Part of my identity, is the love I have for my husband and my 2 sons. However, the true Beth Norton is more than what would meet this blog reader's eyes. I am a granddaughter, daughter, and a sister to 3 younger siblings. I am going to take a step back from my normal job of embarrassing (true sister harassment that is committed with love,) to brag about an accomplishment far from my own. Please join me, as I publicly congratulate a great young women, my sister, on a huge accomplishment.

At the finishing of the school year this past April, Olivia Norton argued her sister, Christine Norton (the field conductor of the Middle Township Marching Band) to audition for the All American High School Band's conducting spot. Being a young woman of humility, Christine was unsure of her success at the job. When Olivia was persistent and relentless of her faith in Christine's musical talent and ability, Christine finally agreed. Christine, with her sister behind the camera, worked to create a superb audition tape that included a two minute posture clip, a conducting section, and a video essay with a personality interview. The video piece brought the title and honor of being the 2009 All American Field Conductor to Christine Norton, beating out many other applicants.

Christine had earned the title and received numerous recommendations from her various teachers at Middle Township High School. Christine competed for the spot, on the US Army All American Band, with over 400 applicants. Olivia Norton said, "It came to no surprise!" She added, "The moment I heard that they were calling for open auditions, I knew the Army National Band would be lucky to have her!" Christine Norton hopes that this is just the beginning of the musical stepping stones for her future as she prepares her college plans. The senior, this year, hopes to attend Liberty University or a like school studying musical composition, musical education, or music therapy.

In August of 2009, Christine Norton was recognized in front of over 20,000 people. The symbolic gesture of last year's conductor passed the All American Marching Band shako (hat) to Norton at the Drum and Bugle Core Championship. For two weeks, in January, Christine will be flying to Texas, as 80 musicians perform under the conduction of Christine Norton for the Army sponsored event. The band performance is likely to be aired on national television. These fine musicians will be playing during intermission at the High School's All-Star football game this year.

Now a brief sister note, to both of my sisters whom I am proud of for being one to encourage and one to audition:

I hope you always can dream like you have today. Dream big and dream for each other. When one feels unsure, reassure her. When one feels unlucky, be sure to say that they would be lucky to have you. Dream boldly. Dream big! Know that with each dream, your family in Cape May County is at stage right (in your corner) and cheering you on! Whatever you do, dream today until the dawn. I love you Bia and Tine!