A new generation of American mahjong players emerge in Charleston
The table is set for American mahjong, friendship, community + giving back. | Photo by @chsmahjsquad
Bring on the tiles, stacks, and sequences. There’s a new game in town — well,American mahjong isn’t actually new (mahjong was created in the 19th century in China whereas American mahjong is from the ~1930s). What is new? Groups around Charleston dedicated to growing the game.
These groups breed fellowship, friendship, and a little competition, and host events like neighborhood get-togethers, bachelorette parties, and community experiences. Over the next few months, we’ll introduce you to some of them.
The group breeds fellowship, friendship, and a little competition.
First up, we’re exploring CHS MAHJ SQUAD (CMS), a group created in 2023 by four friends — Lori Adelman, Julie Hellman, Debbie Rothschild, and Jamee Schlesinger. They play at different levels but all share a passion for the fellowship and friendship that mahjong provides.
We talked with each member about why the game is special to them, about their group, and the game.
Julie “When I play with my grandmother’s set, it brings me such joy thinking of her sitting around the table playing with her family and friends. For me, it’s a way to stay connected to my past while embracing the present.”
Debbie
“The most important thing about mahjong is that it is more than a game; it’s an opportunity to get together with friends and bond over the love of the game.”
Lori
“I didn’t learn to play until 2004 when I moved to Charleston. I went with a friend to the IOP Recreation Center and took lessons. We then taught all of our girlfriends how to play. I have since taught multiple groups of friends throughout the last 20 years. I look forward to being with my squad weekly.”
Jamee
“Mahjong has always been a way to find community and for many of us, it has been a part of our family’s history.”
White Elephant Gift Exchange + Ugly Sweater Contest | Friday, Jan. 5 | 6-9 p.m. | Snafu Brewing Company, 3280 Industry Dr., North Charleston | Free | Wrap up that item you’ve been meaning to return and take it to Snafu for the gift exchange and, don’t forget to wear your best ugly sweater for a chance to win prizes.
Kokedama Workshop | Friday, Jan. 5 | 6:30-7:30 p.m. | PlantHouse - Charleston, 832 Coleman Blvd., Mount Pleasant | $25 | Learn how to make a Kokedama for a fun way to display indoor plants.
Saturday, Jan. 6
Goat Yoga | Saturday, Jan. 6 | 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. | Flowertown Charm, 225 Stallsville Rd., Summerville | $25 | Find your flow and a new four-legged friend.
South Carolina Stingrays vs. Atlanta Gladiators | Saturday, Jan. 6 | 6:05 p.m. | North Charleston Coliseum, 5001 Coliseum Dr., North Charleston | $19-$40 | Cheer on the Stingrays as they take on the Gladiators.
Sunday, Jan. 7
Motown Throwdown | Sunday, Jan. 7 | 1:30-4:30 p.m. | Pour House, 1977 Maybank Hwy., Charleston | $5 | Get ready to groove to the beat of Motown — the cover charge will start at 1 p.m.
The City of Charleston will temporarily block off the corner of Broad and Meeting streets for the Mayoral and City Council Inauguration ceremony. The event is Monday, Jan. 8, at 12 p.m. in front of City Hall, followed by a reception at Washington Square Park. Both events are open to the public, and seating is first-come, first-served.
Opening
Get Carried Away will soon welcome customers at its new Mount Pleasant location at the former Wild Wings space in Moultrie Plaza Shopping Center at 644 Coleman Blvd. On Thursday, Jan. 11, there will be a soft opening. Check out what’s on the menu. (The Post and Courier)
Jan 15
The International African American Museum (IAAM) is hosting a celebration for MLK Day. The event will feature local vendors, food trucks, music, games, and activities for youth. Registration is required and includes access to the IAAM during pre-selected time slots. Parking details can be found online. (Holy City Sinner)
Try This
You have two opportunities to participate in the 19th Annual Wild Dunes Author Event + Weekend with Mary Alice Monroe. The Kickoff Party is at Islander 71 on Friday, Jan. 12, from 4 to 6 p.m. and the Morning Mimosas Book Launch with Stacy Willingham is on Saturday, Jan. 13 at 10 a.m. (MYLO Lowcountry)
Ranked
SC has got it going on… Those who live in the beautiful Palmetto State aren’t the only ones who think so. United Van Lines released its 47th Annual Movers Study, and SC is in the top three when it comes to inbound states in 2023 making up 63% of the moves. (WCSC)
Award
The South Carolina Stingrays announced defenseman Connor Moore was named to the 2024 Warrior/ECHL All-Star Classic roster. The roster was determined by coaches, team captains, media relations directors, broadcasters, and media members. (Holy City Sinner)
Sports
The Credit One Charleston Open needs 350 volunteers and 100 ball crew members. The tournament runs from Saturday, March 30-Sunday, April 7, on Daniel Island. Volunteers must work a minimum of six shifts and will receive tickets to the tournament, meal allowances, and apparel. Training and orientation are required.
Finance
One of our top New Year’s resolutions? Getting our finances in order. Money Pickle matches you with a trusted advisor tailored to your needs through a complimentary video call to help you navigate your money. Book your free session.*
Travel
Got 2024 travel plans? Sign up for a free Going account and get notified when flights are up to 90% off. Hello, trip of your dreams.*
Active
Run, bike, and run some more
Off-Road Duathlon race returns to Laurel Hill County Park
Participants tackle a total of 11 miles of running and biking in this race. | Photo by Charleston County Park + Recreation Commission
Tighten those laces and grease those bearings. It’s time to get ready for the Off-Road Duathlon.
Registration for the run-bike-run event is $55 per person and is open through Wednesday, Jan. 10. On-site registration will not be available.
The three-part race takes place on the trails of Laurel Hill County Park in Mount Pleasant on Saturday, Jan. 13, at 8:30 a.m. It features a two-mile run followed by a seven-mile bike ride and finishes with another two-mile run. Pro tip: The bike leg of the event is best suited for knobby, wide-tired bikes.
The race is open to ages 14 and up, and an adult chaperone must accompany individuals who are 14 and 15 years old. Helmets are required, and personal water bottles are recommended. Earbuds, pets, and strollers will not be allowed on the course.
The Buy
The Buy 1.05.23 (Affiliate + Six & Main)
The product you’re most curious to try from Six & Main’s mocktail guide — featuring mixers, sparkling teas, and botanical syrups.
Shoutout
Happy birthday, CHStoday member Daniel Theriault. We hope your special day (January 9) is filled with your favorite things in Charleston! — CHStoday team
I don’t know about you, but I love a little friendly competition. After working on today’s mahjong story, I cannot wait to give it a try. If you play, tell me why you love the game + who you play with.
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