I've got no issue with PL elite status myself. I've got 180 paid nights this year, and have had 2 nights where i've booked thru PL. I was upgraded to a junior suite and had lounge access. I can see where it can become shady when you get a comped status and then get the elite recognition, but I think if you've earned it thru nights with marriott, then the occasional PL stay with elite recognition is a nice little thing.

BTW, to answer a previous posters question. Occasionlly, on PL stays you get room and point credit but it is rare. I saw it happen once to my parents, and the points were about 360 points on a $50 PL stay, so I'm assuming the hotel got $36 for that night.