The Dispatch

Prim reads everything from the world of American Mahjong, so you don't have to.

Volume 2026 August 1

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The Dispatch for August 1, 2026Today’s Dispatch →

For Beginners

A Newton beginner course opens six Wednesday evenings this fall

A community center in Newton, Massachusetts lists a beginner American Mah Jongg course running 16 September to 21 October, with registration open now.

The center's calendar lists a beginner mah jongg course meeting Wednesdays from 16 September through 21 October 2026, 5:45 to 7:45 PM, at 333 Nahanton Street in Newton, Massachusetts. Registration is open on the center's own page.

Per the listing, it is a beginner course in American Mah Jongg played to National Mah Jongg League rules, open to adults, taught across six weekly sessions, and attendance at the first class is required. The page also tells registrants to buy a card from the National Mah Jongg League in advance.

That last detail is the ordinary shape of the American on ramp: a class, a fixed weeknight, and a purchase you make before you walk in. Worth logging for anyone near Newton who has been waiting for a structured start rather than a drop in table.

OOTT is not affiliated with the center and has no part in the course. Details and pricing sit on the host's own registration page.

Read more at JCC Greater Boston →

More from the table

On the Air

A free national panel on the mahjong boom is set for 27 August

A public forum has scheduled a free, virtual conversation on the game's resurgence, and the published agenda includes what it costs to play.

August 1, 2026 · FOLCS

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Set Your Rack

A desert resort gives a weekend to American mahjong in Tucson

A three day Mahjong and Mindfulness retreat runs 9 to 11 August in Tucson, played to National Mah Jongg League rules, with booking open at the time of writing.

August 1, 2026 · Canyon Ranch

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