The Business of the Year award isn't given out with any regularity by the Harmony-Zelienople Business Association. But this year the group felt strongly that it needed to be awarded, said association President Mary Anne Kristophel.

That's because of Randy Herbe, 44, of Marion, owner of Herbe's Z Town Cafe and Catering in Zelienople.

The business has been open since February 2007, Ms. Kristophel said, but Mr. Herbe -- a resident of Beaver County -- has already established himself as a vital part of the Butler County community.

His contributions include providing a free meeting place for many community groups, organizing a monthly $1 spaghetti dinner to feed needy people, sponsoring Little League baseball and making soup for the Feed My Sheep Ministry, which helps homeless people.

When he won $1,000 worth of kitchen appliances in the chili cook-off at this year's fall festival, he donated the prize to his church.

"His food is as great as he is. And I don't think that you could ask him for anything that he wouldn't do -- and do with class," Ms. Kristophel said. "It is so rare for any business -- let alone a new business -- to make such a presence in the community. He is truly an asset and blessing to the community."

The association voted unanimously last month to present the Business of the Year award to the Z Town Cafe and Mr. Herbe.

"We all know just how difficult the first year of business can be," Ms. Kristophel said. "As a matter of fact, many never even make it through that first year, and if they do, it is with a struggle. Often, every ounce of strength, money and thought that one can muster goes into just keeping a new business afloat. Little, if any, energy or proceeds are left to reach out to share with others."

Mr. Herbe said he's thrilled to have the chance to help and is just enjoying living his dream of owning a restaurant.

He began years ago as a dishwasher, eventually went to culinary school and was an executive chef at a number of restaurants.

When he saw the open storefront on Main Street, he knew it was his chance.

"There are long hours involved, but my reward is the satisfaction I get from being able to do these other things," he said.

Mr. Herbe said he's always loved to cook and now has fun with his menu at the cafe by including sandwiches such as the Politician, which is full of bologna.

He said he hopes one day to be able to open other restaurants but for now is content with what he's doing at the cafe and in the community.

"I went into this not only to make money but to help people out," he said. "It's important to give back and to be a part of the community."