Wednesday, July 22, 2026 — Ooh, the Carnival's In Town! 🎉🤡

If you find the aroma of fresh popcorn wafting from the grid, that means you've really gotten into the spirit of this absolutely endearing crossword by Rebecca Goldstein*. It had everything that we want to see in a Wednesday crossword: a highly ingenious theme, clues that make you sweat, and a terrific payoff. This undoubtedly deserves 5 squares on the JAMCR scale, for reasons described herein.On a logistical note, we are going to be taking the next few days off for some R&R. If you haven't already subscribed to this podcast, this would be a great time to do so, so that when we come back — next Thursday — you can pick up where you left off.Show note imagery: Nope, those definitely aren't Betty Davis eyes ... more like Devon Rex eyes.----------------------------------------------------* or, there is a remote chance that your computer is on fire, in which case you should seek IT help immediately 😀We love feedback! Send us a text...Contact Info:We love listener mail! Drop us a line, [email protected], we're on FaceBook, so feel free to drop by there and strike up a conversation!