DaRev, Spirit does not fly out of Newark - what i meant was my airport choices are Newark, Philadelphia and Atlantic City. Spirit flies out of AC in this area, and it is cheaper for me than going to Phila or Newark. Sorry for confusion.
Captaind they do charge for a standard carry on - but allow one personal item to carry on. I've continued to use a standard carry on as my personal item and never was charged nor questioned.
And with their miles - I have not had a problem using them. My flight in January is using their miles, and it is only cost me $102.00 total for 2 people - just taxes. Not a bad deal.