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Anyone still using non-rechargeable AA's and AAA's deserves it.

Sorry I have tried to get off them but for infrequently used devices they are much better, they can be stored for long periods and are still good, rechargeable will self discharge and be dead when you go to use and probably wont recharge anymore. Rechargeables require a float charge if being stored.

I just replaced a 9v in my infrared thermometer that finally died after 4 years...

That's not true anymore, the new nimh cells like Panasonic eneloops can sit on a shelf for 10+ years and have most of their charge left (70% after 10 years according to their packaging).

Not really. Discount chains sell them for $1 for a 4 pack.

I just paid $13 for 60x Rayovaks AA at Walmart.com... but it's still too much

The price for these batteries are what the market allows, not correlated with the production cost. At cost, I bought Duracell from the plant with a few dollars a pound (a decade ago I worked for them).