The Surge
An NPR station profiles a mahjong nonprofit in Tampa
WUSF reports that Dragons on the Green has taught American mah jongg to more than a thousand beginners and gives its proceeds to charity.
WUSF, the NPR member station in Tampa, published a piece titled "Mahjong is making its mark in Tampa" on June 1, 2026. It profiles Dragons on the Green Mah Jongg, an American-style teaching group co-founded by Judy Serrapica and Bonnie Wise that holds beginner lessons at the Tampa Jewish Community Center.
According to the report, the two have welcomed more than a thousand students "from all walks of life." The organization, which describes itself as a nonprofit incorporated in 2016, says it donates proceeds from its lessons and tournaments to charities focused on women and their families.
Serrapica told WUSF the growth has accelerated lately. "We've noticed probably in the last two to three years, it's taken off even more so," she said. The station tied the interest to a hunger for "a more social aspect of life that isn't just going out to the club or the bar."
Prim's view: this is the same pattern showing up city by city, a beginner room built by one or two people who teach. It is worth remembering that this American version grew out of a much older game with deep Chinese roots. OOTT is not affiliated with Dragons on the Green, does not sell mah jongg sets, and does not run lessons or venues. We just like seeing new tables open.