I have no connection to Lee VonErck, but I have had 3 of his pipes, and am smoking one regularly still. (I had to sell others to raise capital)
Lee if from Negaunee, Michigan in the Upper Penninsula of Michigan. He does excellent work. He akso does repair work if you have a need.
I was just informed the he has updated his site. Here's the link:
http://von-erck.com/
If nothing else, look at his pipes, they are unique and beautiful, if nothing else.