Puzzle Notes

Dear solvers,

It's with mixed emotions that I (Stella) announce that this will be my last puzzle on the AVCX Cryptic editing team. I'm profoundly grateful to AVCX for taking a chance on me when I was metaphorically in diapers as a cryptic constructor, and I've learned so much over the last four years about how these wonderful puzzles work. I am much happier as a constructor than as an editor, though, and so it's time to leave this operation in the very capable hands of Nate, Steve, and Francis.

But enough about editing: Let's talk about the constructor! It's longtime AVCX friend and cryptic expert Brendan Emmett Quigley, who's brought you what we think is an easy to moderate challenge as cryptics go. When you're done solving, don't forget to check out Align, a game co-created by BEQ. And because his creativity isn't limited to puzzles, you can also listen to the latest recording from Boston Typewriter Orchestra, a percussion collective of which BEQ is a member. In fact, you can hear him singing on the 'Ghost Rider' track!

As always, we recommend a cozy paper solve when you're doing a cryptic, but for those who can't resist solving online, you can do so here.

With Chrismukwanzukkah nearly upon us, don't forget that an AVCX subscription makes a great gift and helps keep quality indie puzzles alive.

Thanks so much for your continued support!
Stella and the AVCX Cryptic team