Looking for a P&S

Alright guys, I have been wanting to get a point and shoot camera for a while and now I have a serious need for one and I am asking for your advice.

I am having a huge graduation party TOMORROW and I don't want to bring my D70 out to the party because you know that thing is WAY too big for that kind of crap.

Here is what I am looking for:
1.) Must be purchased at a store (no time for online delivery)
2.) Must have a cost cap of $300-350
3.) The main point of this camera will be drunken portrait shots (durability and good pre-set modes) and other fun, non-serious shots
4.) Hopefully a fast reaction time for shutter (not likely on a P&S)

So...that shouldn't be too hard, right?

I have been looking at the Nikon S50 but I have heard that Nikon is behind in quality on their P&S cameras. I have heard a lot about a T100 but not sure the brand and I have also heard a lot about some camera made by Sony.