To answer a question from above, I did in fact make the 6pm flight as scheduled. They were able to herd a few PAX onto the 4pm and didn't have to bump anyone from the 6pm. Maybe next time. As for the option on the kiosk, wasn't expecting that it was new, just hadn't ever run into it in the 100 or so times I've used the kiosk.

As for the priority on the volunteer list, the Board Room lady that I talked to seemed pretty convinced it was prioritized just like standby, but I certainly could see where it would make sense to leave that utility to the pervue of the GA as they are on the front line and at times can make the most appropriate decision when it needs to be made. My hope though is that 'in any given situation, all things being equal" that they'd give Golds first right of refusal...;-)