| To: Samuel Bolles who wrote (63) | 5/10/1997 1:09:00 AM | | From: David Wideman | | | |
Hi Samuel,
Thanks for the kind words <<You are the eyes and ears of Z-G-H.>>
Maybe more fitting to say "Have you ever thought about investing in a
company that actually had any REVENUES?"
Answer: Been there, done that. This is much more fun. Honestly (& I
realize I'm crazy), but I feel more comfortable with G, H & Z than I
would with Coca-Cola or Microsoft, considering (IMHO) there strataspheric
P/E's relative to growth, and my perceived over-valuation of the market
in general (& a guy named Greenspan, etc.)
Of course, a company with NO revenue has no EPS, but what the heck.
My "portfolio" is by no means large, less than one year's salary.
That's the best reason I know not to take anything I say as "gospel",
but cyberspace has become a big hobby of mine. Fun, challanging &
rewarding to search & find info on these companies, their principals,
and industries. I enjoy talking with the folks at ICC - a lot more than
they enjoy talking with me, I'm sure.
I have 4 holdings (G, H, Z & an even bigger gamble, if you can believe
that - IMMM, a little company with "supposedly" a breakthrough
technology in locating the best place to drill a hole & find "black
gold").
Current holdings:
45% GOAE, 45% ZMAX, 5% HARD, 5% IMMM
Re: ZMAX NASDAQ listing. I'm not sure at all, but it is my "best guess"
ZMAX will be listed on NASDAQ sometime in June. "Rumor" has it that the
filing process is well underway.
Please note that my "best guess" does not mean "Put it in the bank".
I feel pretty good about it, but I've felt that way since February.
Good luck,
David |
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| To: mark s who wrote (64) | 5/10/1997 1:35:00 AM | | From: David Wideman | | | |
Mark,
Great "find" re Doug Friedenberg. I'll bet you're right when you say
<<He must have got some good answers.>>
Not too many folks would drop $174K if they got bad answers, would
they? <g>
I also agree with you that the 5-year, $250M projection is difficult/
impossible to project (& I don't see how any company can achieve and
maintain a 25% net margin for very long), but I feel pretty comfortable
with their 1-2 year outlook.
Even though I was told by Greg @ ICC to "throw all the old press releases
in the trash can", these acquaintances are evidently in place, at least to
some degree.
Also, and even more importantly, the actual test results are not
fraudulent. The product is real (IMHO).
This publication did mention that these projections are "conservative".
I don't know about that, but I do know that I'll be pleased if they
come anywhere near these #'s. Glad you picked up on the PE of 20; I was
trying to be conservative (is that possible when I'm saying in the same
breath that this stock could make me rich?), but for HARD to reach $250M
in 5 years, revenues would have to double every year (16, 32, 64, 128, 256)
I was too embarrassed to mention a PE of 80-100, but it's OK to dream,
ain't it?
BTW, I'm ignorant, but trying to learn. How did you pull up the 13D
Edgar info? The links I've found just tell me "No ZMAX info available."
Thanks & good luck,
David |
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| To: David Wideman who wrote (65) | 5/11/1997 9:24:00 PM | | From: MCorbley | | | |
Hello David
So far I've had only questions about HARD and haven't made an investment, but that will probably change soon. Coincidentally, however, I do have a small position in IMMM. A long shot, but possibly a very profitable one.
Regards,
Michael |
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| To: MCorbley who wrote (68) | 5/12/1997 6:49:00 PM | | From: David Wideman | | | |
Michael,
Good to hear from another IMMM'er. Just left that thread; seems like the
link you posted would end the HYPE/SCAM talk, but "Family Feud" appears
to continue undaunted.
I fully understand that I should have my head examined, but I picked up
some more IMMM. I'm thinking that I may break one more piggy bank
& buy some more HARD. With production coming on-line, HARD should be getting
some good PR soon. Share cancellation shouldn't hurt, either.
Good luck (and soon!),
David |
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| To: David Wideman who wrote (69) | 6/5/1997 11:56:00 AM | | From: David Wideman | | | |
Update:
I have recently had the pleasure of speaking with one of the key management
at HARD. Although maybe nothing earth-shattering, hopefully this will serve
as confirmation of what we've previously heard.
A summary of this conversation, plus conversations with Mark @ ICC, and
probably a couple of IHMO's along the way (Preface by the fact that I am
relaying this info as best possible - if I've "missed the boat" at any
time, I would appreciate correction from Mark or others who know):
Equipment is coming into plant.
Within a couple of weeks, NovaCrete will be in "full" production, i.e.
initial production as set forth in business plan.
6 employees currently. More will be added, particularly in area of marketing.
True, 6 employees isn't many. But we're talking about a virtual "start-up"
company with less than a $4M cap and reportedly a great product.
Internal #'s suggest that HARD can be profitable; one advantage = relatively
low cost of raw materials.
Although many competitors are currently in the marketplace, i.e. not so much a
"brand new product" - the first car, microwave, hula-hoop, etc. but rather
a "new and improved product" with which to offer a HUGE market, growth
goals as stated in the Windward article I posted awhile back are not thought
to be unachievable in terms of revenue. In terms of profit margins, the
marketplace will decide.
In terms of product, technical analyses as published at NoveCrete web site
are accurate to the best of management's knowledge.
Product is thought to be "as good" in virtually all cases, and "better"
in many cases. Price will be competitive, possibly incrementally less
expensive. In most scenarios, cost will not be final determinant of customer
choice, most decisions will be based on quality.
One of NovaCrete's primary strangths is that it is mineral-based vs.
polmer-based.
Although contracts listed are not valid, some/most/all of these contacts
are established. We're not starting from "ground zero", in terms of customer
relationships.
From my question, "How is financing of plant being arranged? Doesn't sound
like former management left much cash in the coffers."
Plant has been internally financed on a "pay as you go" plan through shares
and debt that can be converted to equity. More on this later.
Revised finincials have been received. Ready for publication soon, best
guess within 30-45 days. All numbers are in place, hold-up is due to
making sure all "i's" dotted & "t's" crossed for 10-K & 10-Q.
FY = June-May. A loss, though relatively small in nature, will be
reported for FY ended 05/31/97.
Currently, HARD has no money, no debt. Slightly positive shareholder's
equity, as some nominal amounts of inventory exist.
May need $.5M-$1M down the road, to develop marketing team, etc.
Money, if not provided by operations, will probably be raised through
some form of convertible debt. If things go well, maybe debt not needed.
Share cancellation - still in the works. Taken longer than anticipated,
but goal is to complete this cancellation once and for all, with no
ongoing litigation.
Next probable shareholder's meeting, Labor Day +/- a month.
Plant located approximately 10 minutes from Toronto airport, if anyone
interested in visitation. I believe that, with advance notice, we would
be welcomed.
Re: Plant/financing alluded to earlier:
When I heard that plant was being financed on a "pay as you go" basis,
I facetiously asked, "Well, I'm sure this isn't a $1B plant."
Laughing reply, "No, as a matter of fact, you can safely say that this
is even less than a $1M plant."
For a hint, I'll post the following link from EDGAR. I hope it'll re-post
here, since you've gotta register for EDGAR. I'll summarize, just in case:
edgar-online.com
This is link to Form SC 13D/A, filed May 14, 1997.
Indicates that Douglas Friedenberg currently owns 1,317,000 shares, quite
a substantial addition to his original investment. Interesting to
note that Doug's average price was $.35/share. HARD opened this a.m. at an
ASK of $.38.
From the discussion, my general feel (that makes this another IMHO) is
that management is intent on looking at, and seeking out, other opportunities.
I don't think that we'll see a lot of hype, just be able to watch as the
story unfolds.
In reading the bios of the 4 Directors, one senses that this isn't your
typical band of concrete jocks.
At this low price of late, I've averaged down on HARD. Seems like most
investors who are smarter/wealthier than I advise against this, but this
case looks like it may be worth a shot.
Although I've added to my position in HARD, I'm still a couple of shares
short of Doug. <g>
Well, that's everything I know (and think) about HARD. Headed out of town
for a few days. Hope this helps, and that all have a great weekend.
David |
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| To: David Wideman who wrote (70) | 6/23/1997 2:07:00 PM | | From: Samuel Bolles | | | |
HARD -- Releases earnings and financial reports
NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--June 23, 1997--Stratford Acquisition (OTC:HARD) announced Monday that the company's manufacturing facility in Mississauga, Ontario began production of the NovaCrete proprietary concrete additive on June 3, nearly a month ahead of schedule.
Stratford Acquisition will increase production levels significantly in July when the first phase of an automated production system is installed. The company has retained Advanced Integrated Resources of Burlington, Ontario, to locate, procure, and integrate all production equipment into the facility, which was leased at the beginning of May.
Stratford Acquisition also released an audited restatement of its May 31, 1996 fiscal year earnings and the unaudited subsequent quarterly financial reports, as shown below.
Year Ended Nine Months Ended
May 31, 1996 Feb. 28, 1997
Audited Statement Unaudited
Revenues $ 140,741 -0-
Total operating expenses $ 518,954 $545,685
Net loss per weighted-average
share of common stock outstanding ($ 0.07) ($ 0.06)
Weighted-average number of shares
of common stock outstanding 5,552,407 9,068,566
(approximate)
The Form 10-K/A for the period ending May 31, 1996, and the Forms 10-Q for the three month periods ending Aug. 31, 1996, Nov. 30, 1996, and Feb. 28, 1996, have all been filed with the SEC. May 31, 1997 fiscal year reporting will be announced as soon as figures are available.
The company further announced that Colin Rayner has left its board of directors effective June 3.
A.R. MacMillan, president of Stratford Acquisition, stated, `Completion of our restatement of previous management's financial reporting, plus other corrective measures we have taken, mark the end of the rehabilitation phase of Stratford's development.
``At this time, we are fully focused on product definition, production, and effective marketing. The coming year should prove a
refreshing experience for shareholders.''
Stratford Acquisition researches, develops and manufactures an additive that enhances the performance of mortars used in new construction and in the repair of deteriorating concrete structures.
The additive is blended, in various proportions, with cement and sand to create a wide range of special application mortars. The additive also increases the strength and durability of concrete used in residential, commercial, and industrial applications. |
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| To: Samuel Bolles who wrote (71) | 6/25/1997 6:19:00 PM | | From: David Wideman | | | |
Samuel,
Looks like our "new" story is beginning to unfold.
Some OPINIONS only, so take this as FWIW:
From SFDA 10-K last September, 4.0M "restricted" shares were issued to
founders, insiders and promoters in April, 1995. From reading this
document, looks like everybody including the cleaning lady was good
for at least 50K shares.
Recent press release called for some 1.8M shares to be cancelled. From
what I understand, final tally may be even greater.
That still leaves lots of loose shares which have outlived their
2-year restriction on selling.
That may be the reason for the stock activity of the last few days,
which I'll summarize because I have nothing better to do right now <g>:
5 trading days ended June 16: Volume = 18K (<4K/day)
Closing price June 16: $.34
5 trading from June 17-23: Volume = 1018K (203K/day)
Closing price June 23: $.26
A possible scenario: Much of this 1+ million shares may have been "dumping"
prior to culmination of share cancellation. Sounds as though this
cancellation is close to complete.
Trading activity these last 2 days has seen no major dumping, as 2-day
volume has averaged 98K shares (79K & 118K) with an increase in price.
Still seems quite possible that many shares may remain in weak hands,
so I don't think we can exclude the possibilty of more dumping.
Over the long haul (which is my objective here), who cares?
IMHO, we've got a good one.
The fact that Messrs. McMillan, Friedenberg & Dowe are running a little
AHEAD OF SCHEDULE only helps me to sleep better.
Seeing as how I'm planning on the long haul for this one, I probably
won't be posting much, only if I come upon some new "revelation" (which
ain't likely to be very often).
If you'll send me your e-mail (mine is DW85@aol.com)we'll keep in touch.
Good luck,
David
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| To: David Wideman who wrote (72) | 7/29/1997 1:15:00 AM | | From: David Wideman | | | |
New thread under Startford (HARD) - Forum: Five Dollars & Under
Figured with the symbol change, plus the fact that the story seems
to be developing well, might as well start a new thread. Maybe newcomers
can find it easier.
David |
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| To: Samuel Bolles who wrote (71) | 11/14/1997 8:40:00 AM | | From: sheldon cohen | | | |
Stratford Acquisition Corp./NovaCrete Technology Inc. HARD OTC NASDAQ
Every company strives to achieve new innovations and set the standards in their own
particular niche. The opportunities can be enormous for investors, who understand
these challenges and issues that are currently being dealt with, and can identify
tomorrow's
leading companies, this investor can be well rewarded.
HARD OTC NASDAQ, is one of them, Demand for high performance concrete
repair products is growing at a dramatic pace. Infrastructure in both developed and
developing countries is aging and crumbling. Cash-strapped governments are looking
for effective
and durable alternatives to costly demolition and rebuilding and for more durable new
concrete structures. The market for performance enhancing additives for cementitious
products will reach $850 million by the year 2000 in the U.S. alone. At that time the
value
of world-wide markets for these products should exceed $2 Billion.
Now there is a cost effective, high performance alternative.
Stratford Acquisition Corp./NovaCrete Technology Inc. HARD OTC NASDAQ
proprietary formula for a mineral based additive provides revolutionary strength and
bonding performance. It is safe to use and does not harm the environment. The
admixture is the basis for a line of products specially designed to meet a variety of
repair, retrofitting and new construction needs. These products significantly outperform
competing products, at a lower cost without adding hazardous chemicals.
HARD OTC NASDAQ, marketing strategy is to become a major world supplier of
high performance admixtures, and to develop and market specialty repair and
retrofitting products. To focus on high performance end users, highway departments
and large
construction companies, and to the consumer from big box home renovation retailers.
They are also building alliances with established distributors who have good
mixing/blending facilities and a strong market share in there region.
THE PEOPLE: The driving force behind the success of HARD OTC NASDAQ is
A.Roy MacMillan, President and Chairman of the Board. Before I invested in this
company I did extensive due diligence, from contacting industry analysts, brokers, the
competition,
and speaking a length to Mr. MacMillan. Previously a Director of Stratford Acquisition
Corporation, Mr. MacMillan became president in 1996. He has had an amazing career
from successful construction companies, founding president of Brascan International
Trading and as Senior Executive in the parent company, Brascan Ltd. His foreign
service career took him to Europe, developed the Canadian Economic Assistance
Program in English speaking Africa, and then serving on the Board of Executive
Directors of the World Bank.
It's easy to see why the success of HARD is riding on his shoulders, with his
construction expertise and market contacts, hands on approach, the day to day
operations are run from
his office, and his extensive contacts in international markets which will increase
HARD's market share and investor stock price. The next two years HARD will make
most of its money from international contracts.
On the domestic front HARD looking to beef up the management in the U.S.
announced that William Lavin has joined the board of directors Mr. Lavin is the former
CEO of Woolworth Corp. He was the CEO from 1993 to 1994
Other directors are: Mr. Daniel Dowe, founded the Wall street law firm of Dowe &
Dowe, previously he was an associate attorney for the New York firm of Donohue &
Donohue, also as an analyst with J.P. Morgan Investment Management Inc. Mr. Dowe
is a member of both the New York and New Jersey Bar Associations.
Douglas S. Friedenberg, president of Firebird Capital Management, a financial
advisory firm, he served as president of Unicom Capital Management, an investment
firm. Previously he was an investment manager at Morgan Stanley. Mr. Friedenberg is
also a director of Datametrics Corporation.
It is clear that with Mr. MacMillan at the reins there are many avenues the company
will be able to profitably exploit, this is what spells opportunity, as I see it. This
company satisfies all my prerequisites for a speculative investment: there are people
involved with a solid track record, shares can be purchased for just pennies, the
products are cutting edge, the products are less expensive than there competition, and
environmentally safe. I do not believe that shares should be purchased for a quick ride.
It will take time for the fundamentals to develop, and I always hesitate to try and
predict a time frame. That said, I have accumulated approximately 40,000 shares at
the current price and at these prices will be accumulating more, I am prepared to
watch company developments closely for at least one year, confident that even a
moderate level of success will yield a triple digit return. |
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