will be able to carry the following style and size bag, package or container at stadium plaza areas, stadium gates or when approaching queue lines of fans awaiting entry into the stadium: “Β’ Any transparent plastic or vinyl bag no larger than 12″ x 6″ x 12”. “Β’ Small clutch purse no larger than 4.5″ x 6.5”. “Β’ Seat pad that does not contain zippers, clasps, etc., and is not encased in vinyl. “Β’ An exception will be made for medically necessary items after proper inspection at a gate designated for this purpose.
