I think OP's anger is misdirected. Yes, you're not going to get an elite experience at Choice the way you will at Starwood but at the same time, there are very few cities in the US over 2000 people (and often less) that will not have a Choice hotel. That can be an incredible advantage. I haven't had as many Choice stays as some here, but I've rarely had any where I was disappointed. I'm glad they're an option.