I, too, was surprised to read Brian's story. However, I respectfully disagree with mnredfox concerning the usefulness of Diamond status. Perhaps I am misreading the inflection in the typing, but I find Diamond force a fabulous benefit. And will even more following my stay at the oceanfront Myrtle Beach Hampton Inn over the upcoming Easter weekend, in a room booked two weeks ago despite the property showing as sold out. Let's just hope I'm not put in a smoking room...