Hi! I’m Janell, and building community is my passion. Serving in the Marines taught me that volunteering is a powerful way to make a difference. 

After four years on the Puzzle Parley Steering Committee, where I updated the registration and online presence, I channeled that skill set into structuring our nonprofit. 

Now, I handle the operational groundwork so we can engage our community and enjoy great puzzle events together!

At Chestnut And Hemlock, I sell my hand-carved spoons, wooden toys, turned bowls, and custom jigsaw puzzles. I’ve been hand-cutting puzzles for five years, specializing in tiny, complex pieces that redefine what a flat puzzle can be. 

My passion extends to researching historical US Pastime Puzzles (1908–1958), practicing the meticulous skill of puzzle repair, and compiling the USA Puzzle Makers Index with the help of our incredible online puzzle community.

Based in Colorado, I’m a retired engineer with a passion for both casual and speed puzzling. 

I actively foster local community by running our regional FB puzzle swap group, hosting in-person swaps, and building a Little Free Puzzle Library. I’m also the creator of the FB game PuzzleTrain. 

Catch up with me on Instagram  @puzzlepiecesperdiem!

I’m Mark, and I bring a passion for problem-solving and numbers to the Puzzle Jam board! Through M Squared Puzzles, I combine fresh ideas with traditional craftsmanship to hand-cut wooden puzzles. 

My grandchildren keep me grounded in curiosity and fun, while my financial background helps guide Puzzle Jam’s responsible growth.

I look forward to keeping our organization financially healthy while building a vibrant, welcoming space for puzzle lovers everywhere.