Posted for "Larry Graves" <larry-graves@comcast.net>:

 Hi Bill,
 
 Thanks for your email, and sorry for the delay in responding. I've been out
 of town for the past four days without a laptop and I'm just wading through
 a considerable stack of incoming.
 
 It's true I did leave AirCrafters in June of 2002 when I sold my interest in
 the company to business partner Dave Saylor. He is still operating
 AirCrafters and to my knowledge is still providing high-quality
 builder-assistance services. Dave and I just had very different personal
 styles and operating philosophies, and so we decided it was in the best
 interest of the company and our customers to part ways. I still love the
 industry and everything that flies, so I'm sure I'll be back into it one
 day.
 
 When I was there we started hosting EAA Sportair Workshops, and I think
 AirCrafters still does that every year in the March/April timeframe.
 
 I've been out of touch for a long time however, so my recommendations would
 be based purely on what I've been reading lately - in other words, the same
 info you have available via this list and through word-of-mouth (still the
 most influential I think). One thing you might want to consider is posting
 your question to the LML; just ask people on the list for a recommendation
 for one or two good builder assist shops in the Northern CA or West Coast
 area and see what you get.
 
 I've always been a firm believer in the idea that if you provide good solid
 quality and value, people will talk about it and the word will get out. A
 little advertising is a good idea too, but happy customers will do a lot of
 that for you. At one point in early 2002 AirCrafters employed 10 people
 full-time and we were very busy. Make sure that whatever shop you decide on,
 you visit that shop, meet the people and sign a contract so that everyone's
 expectations are fully understood up front.
 
 By the way, I'm glad to hear you are talking with Martin. He's one of the
 best guys I know, and the success of his company is a glowing reflection of
 his character and personality. You will not do better, and there are some
 really good avionics shops out there!
 
 Larry Graves
 650-793-2277
 
"""
 I spoke with you a year or so ago about bringing my LIV-P down to
 Aircrafters to accelerate my completion. I heard from Martin Elshire that
 you had left Aircrafters. Is this true?

 If not let me know. If it is true, do you still recommend Aircrafters or do
 you have any other suggestions. How about Warren Hogge in San Diego?

 I would appreciate your advice. My thought is to have the wings (old fast
 build, September 1996) done in a builders shop, as I devote full time to the
 fuselage. Is this a reasonable way to go?
 
 Thanks,
 William L. (Bill) George
 bgeorge@innercite.com
 530-642-8063
 8820 Rock Creek Road
 Placerville, CA  95667
"""