The D.R.E.A.M.

Percussion and possibility

By SANDY LONG

BETHEL, NY — Following a heartfelt apology from Widespread Panic drummer Domingo “Sunny” Ortiz for running late, no words were necessary as the universal language of drumming filled the Bethel Woods Museum Events Gallery with positive vibes during its latest Experience the Arts Encore program.

The program was created to provide community access to artistic, educational and entertainment opportunities at the Bethel Woods Center for the Arts. The percussion workshop transpired only hours before Widespread Panic took the stage, and made it possible for high school-aged children who are part of the Monticello D.R.E.A.M. Tank project to interact directly with Ortiz.

The moniker stands for Dynamic Realization through Enrichment, Actualization and Motivation and D.R.E.A.M. Tank is the brainchild of Judge Josephine Finn. Two years ago, Finn conceived the project as a means of seeking alternative solutions for at-risk youth outside the criminal justice system. “I saw too many kids coming and going through my courtroom,” said Finn. “It was starting to get to me.”

Experiences with the program help the youth develop a more positive self image and foster stronger connections with the community through music, arts, dance, drumming and travel opportunities, in conjunction with mandatory etiquette and self-actualization workshops.

Many of the students participate in a “stomp style” tub band organized by Project D.R.E.A.M. Tank, which will perform on September 27 at the Bethel Woods Mountain Music Festival. They will also sell handmade jewelry that they have created over the summer.

In addition, the 13-through-24-year-olds have been busy preparing meals for the Federation for the Homeless in Monticello, and will receive a $2,000 prize for their second-place finish in Sullivan Renaissance’s Category A Awards for box art in the Town of Thompson.

Professional drummer and Monticello businessman Eric Young assists with D.R.E.A.M. Tank and will soon take members of the group on a deep-sea fishing trip. “Some of these kids have never been out of Monticello,” he said. “Some have never been in a rowboat. It expands their world.”

Young also leads a series of nature workshops aimed at involving the kids with the natural world. Camping, hunting for fossils, learning about plants, insects and birds are all part of an effort to get kids off the streets and away from their computers.

“We try to show them a different side of life,” said Finn. “It’s all about expanding the possibilities. You can’t understand what night is unless you’ve seen day.”

Young praised Finn, calling her both a personal mentor of his and a champion for the kids. “It changes their lives,” he said while preparing to join the drummers in the gallery. “Maybe we’ll see them on the big stage here one day.”