Thanks, Phil!
I did pick through some of the dowel rods to find better ones. I specifically put back rods that had knots, splits, or other issues to ensure that when I assembled the bench ends that the pins wouldn't split or break. I know they can really flex, so I wanted to be sure.
The GABF was very fun. Tried so many beers that I would have never even known about. It's amazing what's out there. It's like a golden age for craft beer right now.