i do not have the same status but use both UAL and NWA most of the time--in fact, that is what I concentrate on right now for my trips and I think it is good to have TWO airlines like you do.

Yes, bring that NWA up to an award level you are happy with but one way to do it would be to get into the whole gift card thang (see other threads in here)... I mean, hey, you get 5k right then and there and you can even do more before Aug and not have to pay that fee...

welcome to FT either way!