On March 9, 2014 the South Jersey Culture and History Center—along with Stockton’s ARHU and General Studies programs, and Kramer Hall, Stockton’s instructional site in Hammonton—traveled to the Kerri Brooke Catering Center to attend the 9th Annual Lines on the Pines. The event, which the SJCHC helped sponsor, brought an eclectic mix of South Jersey artists, authors, and artisans together to collectively celebrate that fascinating landscape we all know and love: the Pine Barrens.
Spirits at the SJCHC table were high as representatives mingled with the locals and contributors throughout the day. Many were particularly fond of our bibliography of South Jersey Poetry, Sandy Shorts newsletter, and exhibition materials. After several hours of disseminating (and acquiring) information, purchasing souvenirs, and watching all but one free pen leave our table, we were ready for dinner and the second portion of the day’s festivities.
South Jersey Historian Paul Schopp kicked things off with a poem, which segued into a mini celebration of Budd Wilson’s 80th birthday. “Bogman” Bill Smith then took us on an intriguing botanical journey as he described his “Adventures in Bog Construction.” After, our ears were filled with the soothing country sounds of Devin Waddell and Whiskey Tango Foxtrot, and the groovy jams of Bryant Still Hick’s new age jazz fusion to round out the evening. But before dinner was over and all of the final raffle prizes were called out, our two musical acts for the evening combined talents and performed a song that blended rap and country, or what they referred to as “raptry.” All in all, it was an incredibly fun and enlightening evening.
The SJCHC would like to thank everyone who attended, participated, and helped organize the 9th Annual Lines on the Pines. We would also like to thank Linda and Jim Stanton in particular for coordinating such a wonderful event. We had a great time this year and look forward to next year, which marks the 10th Anniversary of Line on the Pines. Stay tuned, folks, because it’s going to be an event to remember!
