HOUGHTON, N.Y. —Brad Wilber, interim library director at Houghton College and a crossword aficionado, was recently part of the 30^th anniversary of the American Crossword Puzzle Tournament, the nation’s oldest and largest annual crossword competition directed by The New York Times Crossword Puzzle Editor Will Shortz.

Acting as a referee and judge for the competition, Wilber helped register contestants, proctor the puzzles, record times, grade papers and verify perfect solutions. “Some things about the competition were overwhelming, and I felt like I was just getting my bearings when it was time to leave, but Will Shortz has asked me back for next year and I really look forward to it,” said Wilber.

Wilber, who enjoys solving crossword puzzles as well as constructing them, has over 200 crossword puzzles published, two of which were selected for publication in The New York Times. "Most places I go, the fact that I write crosswords comes up as one of the most unique things about me. It was quite refreshing at the competition to have that be the least unique thing about me,” commented Wilber.

The 2007 tournament had 700 contestants, an increase of 200 from the previous year, ranging in age from 13 to 89. The increase in interest is credited to the 2006 documentary “Wordplay,” which stars Shortz with cameo appearances by Bill Clinton, Jon Stewart, and other celebrities.

Contestants solve eight original crosswords created and edited specifically for this competition. Scoring is based on accuracy and speed with prizes awarded in more than 20 categories, including a $5,000 grand prize.

“Some day, maybe, I would compete in the tournament,” said Wilber, “But I would also love to have one of my puzzles selected for it.”

This summer Wilber is offering a seminar on crossword constructing and puzzle solving techniques during Alumni College at Houghton College. More information on this seminar can be found at http://www.houghton.edu/alumni/events/alumni_college.htm.