There's a Doctor in the House, Celebration Ale

My wife has her PhD thesis defense on July 25th. This is the formal conclusion of her PhD research. Basically, she will be giving a public presentation on her research. Though the public is invited to attend, the presentation is mostly attended by her dissertation committee, research associates, and family and friends. After the defense, the lab celebrates with beer and champagne. I'm planning on having two homebrews available.

There's a Doctor in the House, Celebration Ale
5 Gallons, All Grain, Single Infusion Mash, 90 Minute Boil

11lbs. Domestic Two-Row
3/4lb. Crystal 60
1/4lb. Victory
2oz. Special Roast
2oz. Black Patent
2oz. Black Roasted Barely

1oz. Homegrown Chinook 60min.
1/4oz. Homegrown Chinook 30min.
1/4oz. Homegrown Centennial 30min.
1 Whirlfloc Tab 20min.
1/2oz. Hallertauer 4.2% 5min.

Safale, US-05 with a 24hr yeast starter
I've never used dried yeast before and thought that I'd give it a try. Dried yeast is significantly cheaper and many claim they're great. This strain is similar WLP001, White Labs California Ale. I know the California Ale yeast strain very well so it should be an interesting comparison.