Thanks for the response, and the link. It looks like I missed it when I went back through the forums...

Judging my previous threads and information, it looks like the best route is going to be UA. To answer your questions you have for me DownUnderFlyer:

How many flights a year (on a *A): Probably 2-4 roundtrip.
Class: Unless I get some great deal or someone else is willing to pay for me: Cattle Class
Award Flights: They're tempting, but I'm most interested in complimentary upgrades and status (though, because I don't fly Star enough, I doubt any program will offer it to me - but, one never knows. I may start flying Star more...and if that's the case, I'll have my United account to rack up the miles and get some status)

Thanks again!