Opinion

Op-Ed: The Woman Behind the Mahjong Movement

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If you’ve taken Mahjong lessons from Aggie Aspinwall chances are you’re saying ‘Mahj’ more than your fair share these days. As director of Lapham Center, Aggie has taught hundreds of New Canaan residents the difference between a red dragon and soap, how to build a hand out of craks, and the fine art of knowing when to switch hands midgame. She even led a standing-room-only session at the New Canaan Library on strategy and keeps Lapham open late on Wednesday nights so players of all levels—rookies and regulars alike—can gather for open play. During her lessons, she patiently reminds her students that “no, you can’t use a joker with a pair,” and that a “C” on your Mahjong card means concealed, so your hand stays secret until you’ve really won. Of course, Mahjong teacher is just one of the many hats Aggie wears.

Opinion

Op-Ed: Christmas in October

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Every Wednesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. feels like Christmas morning at the New Canaan Swap Shop. Whenever you’re feeling down in the dumps—or as we say in New Canaan,  the Transfer Station—stop by. You’ll be greeted by a cheerful crew of volunteers who act like personal shoppers, eager to help you find what you’re looking for—or, more often, something you didn’t even know you needed. The place is pure joy. Donations roll in — a fire truck bed, a set of Spode Christmas plates, even a wobbly end table that just needs love (or at least a coaster).