Well I'm back from my trip and did not get upgraded at the Westin Excelsior. Instead, they told me they did not have any upgraded rooms available but offered to give me a room across the square at the Grand. The rooms we received were absolutely amazing.
I tend to complain and get snarky about recognition in the U.S. but my travels abroad, especially to Italy, tend to make my decision to do business with Starwood a very good one.
I have written letters to several Starwood reps and the hotel expressing my appreciation...simply amazing!