It's not required. I did do it though.
If you do decide to do them, pull the top hose first and block off, then the bottom. If you have both disconnected at the same time the fluid comes out REALLY fast.
As for the TB, if you live in a warmer climate I would bypass it. If you are way up north you might want to keep it if the car will be left outside in sub freezing temps. The coolant flows through the TB so that the butterfly won't get frozen. Probably not a big deal unless you park it out in the elements.