BARRY’S BAY – The President and CEO of the Ottawa Hospital, Jack Kitts, attributes his success to his small town roots in Barry’s Bay. Kitts, who was recently awarded the Order of Canada, says he has many people to thank for this recognition. The Order of Canada is a prestigious honour system that recognizes outstanding achievement and dedication to the community, as well as service to the nation. Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II established the award in 1967. “I really think growing up in Barry’s Bay, a small town where everyone knows everyone, and where everybody gets together to help anyone that needs it…has had a lot to do with my success in trying to bring the values and culture of that, to a hospital,” Kitts said. There is nothing more powerful than watching a community, a whole village pulls together when one family, or one person is in need. It just happens.” He speaks from personal experience. “I had just turned 16 when my dad passed away and I still remember how the whole community came together around us to make sure we had everything we needed. It was amazing. My mom was young, with nine kids. It was a very sudden death. I have always admired when somebody needs something, a small community really comes together.” To read the full story, pick up a copy of the July 11 paper.