This time I am writing about the wonderful Waunda Noorgard. Why? Because it's her birthday! On her 60th, yep, six zero, I want to honor this vital community member.

I have known Waunda for years. I work across the hall from her. I manage Many Moons Trading Company (great thrift) and she holds down the fort at The Sports Junction. Both businesses are located in the back of the walk through hallway on California Ave, next to Capers and behind A Plus Hearing Aid.

I constantly bother Waunda (not that you'd know it, she's very accommodating). If I need a piece of tape, I ask Waunda. Light bulb? Maybe Waunda has one. Idea for a cake? Waunda. Need a watch engraved? Waunda. Hem pants, make a veil, borrow a piece of string, tie a bow? All Waunda.

What would I do without her?

And I am not the only one that feels that way.

"The Epitome of Community," is how Deanise Noorgard describes her mother. Waunda Noorgard is the definition of community. She was raised here in West Seattle since the age of 10, raised her two children here, and is a vibrant, vital part of our area.

Waunda is a busy woman. How can she not be? She does everything! For the last 21 years she has been a volunteer with the Seattle Lutheran basketball team: she has taken tickets, helped at countless games, assisted with the tournaments, and been an adoring fan. If she isn't doing that, she can be found at work, passing out tape to me, or sewing letters on letterman jackets for ever rotating students and parents that ferret her out, or she could be be-dazzling a baseball hat with a West Seattleites initials, or engraving love notes on a piece of Menashe's lovely jewelry. She's even been known to West Seattle girls plan their weddings (how does that have to do with sports at the Sports Junction? It doesn't. It's all Waunda!) If she's a lucky bride, Waunda may even make the wedding cake! Then, of course, she can help you order a trophy for your winning team, or help you alter your clothes. Like I said, she does everything! She's even the last minute Halloween costume guru.

Waunda has worked at Sports Junction 1989. Rick, the owner of Sports Junction, lit up when I asked him a few questions about his longest standing (and only) employee. "Well," he smiled, "she really does a lot for our community." And he is right.

Why do I want to write about Waunda? Because she is an unsung hero of West Seattle, and it is time we adorn her with a crown and let her know she's the queen.

I want her to know that we recognize that she is the glue behind the scenes, the fairy godmother to many, the fan that yells the loudest at the West Seattle Lutheran Games, and the quintessential West Seattle Martha Stewart. She's the ultimate Cool Aid Mom. (But don't be late or waste her time, Cool Aid Moms must have respect too!)

In order to honor this queen in our midst, Deanise (her daughter) has organized a birthday party at the Rocksport Bar and Grill on the 22nd of February. It's a Boa and Bling party, not formal, but wear something shiny (bling) or a boa.

(And, if you need a tip as to what to give Waunda on her special day, bring her a pair of dice. She collects them!)

Emily Williamson may be reached via wseditor@robinsonnews.com