#images
Before you fall into the "graphics pit", Ray, please understand that the things
you want to do are pretty common and are no problem when you have the tools.
The Starburst you mentioned is easily made in a paint program, or you could use
the Flare or Hilight IPAS routine from the Yost Group Boutique Image Processing
collection. Modeling and animating a train for Christmas is well within 3DS's
capabilities (I'd like to do one myself this year) and it's photo-realism will
be commensurate with your abilities as a modeler and animator. Since it's
volunteer work, maybe you could get a 3D digitizing company (like ViewPoint or
Accuris) to donate some mesh, and you could just apply materials, animate, and
render it. If, in fact, if I *do* get around to the train thing this year, I
would be glad to donate it, but I cannot say at this time whether I will get to
it or not. If you decide to model it yourself, I would suggest getting a real
toy or good 2D renderings to go by, and be sure to have a good working
knowledge of the various modeling abilities of the Shaper and Lofter, all
well-covered in the tutorials.
Best of luck!
-Alan Iglesias