I guess I'll stick with the great rate in Seattle, but one or two of the others actually works out better booking myself. When I factor in getting points, qualifying stays, free breakfast with booking AAA rate and upgrade potential it's better to go the old fashioned way.
Also, from what i'm hearing it sounds like when you use the employee rate they make sure you get the worst room in the house. And while I'm doing everything on the level I don't like the idea of having to bring a letter with me. Gives me the feeling of bringing a signed note from my parents to the principals office after doing something bad in school.
Thanks for the info everyone!
btw, having recently found this site I want to say that this place is great. There is really a wealth of information on here.