I have gold status.
Well my follow up with another more friendly rep gave me a somewhat better outcome, but I've still lost considerable value because of the changes made.
This other rep told me that because of the schedule change they could override the system and create award seats, if a seat is available for sale. If the previous rep knew her stuff I would have saved alot of time and stress.
They agreed to put me on a flight Saturday, direct, getting in at 4pm, except that I'm now in coach. They also were able to change my return from Monday to Saturday, keeping me in first class on the way back.
So I decided to get in a day earlier, fly direct, but in coach as opposed to a day later, indirect, in first. I'll keep calling to see if business opens up, but that's probably unlikely given the season.
Regards.
Joe