Late to the party, but that's typical for me.



It was September 1998, and I was about to cross the CP 85K Executive Platinum threshold for the first time. I had picked up a $290 all in YVR-BOS return weekend websaver fare, and upgraded both ways. That flight would put me over the EXP threshold.

While waiting in the transborder lounge (now the Alaska Airlines lounge) I was surprised to be tracked down by a CP concierge (Monique) who introduced herself and the concierge program, noting that I would be EXP by the time I returned home. She listed all the benefits (including holding a plane for maybe 10 minutes if I was running late.) She also gave me business cards for the concierge service, and wrote in the direct YVR number (which I think was the concierge's mobile phone.)

No signs, no gift basket, no announcements. But then I was only crossing 85K for the first time. Still, a very treasured moment in my flying career.