Hey Mark, did you know Sheldon Menery personally? Do you have any anecdotes or memories that you can share with us?

I’ve known Sheldon for twenty-five years. During that time, he’s worn many hats, accomplishing an amazing number of things for one man. The story I’ll share is when he came to work at Wizards. It was on his bucket list, so he arranged to come work for us for three months. This was a bit before the pandemic. (He worked on the Strixhaven Commander decks to give some sense of time.)One of my goals when I learned Sheldon was coming to Wizards was to take some time talking with him about the design ramifications of certain Commander decisions. We have to design cards for Commander, so I wanted to help him see how choices the RC makes impact how we design cards.Sheldon always took our talks very seriously, and was eager to learn as much as he could. Those one-on-one talks were probably the most concentrated time I ever had with him, and I remember them fondly. Over the years, he and I would argue a lot, but they were always constructive arguments where each of us was working hard to understand the other’s point of view and trying to move towards a constructive outcome. It’s so great seeing all the outpouring of emotion today. Sheldon touched many lives, and forever changed the game of Magic for the better. He deserves all the kind words being shared. Rest in Peace, Sheldon. You made a huge impact on the game, the community, and the world.

You mentioned your "Magic bucket list" a couple of days ago. After clearing away everything that's a spoiler, what's the top item or two left on that bucket list?

I want to go to a Magic event in China.

I have a birthday coming up in a month. Last year I had a party with "puzzles and games" as the theme. It was a blast. Since you're a theme party thrower, could you suggest a theme for my party this year.

Your bucket list (things you’ve always wanted to do but haven’t done yet).