Ironically, in your zeal to promote loyalty to Marriott (as if it were one's native land), you ignore the effect of its decision to downgrade the lounges. A very possible consequence of this decision, and the probable reason why neither Starwood nor Hilton has embarked on such a course, is the loss of business, both temporary and permanent. The bottom line is the bottom line, and the impact of a loss of business versus the savings in expenses cannot be hidden by all of your rhetoric.

I am guessing that the layer of Marriott management which made the decision has miscalculated its impact on the hotel choices made by its most frequent customers and the reactions of its competitors (to keep lounge operations unchanged and welcome disgruntled Marriott customers). If Marriott's decision results in a substantial decrease in business that overshadows the savings from lowered and discontinued lounge services, then the results will either be to reverse the decision or make further reductions including the possibility of layoffs.

As to the sometimes lower prices on weekends, this has always been the case and as far as I can see does not reflect any closing of lounges. Further, while non-elite customers who would not have access to the lounge anyway, may benefit from the lower prices, elite customers are simply trading a benefit away.

As for me here today in downtown Indianapolis, I'm perfectly happy with the lounge, and the offerings are fine and largely unchanged. The Marriott staff is friendly and professional. Rooms on the concierge level include comped internet. This is Marriott as it should be. As to other folks in different circumstances, other decisions will be made, and some of those decisions certainly will reflect the benefits that continued to be offered by Starwood and Hilton, which Marriott has decided to downgrade or withdraw.