Mahjong, bridge and canasta lessons at home in Millburn, NJ

Brushing up on bridge

Many bridge players in this area learned decades ago and have not kept up with bidding conventions. A pro can bring a pair or a foursome up to date, play hands together and explain why a bid works. Others come to bridge fresh and want the basics from the ground up.

Either way, sessions are a mix of teaching and playing. You learn by playing real hands.

Bridge pros can also help new partners learn to work together. Partnership bridge depends on understanding each other's bids, and a few sessions with a pro can save a lot of frustration at the table. Many couples take it up together in retirement and enjoy it for years.

Chess every week

Chess on Home Happenings is mostly about having a real opponent. A pro arrives, sets up the board and plays a proper game. Some will go back over the game afterward to show a better move, and some teach openings or endgames if you want.

For a retired engineer or lawyer who loves a challenge, a weekly chess game is something to look forward to.

Chess games can be as long or short as you like. Some people prefer a slow, thoughtful game over two hours. Others like a few quicker games with a bit of chat between. Tell the pro what you prefer and they will match it.

Mahjong and canasta tables

Mahjong and canasta need four players, so you set up the table with friends, neighbors or family. The pro supplies the set and teaches the rules. These two require booking at least four visits so the group has time to really learn.

The Millburn Free Public Library is a good place to borrow books on card games and strategy, and some groups like to grab lunch on Millburn Avenue after a session.

Price and booking

Each pro sets their own hourly rate, from $50 to $150. Sessions are 1, 1.5 or 2 hours, and many groups pick 2. Home Happenings adds a $2.50 booking fee and a 10% service fee at checkout. The rate is for the session, so players can share it.

Pick a four-week run at the same time, or keep a weekly slot until you cancel. The pro writes a note after each session about what was taught.

Cancel free up to 3 days before a session. Between 3 days and 12 hours ahead, half is charged. Under 12 hours, it is the full price. For mahjong and canasta, the minimum four-visit booking still applies, so plan the series around everyone's calendar.