That's What Fools Are Made Of
by CAMillrd

The Structural Dynamics Research Corporation folder is home to one of the most active and successful non-Iomega forums in Fooldom. Those of us who participate there have profited handsomely this year, thanks in no small measure to the regular posters on that board.

As is the case with the auto industry we follow so closely, we at the SDRC Online Institute for the Nouveau Riche have our own Big Three. No, I'm not referring to GM, Ford, and Chrysler; I mean the REAL Big Three: CARDRX, Acisman, and SONDO! (All great screen names, don't you think?) Although some of us Fools knew their importance all along, their status was officially legitimized when they were all invited to SDRC's exclusive shareholders /analysts conference a couple months back. It's about time we paid them a tribute. Let's take them in reverse order, shall we?

SONDO---This new quadregenarian lives in Detroit, center of the action on the big SDRC Ford deal. This is the guy who confirmed that SDRC had in fact rented a huge office building across the street from Ford world headquarters.

Sondo's overriding quality, however, is his somewhat warped sense of humor. He keeps everything in perspective by not allowing us to take anything too seriously. I once e-mailed him that I enjoyed his posts, and he shot back something like: "I'm glad to hear it---I just thought I was irritating everybody!" SONDO: You're the straw that stirs the drink, you make me laugh, and. . . *sniff*. . . I love ya, man!

ACISMAN---A young buck, early 30's with a girlfriend in Detroit whom he visits occasionally, Acisman is a CAD engineer and consultant. Ace is our technical analyst---not as in technical stock analyst (that's the realm of the wise). No, this kid helps us understand the technology that SDRC is using to gain market share and kick competitors' backsides. He gives a sensible, balanced picture including pros and cons. Because of him, I can talk semi-intelligently about Computer Aided Design, Product Data Management, CAE, modules, specific CAD products, and the industry in general.

Acisman: You're the rock of common sense, you give us the scoop without the bull, and. . . *sniff*. . . *choke*. . . I LOVE ya, man!!

CARDRX---This here is The Man. The Godfadda. The originator of the SDRC Story on AOL. This unassuming, very human pharmacist gets downright emotional when it comes to his beloved SDRC. How old is he? Well, I'm not sure, but I picture him as a 49-year-old guy with tousled graying hair, dispensing prescriptions and advice at the corner drug store.

Card is the clearing house for info on our company. He gets the latest from around the country and passes it on to his buds on the board. He has kept track of the number of shares controlled by our participants. He keeps us up on SDRC's latest job listings---tangible evidence of dramatic growth. He keeps interest high by sponsoring contests, and provides the prizes himself. His frequent analyses keep reminding us what a good thing we're on to. Card has made about a dozen predictions as to the timing of the impending big Ford announcement, and he'll keep doing it until he gets it right!

CARD: You're the Head Cheerleader. You're a card, you need to be dealt with, and. . . *sniff*. . . *choke*. . . *sob*. . . and. . . I LOVE YOU, MAN!!!!!!

Three Cheers for the Big Three!! Hip-hip . . .