Thunder on the Hooch performers offer a fresh take on patriotism

Who says you need decades of wisdom to talk about patriotism?

When Phenix City Amphitheater hosts Thunder on the Hooch on Sunday, the performance lineup will focus on young people performing faith-based and patriotic songs.

They’re not just showing up for stage time or fireworks.

Instead, many of the young participants have firsthand experiences that will make them especially aware of our nation’s history on July 4.

Here are some of their stories:

Krysta Nick

A recent Christmas Eve sticks out in Krysta Nick’s mind — not because of the anticipation of receiving a cool new gadget or outfit.

The 13-year-old singer from Peachtree City remembers performing for hundreds of soon-to-be deployed soldiers at Atlanta’s airport.

The memory makes it easy for her to attach a mental picture to terms like “service” and “sacrifice.”

When she appears in Phenix City with her band, Quarters Road, the song list will include “War and Sand.” The patriotic tune, which she penned with her father, tells the story of a girl calling her dad while he serves overseas.

“It’s like a tear-jerker,” Nick said, adding that she’s paid attention to the feelings of many friends whose families have gone through deployments.

She has two grandfathers who are veterans, one of whom is still alive and has heard her perform “War and Sand.”

“He just loves that song, too,” she said. “At least I hope he does.”

Will Clark

Don’t be surprised if Will Clark corrects your flag ceremony etiquette.

“Stand straight up with your hands by your side,” he said, describing proper behavior.

The 14-year-old Life Scout from Fortson, Ga., will perform the flag ceremony at Thunder on the Hooch with members of Boy Scout Troop 555.

Pierce Chapel United Methodist Church in Columbus is the charter organization for Boy Scout Troop 555.

Clark, the troop’s senior patrol leader, said involvement in flag ceremonies has increased his appreciation for the American flag.

“I have a greater respect for our country,” he added. His troop has performed the flag ceremony at Fort Benning while camping.

Bystanders often ask why the local Boy Scouts dedicate their time for the ceremonies.

Their answer? “We love our country, and we love to help out,” Clark said.

Lisa Anders

The songwriting process doesn’t always require artists to consult their history books.

But that’s what happened when 18-year-old Lisa Anders wrote “Future of America.” Anders, who hails from Columbus and attends Berry College, read things like the Declaration of Independence and Pledge of Allegiance to prepare for the patriotic song she’ll perform in Phenix City.

The final product is a song that refutes a common refrain among some young adults: “That’s for the older people to take care of.”

Anders said her tune reminds young people of the role they have in our country’s legacy. What did she learn from studying the Founding Fathers?

“I believe that they did have it right,” she said.

Sonya Sorich, reporter, can be reached at ssorich@ledger-enquirer.com or 706-571-8516.

This story was originally published July 1, 2010 at 12:00 AM with the headline "Thunder on the Hooch performers offer a fresh take on patriotism."