Go ahead and sign up for the gold card. I have had mine since 2006 and I get free drinks after purchasing 15; a free drink for my birthday and coupons for money off new food items.
Bring your own cup and save the Earth. And ten cents off on your drink! Also I have a laminated card with my drink specs. Makes it easy on the barista.
It's gets busy and a bit crowded around 4 with a lot of high school kids... So if you're trying to do some work get there before then so you'll have a good seat