Although magnavores are very good for small and medium sized aquariums, that magnet will be very weak for that thick of acryllic. I would use this instead http://www.mightymagnets.com/store.htm. They are much better for tanks of this size.
For the rockwork I would highly recommend using z spar two part epoxy (available at boating supply stores and online) to attach rocks. This will make for a much stronger/permanent hold of the rockwork and allow you to cut away the zip ties. It is much stronger and stickier than the junk they sell at pet stores.
Also, whoever says that they should use a needlewheel skimmer instead of an etss probably has never used both. Etss brand skimmers are extremely effective skimmers (as effective as very expensive recirculating needlewheels) and are built very well. They also have the advantage of processing a larger volume of water which may be helpful in gas exchange. The only downside is the pump size required to run these things.
looking good. Very excited to see how it all does.
