Reading these long posts, I can't help but feel there was something else behind it all. That being said, going but what is written it sounds like a fairly unbelievable scenario and I understand frustration. Its all a bit absurd. Another poster also had similarly ridiculous encounters IIRC.

I guess I'm one of the lucky ones - I've never had any issues with my Cent. While I've been annoyed by some benefits going, new ones are also welcome. I travel a lot (both business and leisure) and have a significantly better experience because of the card. I like the random Amex gifts, regular upgrades and other such offers. My account manager is relatively efficient and a nice person. I know what to expect from CTS/concierge, where they excel and what their limitations are. I would absolutely recommend the card to people in a similar position to me. That doesn't mean I don't wish it had certain benefits - *A Gold, GHA Black, and SPG Plat