Going by the center of the pH paper, it looks to be between 5 and 6, however, the edges of the paper lean more acidic, I am guessing because of evaporation/capillary action and reading from there may be less accurate. Want to follow up with some CA solutions in fresh EA to make sure my readings are actually accurate.

The solid was off-white, and formed a crust around the glass rod when it was washed with fresh EA.

I think that's possible, I haven't tried a chemical dry yet, but I will on my next round.