REI,

Northern Virginia? We have all those stores.

Seems like these MLM schemes follow the "logic" of chain letters - at least, the kinds of chain letters that used to ask you to send other people money. Now illegal. As these should be, I think.

Even write-offs require you to spend money first, though.

“Yeaaaahhhh ... I’m gonna have to ask you to go ahead and read the article ..."

Maybe you were thinking of Festivus?

Ooooh, I’d wait on you! Without EVER ONCE mentioning a stinking membership! (swoons)

Huh? Gamer’s Club? What store are you talking about?

Well, ignore speedgraphics' anecdata in favor of the reddit commentors' anecdata, because ... well, just because!

There’s a bank in the DC area that’s all folksy-like: Burke & Herbert. ONe

at least 40 AOL signups that month

I used to love shopping at C&B. Problem is, there’s not a damn thing I need from there anymore, since I'm a middle-aged person who already has every household thing I need! And then some. But it is such quality merchandise, and the staff are always so helpful and nice.

The “co-op” part isn’t really apparent, even if you’re member. REI is expensive, so maybe the organization bases store placement on how many wealthy people are in the vicinity.

Well, all the cashiers do, every time I go there, but I just say “No, thanks.” (Having been STUPID about credit cards in the past, I am debit-only.)

That IS stupid! The reason I buy anything at REI is because their sales people are so knowledgeable, and they never laugh at my questions or try to sell me equipment I don't need. And yes, I am a member.

I did, 35 years ago.

a public defender, I would imagine.

Sure ... because based on this “hearing,” it’s clear that the victim would not be shamed, blamed, or harangued in court, and that Hardy would be punished appropriately.

*snort*

In other words, "I don't care, because I don't have to."