Noshing With Gail Marie – July 27, 2023

Writer, Custom Crossword and Word Search Puzzles  This week, Ira spoke with Gail Marie, a writer of custom crossword and word search puzzles for individuals, couples, groups, businesses and corporations. In this across-and-down episode of “Ira’s Everything Bagel,” Gail talks about how she started as a cruciverbalist (a designer or aficionado of crossword puzzles); why she went from working for a cable company to creating puzzles on a full-time basis; how she is able to create custom crosswords and word search puzzles; why she moved to Las Vegas to expand her business; what was one of the most complicated puzzles she created; and why she still pursues her other passion as a stand-up comedian.  Gail Marie’s website, http://www.customcrosswords.com, was put together in 1991, before dot-coms were taken seriously, and she has been writing customized crossword and word search puzzles ever since — still using graph paper and pencil!  One of her technical crosswords include one written for the State of California to train firemen on hazardous materials, A few of Gail’s favorite crosswords are: “A Diamond is a Fan’s Best Friend (baseball terms),” “A Frog’s Life,” and “What Are You Afraid Of? (different phobias).” Today, Gail enjoys combining fun and games with humor in her presentations, and likes to share what it was like growing up as a “word nerd.” http://www.customcrosswords.com (Created by Gail Marie)