Starwood to be Purchased by Marriott

Darn. I heard the rumors that Starwood was for sale, but I was betting on a small chain like Hyatt or private equity to buy them. Starwood announced today that Marriott would be acquiring them. I don't like this for a few reasons. I'm two years away from lifetime platinum status and it's likely that this benefit won't continue. I also get Marriott status from their United partnership, so I will lose a back up program and there will be tons of extra elites fighting for upgrades and awards. Marriott's awards program isn't as generous and provides worse value than SPG. Ultimately I like my SPG program as it is and don't want it changed. If I wanted to be a Marriott elite member, I would be. 

Westin Hotel at Denver Airport