EDITORIAL : AN EARLY MOTHER'S DAY.

GAIL Williamson of North Hills didn't win the National Mother of the Year award because she's the best soccer mom in the country.

No, the 45-year-old woman earned the American Mothers Inc. award because in part she's a mother extraordinaire, who has dedicated her life to eight children.

Williamson credits her husband, Tommie, who has shared the joys and hardships that come with raising a large family.

Their load includes a 23-year-old community college student and a 19-year-old son afflicted with Down syndrome who she has helped to become an actor, as well as six nieces.

Four years ago, when the girls' parents died of unrelated diseases within a short time of one another, Gail and Tommie Williamson became their legal guardians.

Gail Williamson is coordinator of talent development and industry relations for Media Access and chairwoman of the Young Performers Division, both of which promote acting careers for children with disabilities. Williamson's younger son, Blair, is one of Media Access's clients. He has appeared on ``ER'' and a USA Network film as well as commercials.

Williamson's dedication to her family, career and volunteerism have made her a quality selection for mother of the year. Certainly, it's a nice Mother's Day present.