UA-NYC..You get the Gold Marriott Status to enjoy through Jan.31,2014..This program is to familiarize you with the Marriott Gold Status..Not to give you permanent status..Gold Status at Marriott is good throught Jan.31..i think some people got so excited by seeing the Gold Status they forgot to read All the terms and conditions..It is indeed free Gold Status through Jan.31..Enjoy it for a limited time!