Even without the 50K promo, I was persuaded to go with Hilton after receiving a complimentary upgrade to Gold when I called HHonors on my birthday. In my case though, I had been using priceline off an on for business and leisure travel. I now book through Hilton chain almost exclusively unless price is outrageous. Win win. I get the points, Hilton gets more $ per stay.

edited to add: Toolman. Any chance your son is a geology major? I got out in 1985 and was surprised to find that one of the managers in our New Orleans office who'd graduated in the late 50's also had Huffman. Wonder if he's still teaching?

[This message has been edited by Soonerman (edited 05-30-2002).]