another option is leaving the rind on. some scotch bright and steel wool cleans it up nicely and gives it a natural look.
but if you scrape the rind off, when you sand it out take it outside and look at your back under natural light and make sure all your scrapper dents/marks are gone.
The ipe is 3/8" and the boo is 1/8" in center to 1/16" on tips. U don't think I can get 28" outta it? 60" bendy handle? The bad spot is about 8" from center.
28" is definitely doable.