Hi - Bruce #1 (original poster) here. To be sure it's clear (thought I did so in my post) I wasn't at all unhappy with my treatment, just making an interesting observation of the different replies received.

Yes, the lounge was open, and yes my thought was that it would not really cost the hotel anything (maybe a diet soda!) to allow my access. As a long time Platinum guest (and a guest many times at that specific hotel) I did think the request was not out of line - I wasn't asking for a free room

In any case, I was treated quite respectfully and properly both times...just sharing my story.

Bruce