Quite a large project - worthwhile I'm sure. They look fantastic and are drool-worthy!
Living in the northeast, my wife and I had our first Tamales a few years ago at a wonderful local mexican place - they are delicious.
If you're ever down around Providence, check out the taco truck run by a high school bud :
http://www.yelp.com/biz/pacos-tacos-mobile-mex-cranston-2
By the way, Dave, I will send you my address
Truer words have not been spokenOne can never have enough tamales!!!