The Bagel Bards began nearly two decades ago by Doug Holder and Harris Gardner and has thrived despite the original meeting places closing, Through the diligent efforts of Doug Holder a new home was found at Panera in Porter Square. Over the years some poets have come and gone, yet the Bards survive. Why? There is great camaraderie among the members and the Bards support and encourage one another in their creative efforts, their published works and their commitment to literature. This is the 16th Anthology produced over the years by the Bards which presents some of the talent in the group and just a small sample of the writing produced by each of the contributors. It is especially true of the current issue. Over the years many writers have contributed their works. Many have received awards and been widely published. Doug Holder and Denise Provost have become co-presidents of the New England Poetry Club helping to revitalize the organization built on the strong foundation by Mary Buchinger Bodwell, Hilary Sallick and Linda Conte. It is inclusive and broader in membership. The Bagel Bards are a welcoming group and after attending one meeting become lifetime free members. The group thrives and grows and once a member always a member. Read their works herein. And if you are not a member, consider becoming one.