That was then, this is now. Status expires and your privileges expire at the same time. You can still use your CHoice Benefits after you lose your status, but then again those were given to you with certain known limitations. (Availability and expiration dates). I fully expect Delta to tighten up as many things as possible in the future. Face it, FT members will never agree on everything. All depends upon how it affects YOU. Also, Delta fully admits that seat assignments are not guaranteed and subject to change.