Six volunteers, one organization and a state legislator were honored Thursday night at the first annual Friends of Education Awards.

The awards, sponsored by the Butler Coordinating Council, are meant to provide recognition to people who support education but are not educators themselves.

The awards have been given for several years. The council consists of representatives from the seven school districts in Butler County.

Nominees for the awards were accepted and a panel of judges made the final decision on awardees.

This year's Friends of Education winners are:

Described as a designer, builder, painter, driver, mover, curtain hanger and friend, Taylor has helped with the district's drama and musical productions since 1993. He made sets for use by the students in many productions. Taylor also drives bus for Butler Motor Tours, so has been the driver for most of the district's drama outings.Pat Bell presented the award to Taylor.

Described as someone who takes her work with students seriously, Brucker was presented her award by Arlene Quinlan.Brucker is a volunteer with the Red Cross' Foster Grandparents Program at Slippery Rock Elementary School. She reads to kindergarten classes, works with art classes and assists teachers when needed.

Described by her nominator as "an encouragement to my second grade emerging readers," Vislay has been a volunteer in the Mars Primary Center for four years. She helped teacher Vicki Stenner move into the building four years ago, and has continued to help her by volunteering her time in the classroom.Her award was presented by Stenner.

The branch manager at Laurel Savings Bank for more than 25 years, Pickard has been a friend to education by contributing to many student projects at the school over the years. The projects he helped fund include the band pavilion and the Knights of Columbus Free Throw Championship.His awarded was presented by Kenneth Elliott.

Zeckzer and the Rotary Club were nominated because they have helped with many projects at the Haine Middle School. Zeckzer has volunteered as track coach for the school and sponsors various activity nights for students.

P.J. Lynd accepted the award for the Cranberry Township club. The award was presented by Toni Keefer.Mary Jo Knock and Rozann Lamberto presented the award to Zeckzer.

Nominated by Broad Street Elementary School fifth grade teacher Cindy Ehrman, Himchak was honored for her years as a volunteer at the school.Himchak has worked with students with learning disabilities and has chaperoned class trips. She was described as "a valuable asset" by Ehrman.Ehrman presented the award to Himchak.

In addition to the six Friends of Education, a special award was given for the distinguished friend of education. It was given to state Rep. Guy Travaglio, D-11th.Travaglio, a 1945 Butler High School graduate, has been a state representative for 10 years.For more than 40 years, Travaglio has been a contributor to the Butler community. He has been given many awards, including the Distinguished Service Man of the Year in 1983.He was nominated for the award by Anthony Stagno, who presented him with the honor.