RE: CG Question
Ordinarily I'd agree with you but I'm unsure about a canard type plane like your Long-EZ. How did the instructions say to balance it? That is the way to do it, and only that way. And unless the instructions said to put fuel in the tank , it should be done dry. READ!! and FOLLOW the instructions.
EDIT: Forgot to mention, Pretty plane. I hope it flies well for you.