You da' man! thanks for all your help. I was 100% positive that using HP was the *only* way to get this done for a reasonable fare.

I have to be in MIA, but chose FLL because: 1) they have a P-Club and 2) they operate 753s to EWR (24FC seats, better EUA %). #2 was the overriding reason... but since I won't be enjoying a 753, perhaps I would fly MIA/RDU on AA and enjoy MRTC

My preference would be to go to ATL and pick-up a fare that costs a little more than RDU, but have access to a P-Club and real ammenities (i.e. Chili's in the CO/NW gate area). I've done the "RDU-connection" once and had a 2.5hr layover that SUCKED!!! there is NOTHING in that airport on the non-AA/JI side, can't speak for what's over there.

I am flying tomorrow using the CO "ATL hub." I have used RDU, ATL and FLL as "hubs", as they appear to break many of the stay/advance purchase requirements. Very similar to using LAS out West. I am flying to SAN and PHX later in the year via FLL.