Hello all!

My name is Mark and just recently I've been playing around with the idea of commuting to work. As I'm just beginning the process, I figured I would ask the opinions of some seasoned vets around here for advise. My commute is 11 miles one way. There's a pretty good chunk of hill work through out, and a few rough roads. What I currently have is a Hybrid Schwinn Avenue bike I bought from Wal-Mart a few years ago in college. Now, I've read a few mixed things about this bike, that it may not be suitable for commuting, but I honestly have no idea. I haven't used the bike in probably two years after graduating and my commute was about an hour driving (yuck!) Within the past year I got a new job, and with the help of some unexpected expenses, thought about biking to work to save money and get a good workout. I just took the bike out of the basement yesterday, and replaced the inner tubes. I did notice that my wheel seems like it may be a bit bent out of shape, as it rubs on the brake pads in a few spot. Is there a way to take care of this myself, or will I have to get a new rim? For my commute would it be better for a hybrid or a road bike?

I really do apologize for all the questions, but I really have only just begun and haven't had the time to search through everything.

Thanks for any and all help/advise!