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Let the good tiles roll
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W e d n e s d ay, M a r c h 4, 2026
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River Ridge woman brings people together with Louisiana-themed mahjong tiles BY CELESTE TURNER Contributing writer
Once reserved for home tables in tight-knit communities, mahjong has exploded in popularity across the U.S., expanding to public game nights in the New Orleans area, sparking a vibrant cross-generational pastime. River Ridge resident Kaylee Rongey organizes and hosts mahjong game nights every Monday across the city, drawing about 50 players ages 21 to 75. “What started as a fun way to gather friends around the table has turned into something bigger,” Rongey said. “I wanted to create a space that felt welcoming, where people could learn, play and connect.” Rongey designed a Louisiana-themed Mardi Gras mahjong tile set, called “The Mambo Collection” from
PROVIDED PHOTO BY MARDIJONG/ BY STUDIO TRAN
Louisiana-themed mahjong tiles are a mainstay at the Mardijong game nights. Mardijong. “These tiles tell our story through Mardi Gras colors, local symbols, and favorites that people instantly recognize and connect with,” she said.
The collection has quickly become a favorite at Monday game nights at spots like Shimmy Shack in
ä See TILES, page 2G
Should I get pet insurance?
reimburse a set percentage of the bill after Here are some things to consider may the deductible is met. Most plans cover accidents and illnesses, such when making that decision as surgeries, diagnostic testing, hospitalization,
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FRIDAY = FRY DAY
Fried fish is plentiful around the metro area on Lenten Fridays.
ä List of area fish
fries. PAGE 8G
medications, and sometimes prescription diets. I’ve been a senior pet parent for many years Some policies also include coverage for heredinow, and we are at the stage where my dog needs specialists, such as an ophthalmologist for tary and congenital conditions, which can his glaucoma and a dermatologist for his be especially helpful for certain breeds. skin issues. Pet insurance typically requires a monthThe number one question I always get is, ly premium. Plans vary widely, and coverdo I have pet insurance. age depends on the options selected. No, no, I don’t. Some policies offer add-ons for wellness Why? Because this was not something care such as vaccinations, annual exams, Traci I thought about or even knew existed 20 flea and heartworm prevention and even Howerton dental cleanings. Others strictly cover years ago when I got my first pet. We adopted our current dog when he was emergencies and medical problems. ANIMAL RESCUE already a senior, and he came with his ailIt’s also worth noting that some veterinary clinics offer their own in-house wellments, so I figured he would be uninsurable due to his pre-existing conditions. ness plans. These aren’t insurance policies, but I’m not saying pet insurance is not needed; it rather monthly payment programs that bundle just didn’t work out timing-wise for me. routine services throughout the year at a reduced However, for other new pet owners, you may rate. want to consider the pros and cons of getting Not all policies are created equal health insurance while your pets are young. There are many companies offering pet insurHow does pet insurance work? ance, and each one structures its plans a little difPet insurance is a lot like human health insurferently. Differences may include: n Annual or lifetime payout limits ance, but with a few important differences. n Deductible amounts (annual vs. per-incident) At its core, it helps cover a portion of the cost of unexpected veterinary care for your dog or cat. ä See PET, page 2G Depending on the policy you choose, the company
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