Oh My Mahjong travel set
Lake Highlands Women’s League volunteers will host a mahjong tournament in September, but you’ll want to sign up quickly. The “Ancient Game of the Mandarins” is enjoying renewed popularity, and slots are filling up fast.
In Chinese, mahjong translates literally to “sparrows,” which are depicted on traditional mahjong tiles along with dragons, bamboo and other symbols. Theories abound regarding the naming of the game — perhaps it is the clattering of the tiles which sound like noisy sparrows, or maybe it’s a reference to Chinese philosopher Confucius and his well-known love of birds.
Mahjong was introduced to the United States in the 1920s and — aside from being great fun and bringing friends, old and new, together — is known to keep players’ hand-eye coordination sharp and cognitive function strong. The game is challenging and requires concentration, but luck plays a significant role in the outcome, meaning every player has a chance to “mahjong” every time she draws her tiles.
The Lake Highlands Women’s League tournament kicks off at 7 p.m. Sept. 19 at the KayCee Club, and participants may purchase a full four-top table or play as an individual. One person from each of 32 tables will advance while the others continue to play. In the end, two final winners will be crowned “mahjong champs.”
Tickets may be purchased online here ($400 for a table, $125 for an individual), and each player will receive two drink coupons, one raffle ticket, heavy appetizers and dessert. Prizes will be provided by The Mahjong Line, Peace Love Mahjong and Bam Bird Boutique. The grand prize will be a travel tile set by Oh My Mahjong.
Proceeds will be used to distribute grants and scholarships for local nonprofits and LHHS students. Last year, LHWL gave away more than $200,000.
LHWL’s Lisa Schmiedeke can answer questions at lisaschmiedeke@mac.com. The KayCee Club is at 10110 Shoreview.
