But until they do, assume you're not going to be points/elite bennies & then be pleasantly surprised if you do.
When I hear end of 2011 I take it as end of 2011 - ie, December at the earliest. And even then maybe late December.
BTW - I agree w/ everyone; don't get me wrong.
But speaking only for myself - I wouldn't book a property expecting points/bennies until it was a set date in stone. If you want to stay in the property anyway, go for it. If not, look for other properties - or other chains. Why toss Marriott bizness if you're not getting the bennies.
Cheers.