It is with much sadness that I bring you this bad news. John Nikiforuk, a member of the Ottawa paddling community for decades, passed this morning (Sept 14) after losing his battle with cancer. There will be a get together paddle in his memory from Bate Island this coming Saturday, September 17. Along with your paddling gear, hopefully you can bring along a story to share. People are planning to be there for 1:00 pm.