I never got the email announcing all these changes, so I called Mon; took a second call to get someone who could confirm what we've discussed here. She promised to see that I got the email. Yesterday, still no email, so left them a message. Today's reply simply listed the changes, with one added note I've not seen before:
Existing and new customers between 7/25/2016 and 9/1/2016 will continue
to enjoy the benefits that are being discontinued until July 23, 2017.
New customers after 9/1/2016 will not have access to the Admiral Club,
access to golf courses but no complimentary rounds, 4th Night Stay the
statement credit will be an average of the hotel stay and taxes and fees
will not be credited.
So, anyone who wants all the benefits that are going away next July, even if it's for less than a year, needs to apply quite soon.