Good stuff Phil. You will be hooked in seconds
Sorry to hear about your kite problem. Im sure once you get bored and acquire more skill you will want to progress to windsurfing
I was at Anaconda last night and saw their SUPs. I noticed the Guy Leech board had the 'vent screw' in the same spot as you described. If so make sure that this is screwed in. Water in board equals bad Also if you plan to store the board in a hot shed/car for long periods it might be good practice to take the vent screw out so the board can breath. Air travel is another time you should take the screw out.
In regards to the fins, yes the rounded side goes on the outside.
I hope you have heaps of fun

Hahaha glad you saw that I was only mucking around Phil There are some people who take these forums way too serious.
Its just the way the board is constructed. Just remember that whatever you do make sure that the vent screw is in before you put it in the water.
Have fun and post some pics