The Immigrant Entrepreneur Award was presented at last week's Smiths Falls & District Chamber of Commerce annual dinner to someone who is well known for his contributions to the local business community and the community overall - Maganth (Ram) Mogandas.

Mogandas, who is the chef and co-owner of Chuckles Jack restaurant, was the first recipient of the award, which was established by the Smiths Falls Local Immigration Partnership in collaboration with the chamber of commerce and Valley Heartland Community Futures Development Corporation.

"In seeking to support new business ventures, Valley Heartland is delighted to sponsor the Immigrant Entrepreneur Award to recognize exceptional business acumen as illustrated by an immigrant entrepreneur," says Susan Fournier, executive director of Valley Heartland. "We feel it is important to recognize exceptional talent and business leadership and are honoured to sponsor the Immigrant Entrepreneur Award"...read more.