First, welcome to flyertalk. I apologize for the first reply you got: a scolding for being unaware of some rules. Most FTs are actually quite helpful and try to offer useful answers.

As suggested the AA board may be more useful as you already know the AS rules etc.

Would you be flying enough to gain/retain significant status in both programs? If you get a match, you'd perhaps be able to keep both.

And good luck in TX. Never been to Lubbock, only HOU and SAT. Hope you won't get culture shock stemming from YVR. Love that city!