Interested in starting this "hobby".  I thought a good first step would be to read through the newbie board (which I've done).

I get the impression that it would be a good idea to read reviews of any provider that I may have an interest in.  In order to get full reviews, I need to subscribe as a VIP member.

My only concern with this is getting on mailing list that mails related material to me at home that my SO would definitely question.  Can I be assured of this not happening?

For one, membership would drop DRAMATICALLY if that were to happen. If you want to take extra precautions, don't sign up/renew via credit card. Even though the charge says "Warped Monkey LLC", you never know what the credit card computers are going to associate you with.

Instead, go to the post office and get yourself a money order and mail it to TER. The instructions are in the VIP community section under "VIP by Money Order".

when you send in the money order, write on the form "Do not email me" That will go into your profile and you won't have to worry about it.
My email is not private and I've had no problems!

You dont have to be on the mailing list. I'm not and I dont even have an SO.

If you are concerned about what you will receive, then get a different e-mail address from yahoo, hotmail, or even hushmail.

- m