09/01/05

Dear Dave:

As you may recall, I attended your aerobatic 4-day school during the first week in August. Since my return to New York, I've reset my airplanes' throws, centers of gravity and trims, with my first real understanding of their relationships to the plane and my skill level due to your instruction. I've now had 4 weeks to reflect on my experiences during that week as well as the reasons for attending your school and I'd like to share them with you.

The past three years I flew 3 times a week, but I had not become comfortable with my landings even though I felt pretty comfortable in the air. I subscribed to most of the magazines in the hobby and purchased several books on the subject along with a simulator for use during the winter. I also sought the advice of several club members, and while I improved somewhat, I never grew to the next level of comfort or skill. During this past winter, having previously purchased and reviewed two of your books, I made the decision to attend your 4-day aerobatic school. It was one of the wisest decisions I made to improve my skill in the hobby at a time that I was becoming discouraged with my progress.

Those 4 days rejuvenated my interest and desire to improve. You are an incredible teacher, who mixes the right amount of enthusiasm with an enormous knowledge of flight. That resulted in my real understanding of control inputs and consistency, while once again, growing motivation. You taught consistency and common sense during flight and you brought it all together during the following "ground" schools. Your mastery of sound principles of teaching are on a level with the most accomplished educators of teachers that I know.

I will contact you later this fall to schedule a follow-up week with you next spring.

With my deep appreciation and thanks,

Herb Carpenter