Seal the ends now with some shellac.
Now is the time to get that bark off. Or in a month would be ideal while the sapwood is flowing up in your area. tap the ends of the log or stave with a hammer or soemthing and that bark should peel right off.
No ring chasin needed, and if that bark comes off nicely, you will have a prestine back with no ring violations to make your bow. You can use heart wood too or belly splits.