As a 1K those fees are not charged anyway.

But in my former life - pre 1K, I never had the opportunity to speak with any of the reps you were lucky enough to get.

The couple times I had to pay the phone fee was due to building a complicated *A award itinerary (married segments, open jaw, multiple carriers), and frankly I felt like the phone rep deserved the $25 for their hard work.

Anyway, glad to hear of your successes.