Lounges are only useful if you spend more than 15 minutes at the gate. I don't. I'm glad to hear another person has success getting F and international awards. It gives me hope for my miles. And I remember that I did succeed on a recent international redemption for a relative.
Back in the real world, flights are delayed for weather. I can understand how there can be fewer delays if you don't fly to New York, but come on. You are losing credibility when you say you only spend 15 minutes at the airport.