Although this would still be a pretty bad redemption. If one wanted to use their UR points for hotels, the better option would be to redeem it through UR due to the 25% discount, rather than redeeming for cash.

I think applying for 2 AA cards with the 2 browser trick, bringing in 100k AA miles per person might be a better card to apply for depending on location & destination. It would be a better risk to take than with Chase since many of us have successfully applied for 2 Citi cards during the 75k promo. Even applying for a BA card seems logical in your situation due to the recent changes in redemption for short haul fights within North America (Although one should wait for a better promo).

Also... Why "pack of gum"??