News In Brief

Elite D.C.-area club denied tax break over membership

A judge ruled Thursday that the exclusive Burning Tree Club, an all-male bastion for the elite of Washington, could not receive $150,000 in tax benefits because of its discriminatory practices.

Burning Tree, with a $12,000 initiation fee and more than $1,7000 in annual dues, for more than half a century has been an all-male club of the rich and powerful. Its membership has included presidents, members of Congress, and Supreme Court justices. President Ford frequently played golf there.