The best time to announce that you've constructed another cryptic crossword was when it was published, last year. The second-best time is now. Many thanks to @francisheaney.bsky.social for another fine round of editing, and to the good people of @avcx.bsky.social for having me again.

(Don’t mind me, just talking). But ya know, in these times. Does anyone know of a marxist recipe platform we could partner with?

Well, thank you.

Yup, that must be it. Among the purchases were a bunch of single orders of a 2021 Pao Roy puzzle co-edited by @burrata.bsky.social and Wyna Liu. Appreciate that.

Truly truly, as a person who plays games online, you are invariably propping up something. Media companies financially depend on games in a huge way right now. So make choices about what you support consciously and with the awareness that you have power in doing so.

And if the media company that runs the puzzle is doing transphobic coward shit because they think that’s just the vibe right now, do not let them off the hook.

If your favorite crossword runs the answer ELON with the clue “Inventor Musk,” tell them you don’t want to see that trash, any more than you would “Politico Heinrich” for HIMMLER. Shove that Overton window hard.

Leisure is political under capitalism. Support puzzles and games that resist fascism, in some meaningful way. There are lots of avenues and words matter.

Puzzle makers make choices about humor, about common knowledge, etc. what choices are the games you play making?

And how and where does the money flow? Ask these questions about the puzzles and games you play.

Happily, there are many great puzzle outlets with ethical sensibilities.

Let’s talk about a puzzle-related donation drive of some kind

A lot of good ways to show support here: www.standwithminnesota.com

Hmm the Times puzzle though?

If you hear back from us with revision requests, please know that it’s common, and also that most of the time both constructors and editors end up happy with the improvements!