Why now when the economy will be very weak for 2009?

Simple: Given the recesion looming for 2009, hotel rooms will go unsold, so giving us a "no blackout" features, wont really cost Marriott anything for thos whom will cash their rewards before Jan 15. Most of hotels next year will not be full!

This is a good timing for Marriott to induce changes and they like memebers to use their points next year, that will help feel the hotel rooms and reduce the point balance MR has overall.

Those whom will not use their point will pay more.. simple.

MR had many changes in their program, not for our "Elite members'" benefit. Last major one has been in 2001 - anyone remember? Do you remember the 100% bonus points MR used to give you for a stay when you rented a car also from Hertz? Do you remember the 100% bonus points you got as a Platinum member? But it was never a case of devaluration of the already earned points! Certainly not presented as a "benefit" spin that MR was "listening" to guests wishes and made these changes for our benefit.

So yes, MR expects us to cash the points as many as we can and stay next year to help fill those empty hotels room during the 2009 world wide recession ...!

Good job Marriott!

TL