The Tool Desk
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Hints for the original July 7 Strands puzzle
The theme clue was “Hello Muddah, Hello Fadduh.” If that does not give it away, consider this additional clue: Where youngsters might spend their days at this time of year.
The answers are about places and objects associated with that setting. For a further nudge, the spangram names the setting itself.
What was the SUMMER CAMP spangram?
The original puzzle’s spangram was SUMMER CAMP. A Strands spangram describes the theme and touches at least two edges of the board.
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Spoilers: The six theme words, in addition to the spangram, were:
- CANTEEN
- LODGE
- FLAGPOLE
- BUNK
- FIELDHOUSE
- LAKE
Together, the canteen, lodge, flagpole, bunk, fieldhouse and lake point to a summer-camp setting.
Was the puzzle replaced?
Yes. The Times replaced the original puzzle later on July 7 with a new one. Its note, reproduced by TechRadar, said the original theme and board may have felt “insensitive and poorly timed” in light of events in Texas. The note said the themes and boards were created and scheduled weeks in advance, and that the puzzle had been replaced.
Forbes reported that the change was likely prompted by deadly flooding at a Texas summer camp. The Times’ note acknowledged the timing concern, but did not expressly state that the flooding caused the replacement.
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Original puzzle versus replacement
| Edition | Theme clue | Spangram | Answer set |
|---|---|---|---|
| Original, July 7 | Hello Muddah, Hello Fadduh | SUMMER CAMP | CANTEEN, LODGE, FLAGPOLE, BUNK, FIELDHOUSE, LAKE |
| Replacement, July 7 | Prescriptions plus | PHARMACY AISLE | GROCERY, VITAMINS, MEDICINE, BEAUTY, HEALTH |
The replacement answer set is included only to help identify the edition; it is not part of the original puzzle’s solution.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.How Strands hints work
Strands uses a six-by-eight grid. Trace connected letters to form theme words; paths may run vertically, horizontally or diagonally and can change direction. Finding three valid non-theme words unlocks a hint that reveals letters in a theme answer. These rules are described in Parade’s explanation of Strands.
Quick Recap
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