I also spotted that address and sent them this note:
"Is it recommended that an elevated platform with a cutout for the hull framing be used, as you have done? What is the reason for the timbers laying flat on said platform? Is it because you perhaps slightly overcut the opening and are maneuvering the timbers so their ends are precisely in the proper location for the frames to temporarily abut to? Does the platform obstruct your ability to work on the keel area? Is this a scratch-built or kit POF model?"
And, just now, I read your reply to my question. It seems as though we agree on the purpose of the strips. And I agree with you that the platform should be at deck level and i need to revise my cut-out template based on the frame profiles, as you have described.
With the nib stuff, I am leaving the keel tight to it, and will shim the prow against the jig to prevent forward slippage.
By the way, in my opinion, it seems risky to have a wooden live well, right in the middle of a vessel. So many possible points of leakage. No decent bilge pumps back then - I presume.