I would love for you to come to the Midwest sometime for a class. I would definately try to scrounge up the cash for your class. We cook on nothing but our wsm's and don't plan on changing anytime soon.
If doing the beef and ribs together, make sure you stager the position. Ribs on one side of the top and beef and the bottom rack but opposite side of the ribs.
We have been brining our chicken and using a little spicier rub and then a sweet sauce. It has been working quite well for us. We have had 4 walks out of 5 contests since going that route. The brine has been adding a great flavor to the meat.