Thanks, this will change my strategy for United. The last two years I had Continental top status on a match. Now with Turkish Airlines I have gold on star through August of 2014. If I funnel 37.5k miles in the next two years, it's extended until 2016 Pretty nice for the lounge access and baggage alone.

However, without E+ being an option,,, I may have to put enough miles on united to keep that option alive.. at least same day with 25k. 50k may be a stretch, while re-qualifying for AA EXP