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Archive for the ‘Outdoor Adventures’ Category

Mother Nature’s Wonder: The Great Barrier Reef

In Outdoor Adventures, Professionals on January 31, 2013 at 4:44 am

The Great Barrier Reef is an incredibly valuable resource, providing habitat for all sorts of marine life and a source of recreation and tourism for scuba divers, snorkelers and reef walkers. Coral reefs constitute an entire ecosystem to themselves, serving as protection for young fish and a food source for all their denizens. It’s important to realize, though, that reefs are a finite resource; without proper management and protection, we’re likely to find out just how finite and fragile reefs really are.

Researchers have discovered that over the last 27 years, the coral cover of the Great Barrier Reef has dropped by more than half. At the present rate, the coral cover could be down by half again inside of a decade. There are a few reasons behind this startling decline; increased storms, bleaching, and a population explosion of a predatory starfish that depletes the nutrients in the coral. The trend has accelerated since 1998, with two-thirds of the present coral loss happening since then.

Tropical cyclones have been accountable for about half of the loss of coral reef structure, with the reef being hit by six major cyclones in just the last seven years. Cyclone Hamish ran for over 900 miles, leaving a wake of devastation much worse than most cyclones; it also ran parallel to the Australian coast, when most cyclones cross the reef at an angle. The crown-of-thorns starfish (cots) has also been a huge contributor to the degraded condition of the reef. First documented in 1962, the Cots population has shot to a level where they eat 90% of the reef’s coral in infested areas. Evidence suggests that the Cots outbreaks start after major floods in rivers that flow into the sea. Overfishing and collecting of coral for aquariums and other marine-biology projects have also contributed to the reef’s problems.

To help restore the health of the Great Barrier Reef, scientists point to taking on the crown-of-thorns starfish, managing fishing operations, and working globally to cut carbon dioxide emissions and global warming. It’s believed that global warming may be one of the biggest culprits, contributing to the severe storms and acidification of ocean water that have been so detrimental to the reef’s structure and ecosystem. As fragile as the coral reefs are, they can also be resilient and regenerate themselves – given the proper measures and care.

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Riding the Wind with Dan Sciscente

In Automotive, Information, Outdoor Adventures on July 17, 2012 at 2:19 pm
Dan Sciscente

Dan Sciscente

Most people are surprised to learn that Dan Sciscente, a widely respected Information Technology entrepreneur and co-founder of the leading SAP interface software firm Communi-T, is also an avid motorcyclist.  Today, we learn that there are many undiscovered roads on the eastern seaboard that can easily feed any motorcyclist’s appetite..

Presentation Solutions: Dan, thank you for speaking with us today. It’s always a pleasure chatting with you.

Dan Sciscente: No problem.

Presentation Solutions: So, can you tell us a little bit about what an American biker should know before crossing the border.

Dan Sciscente: There are a few things to remember. First, the Canadian roads are often quite rural, being big and vast, as they are beautiful. Make sure to have a cell phone, a first aid kit, road flares, and water with you­–just in case you get lost or hurt.

Presentation Solutions: That’s good pragmatic advice, but let’s talk about the fun part: riding.

Dan Sciscente: The beauty about riding on the eastern part of Canada – Quebec, New Brunswick and the maritimes is that it provides some of the most beautiful scenery in the world. The roads are long and winding, traffic lights are few and far in between, and wildlife just kind of wanders around.

Presentation Solutions: That sounds fantastic. What’s the catch?

Dan Sciscente: Well, it’s not so much a catch but there are parts of the road that may not have been kept up as much as a motorcyclist would like. Getting on some motorcycle forums and discussing with others that share the same interest will provide you with a well of information. Also, it’s advisable to lookup provincial sites in order to get the latest on detours and construction.

Presentation Solutions: What about sharing the road with vacationers?

Dan Sciscente: It’s not as populated as you’d think. If it is, they are all sitting still at one of the out of the way resorts scattered throughout the area. But just as you feel you’ve been travelling solo for a while, a motorcycling peer appears out of nowhere and gives you a traditional wave of a hand saluting you.

Presentation Solutions: Is there a best time of year to hit the roads?

Dan Sciscente: Early summer or early fall, the weather is nice and there are even fewer vehicles on the road. You can zoom around for hours and count on one hand the number of cars that pass you.

Presentation Solutions: There are a few ferries, from what we’ve heard. How much are they to cross?

Dan Sciscente: The ferries are free but it’s a good idea to keep some Canadian currency on hand for toll highways. Travelling into Prince Edward Island on the great bridge is quite an experience as you are surrounded by the ocean on both sides.

Presentation Solutions: What’s this about wildlife? What kinds of animals can you see in their natural habitat here?

Dan Sciscente: What can’t you see? The main animals to watch are moose on the road as they can be crossing and don’t really have a knack for checking for traffic. If you hit a moose at regular speed, it can cost your life as it’s like hitting a wall at 100km / hour.. You can also see mountain goats, elk, and deer.

Presentation Solutions: Coming from the US, we are used to measuring distance in miles. Canada uses Kilometers. What’s the difference?

Dan Sciscente: A kilometer is .62 of a mile. So, basically, if you see a sign that says 50 kilometers to the next fuel station, it’s 31 miles.

Presentation Solutions: We are out of time but do you have any last tips you’d like to add?

Dan Sciscente: Mostly just to remember to get your documents in order. You won’t need a visa but your bike’s registration and your driver’s license have to match. Also, the temperature can change drastically in a 24-hour period so, pack accordingly. And again, road construction advisories, forums and travel info make your trip well prepared!

About Dan Sciscente: Dan has always enjoyed the thrill of Motorcycles and riding on demanding tracks and roads. Traditionally called “iron-bots”, Dan enjoys getting together with a group of fellow motorcycle riders and travelling close to 1,000KM in a single day – leaving for close to 12 hours. These iron-bots are made for true riders and typically happen by organizing a well-chosen itinerary focusing on road challenges, scenery and duration.

Dan tends to favor both BMW Motorrad bikes as well as Ducati.

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The Perfect Vacation Source Wants You to Have Your Dream Vacation to Australia

In Outdoor Adventures on May 18, 2012 at 2:31 pm
Perfect Vacation Source

Perfect Vacation Source

The Perfect Vacation Source is a travel club specializing in resort vacations at wholesale prices. Because they are also a full-service travel agency, they are knowledgeable about areas all over the world. Today, they are discussing some of the most exciting places to visit in Australia with the staff at Presentation Solutions.

Presentation Solutions: Good Morning, thank you for joining us.

The Perfect Vacation Source: We appreciate the invitation, and you’re welcome.

Presentation Solutions: Because you are so familiar with Australia, can you tell us what the “must see” places are?

The Perfect Vacation Source: One of the most stunning places on earth is the Great Barrier Reef, and there is a small island on the reef named Port Douglas for Low Isles that’s also magnificent.

Presentation Solutions: What else would you recommend visitors see on the Great Barrier Reef?

The Perfect Vacation Source: Traveling on a clear-bottomed boat through the Great Barrier Reef is one of the most mesmerizing and exhilarating trips that a person can take. Also, we suggest to travelers that they consider renting a boat to spend the night anchored in the reef. There’s nothing like it.

Presentation Solutions: That sounds so tranquil. Well, if someone is able to pry him or herself away from the ocean, where else should they go?

The Perfect Vacation Source: We highly recommend that visitors check out the area in Swan Valley. It’s home to the oldest wine producing region in Australia.

Presentation Solutions: What else can visitors experience there?

The Perfect Vacation Source: The Swan Valley is well known for it’s amazing vineyards, microbreweries and waterfalls.

Presentation Solutions: That sounds so picturesque.

The Perfect Vacation Source: It really is. And it’s a fantastic place to go horse riding and biking too.

Presentation Solutions: Where else would you point people towards?

The Perfect Vacation Source: We would definitely suggest that they visit Cairns.

Presentation Solutions: What are some of the highlights in Cairns?

The Perfect Vacation Source: There are amazing fruit farms which grow mangoes, bananas and pineapples.

Presentation Solutions: What you’re describing almost sounds like Paradise.

The Perfect Vacation Source: It truly is. And there is also fantastic seafood and organic bush food.

Presentation Solutions: There are rainforests in Australia, correct?

The Perfect Vacation Source: Oh, yes there are. And the Daintree Cape Tribulation Rainforest is an amazingly diverse area. It houses an extensive range of animals and plants.

Presentation Solutions: Is there anything else you would like to share before we wrap things up?

The Perfect Vacation Source: Yes, one more thing. We think that visitors to Australia should visit the Aboriginal areas. The Aboriginal people have a rich and amazing culture and many visitors find them awe-inspiring.

Presentation Solutions: Thank you so much for talking to us today.

The Perfect Vacation Source: It was our pleasure. Thanks for having us.

Learn more about what The Perfect Vacation Source offers club members at http://www.perfectvacationsource.com

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Guy Riordan Speaks: Building a Kayaking Safety Kit

In Outdoor Adventures on April 30, 2011 at 10:49 am

Guy Riordan

According to Guy Riordan, kayaking is a great experience that comes with great responsibility. A former United States Marine and gaming preserve owner, Guy Riordan is passionate about the outdoors. “Kayaking is a sincere love of mine and through the years I have learned some valuable tips on how to build an appropriate safety kit,” reports Guy Riordan. According to Guy Riordan, one hopes to never need to use safety training or safety kits, but “just in case” an outdoorsman is well-advised to be prepared.

A safety kit, according to Guy Riordan, is simple to construct. “There are some items that are pretty standard to have in the kit,” explains Guy Riordan. In case of an accident a boater will want antiseptic cream, band-aids of varying sizes and bandages/gauze. “A number of minor accidents can take place in the kayak or even when the kayak is still docked on shore,” points out Guy Riordan. With those items it is important to have aspirin or ibuprofen, along with some form of antacid. “These items help with pains of a different kind,” says Guy Riordan. Burn cream may also be necessary “as it is easy to get a bad sunburn off the water,” describes Guy Riordan.

Several other items that Guy Riordan recommends in a safety kit are energy related. “Kayaking is both emotionally and physically draining,” states Guy Riordan. “So having something to eat to boost your sugar is important,” adds Guy Riordan. While some recommend sugared candy, Guy Riordan recommends a healthier alternative such as an energy bar. “It is possible for a person to eat a great meal, hit the water and lose it all due to motion sickness,” explains Guy Riordan. Adds Guy Riordan, “An hour later their sugar will drop and they will be in need of an energy boost to continue the route.”

To construct the safety kit, Guy Riordan suggests purchasing a waterproof box. “This is important to keep all the items dry,” explains Guy Riordan. After putting the items in that box, place the box in a Ziplock sealable plastic bag. “You can use one bag or three bags, it is up to the boater,” comments Guy Riordan.

On longer, extended trips simply add a few more items to the kit. “I suggest taking an ice pack for sore muscles or other injuries,” says Guy Riordan. Guy Riordan also recommends bringing a change of dry clothes, a thermal blanket and a lighter. “You will need a lighter to make the night time camp fire or in case of emergency and you need to stay warm,” concludes Guy Riordan.

About Guy Riordan

In 1969, Guy Riordan began a life of service as he joined the United Sates Marine Corp. For the next three years of the Vietnam War era, Guy Riordan would serve as crew chief for Sikorsky helicopters earning the rank of corporal. Following his faithful service in the Marine Corp, Guy Riordan earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from the University of Albuquerque, graduating Cum Laude. Later, Guy Riordan would attend the Pepperdine University School of Law.

Following Pepperdine, Guy Riordan began working his way through the financial and securities industry. From 1982 to 1984, Guy Riordan served clients from his position with Quinn and Company, a New York Stock Exchange member firm. In 1984, Guy Riordan joined Raucher, Pierce and Refsnes, later moving to Albuquerque AG Edwards in 1989. In 1994, Guy Riordan joined the team of Southwest Securities. Beginning in 1997, Guy Riordan spent the next decade with First Union/Wachovia Securities, servicing clients in the greater Albuquerque New Mexico area.

During this time, Guy Riordan began to pursue another personal passion, boxing. From 2002 to 2005 Guy Riordan Boxing promoted some of the biggest names in the sport. Guy Riordan’s boxing client list included three-time world champion Danny Romero and six-time world champion Johnny Tapia. In addition, Guy Riordan co-promoted NABF heavyweight champion Taurus Sykes. Guy Riordan co-promoted a NABF/NABA heavyweight championship bout between Sykes and heavyweight champion Samuel Peters, featured in 2005 on the Showtime Cable Network. Rounding out his resume of boxing promotion, Guy Riordan was a co-owner of Maloof Brothers Boxing with Sacramento Kings’ famed Joe and Gavin Maloof.

Guy Riordan has always held civic duty as important. As a life long resident of Albuquerque, Guy Riordan worked on the Board of Directors for the Hispano Chamber of Commerce. For three years, Guy Riordan also served as a board member for the Albuquerque Museum Foundation. Guy Riordan’s life of service would continue into the state government arena of public service.

A former elected commissioner of the La Joya Water Association, Guy Riordan returned to his college alma mater as a member of the University of Albuquerque Foundation, serving for five years from 1982 – 1985. Guy Riordan would later continue his life of public service through numerous positions and appointments. Guy Riordan holds real estate licenses in both New Mexico and Florida and has served as a governor appointee of the New Mexico Mortgage Finance Authority. Guy Riordan was also a mayoral appointee, serving on the Albuquerque/Chihuahua Bilateral Commission, was a gubernatorial appointee as Commissioner for the Judicial Nominating Commission as well as the New Mexico Governors Educational Retirement Board Task Force. Guy Riordan was also given the opportunity to expand his passion for the outdoors by receiving gubernatorial appointment and Senate confirmation to the New Mexico Game and Fish Commission. Riordan was later elected as chairman of the Game and Fish Commission.

An avid outdoorsman, Guy Riordan holds a Master Captains License from the U.S. Coast Guard. A former owner of Rancho De La Joya Game Preserve, Guy Riordan provided an area for upland game hunting along the banks of the beautiful Rio Grande River. Guy Riordan’s shooting preserve provided clients with the ability to hunt quail, pheasant, chuckar, snow geese, and ducks and Canadian geese. Guy Riordan’s Rancho De La Joya Game Preserve offered a fully automated sporting clays and five-stand course. Guy Riordan’s love of the outdoors, including hunting, fishing and kayaking have positioned him on national television shows including Jimmy Houston and Wayne Pierson Outdoors. Guy Riordan also owns http://www.adventurefishing.com

The first love and passion of Guy Riordan is, however, his family. Married for over twenty-four years, Guy Riordan and wife have laid the foundation of their lives on each other and their children. Guy Riordan and his family reside outside of Albuquerque, New Mexico.