that's where my mary came from. i was there today and noticed they swapped the road bike outta the window for the mary. NICE!
the ONLY reason i bought the mary 29 vs. another SS 29er...and i stress ONLY...is b/c john @ CW didn't think i'd have an issue with the bottom bracket. it was a huge concern from me but he assured me that i wouldn't have an issue. as you mentioned, the way the EBB sets and locks in should keep it there, even with the abuse that i tend to put on bikes.
as for the bars, welp, pedaling around my yard and the road they feel pretty good. hopefully one day this week, and at the very latest this weekend, i'll get to shake it down and i'll have a better idea. they are very comfortable, i can tell you that. my concern is how the handling is going to be in the more techy sections. time will tell...