About the "Boston Cru"
What's this group all about?
We're an informal group of people in Massachusetts (and nearby) who love crossword puzzles. We meet up for crossword-focused events and socializing, and we sometimes discuss crossword topics by email.
What's a Cruciverbalist and who are the "Cru"?
In short, an avid crossword fan; it can also mean a person who makes (constructs) crossword puzzles. "Cru" is short for Cruciverbalists and is also the informal name of the discussion forum at the New York Times website, where many of us met for the first time.
Who's in the group?
We're a diverse, friendly bunch of avid solvers and crossword constructors. Many of us attend the annual American Crossword Puzzle Tournament, but puzzlers of all abilities are warmly welcomed at our events.
When and where do you meet?
We set up meetings every month or two, in or around Boston. We try to make events accessible by both car and public transportation. Events range from more formal activites like a public lecture to informal get-togethers at a coffee shop. We may also organize a tournament later in 2008.
See our events page for information on our next meeting.
How many of you are there?
As of April 2008, our e-mail list has over 50 people. It's an informal group, so we don't have membership dues, officers, or any of that.
How do I get involved?
Easy - just sign up for the email list at Google Groups to be notified of upcoming activities. You'll need to create a free Google account if you don't already have one. Once you've signed up, please post a message introducing yourself so we can say hello!
Who is responsible for this mayhem?
The chief instigator is Eric Helmuth, a Boston-area crossword puzzle fan who saw the movie Wordplay in 2006 and thought that crossword people looked like they were a lot of fun to hang out with. He was right.