I will likely be putting a unit together in the next 2 - 3 weeks. I will start asking around if people have seen the BSF up here, but I'm still pretty new to the area and am not aware of anyone that I know that composts or raises worms. I will keep me eye out though.
If the starter kit is the only option what extra precautions do you suggest I take from now until I introduce the micro population to the unit?
In regards to the ventilation, I was going to just drill several holes consecutively to make a vent similar to what you achieved and then sand the edges down for a more even look. Seems like it should be pretty easy to achieve. If I try it out I will let you know what happens.