thanks to all for suggestions, though i never did get the plane to work for me. i ended up using a surform for the worst ridges, then spent the day hanging out with a few sheets of 60 grit sandpaper and a palm sander. it is looking pretty good--tomorrow i have a date with the 100 grit :) unfortunately, the surform doesn't work well on glue smears (on the first three or four strips--BEFORE i started using a damp rag to mop up drips), so i was forced to go after them with a utility knife...tedious, but effective.

alas, the weeks since christmas have flown by and school begins again on tuesday...i have to spend as much quality time with my creation. Already i am trying to decide what my next boat will be. hmmmm.......

jessical