Book it - I'll do everything I can to be there (so will Drex).
Looking at the map, it looks like it makes more sense for me to hoof it right to md's on Friday and then trek over to Juan's on Saturday morning. Drex and JV will have to caravan down separately.
As for beer, Becks light is good. I also like Goose Island (a Chicago brew) and Sam Adams. I can also handle Bud Light and Corona (with a lime, of course). I'm more of a wine snob then a beer snob