Thanks for all the kind thoughts.
On another front, I've been experimenting with ways to build the Nighthawks Cafe without any laser cutting. I've purchased all the different windows from Grandt Line and Tichy, plus the doors. I've got all the drawing modified for hand making, and I'm trying to figure out the best way to use Masonite or MDF for the walls. I did an experiment using a Dremel with the router attachment and a 1/16" carbide bit, plus a piece of wood set up as a fence to guide the router cut. The test was marginally successfully. While the fence worked, I had to be very careful in guiding the device so it didn't wander away. I also have been thinking about how to set up the fence so it's very secure, but easily adjustable. I have a colleague who has a CNC router, but they've recently moved and I don't think his shop is set up yet. Also, I'd have to learn to use additional software to create the cutting program.
I'm also considering doing it the old fashioned way; using styrene for the walls and cutting the window openings with a razor knife either punching them directly out, or using the snap-and-glue method where you slice and dice up the walls, removing the window spaces and gluing the rest back together. I used this method when building the Victorian Station and it worked well. Besides, the walls are getting covered by Plastruct embossed brick sheeting which actually covers the entire wall without any splicing. I'll keep you abreast of any developments.
Meanwhile, work on the Essex continues apace. I've been working to finish the island with all that soldered brass scratch-build and Photo-etched stuff. It's been a challenging job. I paint and rig all this before fastening it to the deck.
