1) I can't speak to the OP's "sudden difficulty" in reward redemption since I haven't tried using any certificates for booking stays this summer (...doesn't sound like it is going to go smoothly.)

2) As for the devaluation of the IC welcome amenity I haven't experienced any changes for 2014 which sounds quite different from the other members posting on this thread. All good here except for when I book a stay for same day arrival. Then I get a random generic offering which I can sort of understand. I think it is important to note that the majority of my stays are in the West.

Anyone care to name properties/regions where they are getting subpar love on the amenity? Maybe we can find a commonality.

3) Regarding Kimpton being "stealth", I haven't been pleased with how InTouch handles and communicates program changes that fall under the devalue category. Subtle and unannounced rewording of benefits and T&C changes do not foster loyalty. I referred a colleague to InTouch recently and to give them the program overview I gave them the green InTouch pamphlet found in most rooms with the tear away temporary membership card inside. One of the ten Inner Circle benefits is the "Year end bonus reward tailored to you." Anyone receive that for 2013 or was that stealthily eliminated as well?