Thank you all for your replies. The status is worth it for me since I usually do about 60,000 miles a year but I had to split 2012 between Air Canada and Delta. However, since I am based out of Toronto, I would like to keep my Air Canada status. 35k status at minimum gives me lounge access which will be useful during delays.

I will be calling Air Canada today, and if necessary do YYZ-LGA using my miles for one way. Thank you WhiteYUL/Margarita Girl for your route advice.

I'll keep you all posted on how it goes

Sharan