costco membership scam

I joined Costco in February of 2006. When February 2007 rolled around, I decided not to rejoin. I rejoined in September of 2007. When I used my membership card in February of 2008 I was told I had to pay again. WHAT??? They said it wasn't their fault I didn't use my membership for 7 months. That is a bunch of bullsh**. My new membership should be from September 07-September 08.