Didn't another poster have the same thing happen to him or a friend? Maybe it was buying Plat--can't remember.

At any rate like Tommy Leo said--star gold means you can access any star alliance lounge even while traveling in economy. It just has to be an int'l itinerary that's all.

Considering if as many higher up elite members (like me) have left US, being gold might just be worth something these days, at least upgrade wise.