The Entrepreneur Council of Frederick County recently held its annual awards banquet to honor entrepreneurs who have distinguished themselves as successful business and community leaders.

Businesses and owners were nominated by members of the community and winners were announced at the banquet at Linganore Wine Cellars on June 7.

Twelve entrepreneurs were nominated for awards in four categories aimed at representing the stages of business development.

Winners this year were Dr. Maria Higgins, of Unique Optique, in the start-up category; Rob and Debbie Truelove, of Signs by Tomorrow, in the small emerging category; Jean-Louis LePage, of customer imprints, in the small established category and Jim Caruso, of Flying Dog Brewery, for large established.

The council selects the winners based on ingenuity, hard work and perseverance to create a successful, sustained business venture that contributes to the economic health of the community.

The Youth Entrepreneur Award was shared by 7-year-old Julie Schillaci, who started a business called SoapPrizes, and 12-year-old Carl Zukus, creater of CZ Wallets.

Phil Bowers, president of Fountain Rock Management Company, which operates several local restaurants, including Acacia, Brewer’s Alley and Isabella’s, received the Chris E. Olson Master Entrepreneur Award.

For more information about the Entrepreneur Council, visit www.EntrepreneurCouncil.com.