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Welcome to the 20th Annual Freddie Awards

[music starts]
[music builds]
[hearts pound]

Let the festivities begin!

Welcome to the Freddie Awards!

We're at the Wyndham Phoenix in beautiful downtown Phoenix, Arizona, where almost 400 people have gathered to celebrate all things Freddie.

For the the 20th year, frequent travelers around the world voted for their favorite airline, hotel and credit card loyalty programs. We tabulated the votes, and tonight, the winners will be recognized with a prestigious Freddie Award.

Sit back, relax and enjoy your virtual Freddie Award visit. We're glad you've decided to join us!

Randy Takes the Stage

It's almost time for the ceremony to begin and Randy Petersen takes the stage to let everyone know that the festivities will begin in a mere five minutes. Randy says, "If you drank too much wine, too much water or too much beer... you might want to take a break before we start."

He's here... and now he's gone.

Karen Takes the Stage

Karen Heldt of InsideFlyer, (a.k.a. Freddie Goddess), takes the stage to welcome everyone to the 20th Annual Freddie Awards.

Welcome to the Freddie Awards everyone!

Back in 1998, Randy was commonly asked, what's the best program out there? What program should I join. Randy, being very diplomatic, often said that the answers he gave were based on his valuation of the programs. So he decided to ask the readers of InsideFlyer magazine what they think. Who does have the best program out there? He received 864 responses from readers who evaluated the programs.

After tallying up the winners, he traveled to the winning programs and presented them with the awards.

Fast forward 20 years, and the Freddie Awards has grown to what it is today. We are all here today to honor the best programs in the industry.

She says thanks to the sponsors for the evening: Points.com, Awards For Mortgage And Real Estate, Priority Pass, Executive Travel SkyGuide from American Express, Affinion, ICLP and Loylogic.

Without the support of our sponsors, all of this would not be possible. Thanks once again for your generous support.

Tonight's cocktail reception was sponsored Wyndham.

Attendees to the Award Ceremony are enjoying dinner through a sponsorship from Visa and the wine is sponsored by Synapse. The after party is sponsored by American Express Membership Rewards.

And now, a commercial from our sponsor Visa.

A Word from Our Sponsor

Kirk Stuart Team Lead/VP, Co-branding Visa comes on stage after everyone receives the much-welcomed commercial break. Life takes faster money, life takes Visa.

Randy told Kirk he could talk no more than half and hour (he's kidding). "Just want to take the opportunity to tell you how proud we are to be part of this evening."

He also congratulates tonight's winners.

We're very grateful to Visa for sponsoring the wonderful meal for the Freddie attendees. Thanks Visa!

Keeping Track and It's All About the Numbers

Karen tells everyone in the audience about the "scorecards" that have been placed at their tables - everyone can keep their own play-by-play list of the winners and near winners. You can take notes and keep track of the winners. You will all be receiving a copy of InsideFlyer magazine after the ceremony that lists all the winners - our biggest issue yet.

And Karen tells us a little about Freddie numbers.

629,022 - the number of frequent travelers who voted for the Freddies this year and left over 8,000 comments. And when Marriott sent out an e-mail blast to ask members to vote, 78,000 members voted in one day. Thanks to everyone for getting the vote out. Your customers are very eager to let us know which programs are the best.

365 - number of attendees to this year's event.

2 - the number of programs that will become first-time Freddie winners. Tonight could be your night, you could be lucky. And those two programs are...oh, silly me - can't tell you that!

25 - number of trophies that will change hands tonight. The crowd rumbles in response.

I found one reader comment I'd like to share with you. One reader wrote "my perception of your program is only as good as my last experience of your program." I can't thank Wyndham enough for exceeding my expectations to make this event a success.

Without further ado, Karen introduces the man of the hour, the reason we're all gathered here - the creator of the Freddie Awards - Mr. Randy Petersen.

Randy Returns

Our emcee for the evening, and America's frequent flyer guru, Randy Petersen once again takes the stage.

And he's wearing, get this - tails! It's a black tie event after all. He tells everyone that he'll be with us for a solid three hours (he's not kidding).

He takes everyone on the long and winding road of the Freddies - 20 years through music and photos on the two screens that flank the stage. So many Freddies, so many programs and people. And throughout the years, Randy still looks the same!

The crowd loves it.

Randy says, "20 years can change a lot but also shows how 20 years can melt away."

Randy thanks the staff - Mikel, Tim, Darcie, Norbert, Jamie, Karen, Janet, Denise.

And Randy reminds everyone of the wonderful legacy of Freddie Laker who passed away in 2006. "Freddie, we miss you." Freddie Laker is the Freddie's namesake.

Karen interupts Randy - Blackberry wants to give something away - yep, you guessed it - a Blackberry! He draws and .... Mark D wins. Lucky Mark! Congratulations! Mark said he was using his Blackberry at that very moment to text his wife good night.

Randy welcomes Rob Friedman, the new President - AAdvantage Marketing
Programs, American Airlines, to the ceremony.

And "My lovely wife, Julie."

And so the evening truly begins.

Industry Impact Award :: Continental OnePass

This award goes to Continental OnePass for its Social Media Leadership. I'd like to recognize Continental OnePass for the program's ongoing efforts to extend its social media initiatives beyond the online environment. By inviting members of online communities to participate in live events hosted by OnePass, the program has successfully been able to gain feedback, share information with members, and expertly build loyalty. With up to 500 members at each event, these online travel community extensions represent a Best Practices example of how to participate in members' conversations.

Scott O’Leary, Managing Director, Customer Experience, accepts the Freddie Award.

Scott says, "I'd like to dedicate to this to all our FlyerTalkers! Thanks for making Continental a better airline."

Industry Impact Award :: Northwest WorldPerks

This special award is being given to Northwest WorldPerks in recognition of the program's outstanding efforts to educate its members through WorldPerks University, a creative solution that provides valuable knowledge and insight to help members make the most of their WorldPerks benefits.

Bob Soukup accepts the Freddie Award and recognizes Phil Lies for his work and development of WorldPerks University.

Industry Impact Award :: Lufthansa (and Partners) Miles & More

With the introduction of award redemption options that allow members to redeem miles for surcharges, fees and taxes, Lufthansa Miles & More has distinguished itself as an industry leader. In recent years these fees have begun to diminish the allure and value of a loyalty reward. Miles & More has set a new standard that has the potential to benefit members of all programs.

Lufthansa, accepts the Freddie Award. "I'm pretty much surprised. We started this feature yesterday. I convinced our board and I will tell them with this award, that we made the right decision.

Industry Impact - Rising Star Award: Virgin Blue Velocity

"Every few years I look for programs that become buzz worthy," says Randy. Like in 1999 when he singled out Alaska Airlines as a Rising Star.

He also gave a Rising Star award to Hilton HHonors and look where that program is today.

Virgin Blue Velocity has been singled out as the industry's Rising Star for this Freddie Awards. Virgin Blue won a Freddie last year for Best Award Redemption - they've created quite the buzz through their no capacity controls.

Magali Olive from Virgin Atlantic accepts the Freddie on behalf of Virgin Blue.

"Thank you very much and Virgin Blue thanks Randy." They must be doing something right! Congrats Virgin Blue. Randy is watching you!

Industry Impact Award :: SAS EuroBonus

Randy talks about the transparency of awards - and wants to give this award to --- SAS. "Oh my god!" comes from the audience.

With the introduction of the Award Seat Prognosis feature, EuroBonus has distinguished itself as an industry leader. By identifying and transparently displaying available award seats to all members, EuroBonus has tackled head on one of the industry's most daunting challenges, and in the process has established a new standard for member expectations.

Iris Palmgren, Director EuroBonus Program Development, accepts the Freddie Award with a hug.

"This is really great - what a great idea we had! Our revenue management thought we were crazy," says Iris. Congrats Iris and EuroBonus! You were right!

Industry Impact Award :: Qantas Frequent Flyer

With the introduction of award redemption options that allow members to redeem extra miles for surcharges, fees and taxes, Qantas Frequent Flyer has distinguished itself as an industry leader. In recent years, these add-on fees have begun to diminish the allure and value of a loyalty reward. I'm seeing more and more concern from members who have earned a free award, but have to pay high fees to redeem. Frequent Flyer has set a new standard that has the potential to benefit members of all programs.

Randy accepts the Freddie Award on behalf of Qantas. Congratulations!

Our First Voter-Generated Freddie Award of the Evening

Randy recaps the 19th Annual Freddie Awards and the surprise winners last year.

Who will win the Freddies this year? Let's see what some of you have to say. Randy plays of video of audience participants saying who they think will win.

Now that the editors have had their say, Randy moves on to the rest of the Freddie Awards, beginning with Best Elite Level.

And the winner goes to... but wait! What's this? What am I seeing on the screen there? There are a couple of 25th anniversaries to commemorate?

I'd like to wish a Happy 25th Anniversary to the hotel loyalty programs. Holiday Inn Priority Club and Marriott Hotels Honored Guest Awards were the first hotel loyalty programs and congratulations - we've got birthday cake and a special Freddie award for each of you.

Frequent Guest Program :: Best Elite-Level Program [Americas] :: InterContinental Hotels Group Priority Club Rewards

IHG Priority Club Rewards wins this category for the first time.

Don Berg, Vice President Loyalty Programs, comes up to accept the award.

Marriott Rewards won the last two years and for the first six Freddies in this category, but came in at number two this year, followed by Starwood Preferred Guest at number three. Starwood came in at number two last year and is a six-time winner in this category.

Frequent Flyer Program :: Best Elite-Level Program [Americas] :: Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan

The crowd goes wild!

Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan wins for the third year in a row. Elite-level members appreciate the upgrades, waived fees, priority treatment at the airport and the variety of partners they can fly to earn elite status.

Northwest WorldPerks shot up to second place from its eighth-place finish last year and everyone there should be proud of their accomplishment.

Continental Airlines OnePass used to own this category but has fallen from grace with their members. Frontier Airlines EarlyReturns is third, up from a fourth-place finish last year.

Rick Rasmussen accepts the Freddie Award along with two customer care MVP Gold Desk representatives from Phoenix, Cheri Starkey and Margie Mannies. "They'll be taking this Freddie back to the Gold Desk where it belongs," says Rick.

Frequent Guest Program :: Best Elite-Level Program [Europe, Middle East, Africa] :: Starwood Preferred Guest

And the Freddie Award goes to...Starwood Preferred Guest takes the Freddie home for the second year in a row in this category.

"Thank you so much. This is one of our favorite awards - it really means a lot to us to win this award."

SPG elite-level members benefit from elite bonus points, personalized concierge service, room and floor upgrades and 4pm late checkout. Marriott Rewards is number two with IHG Priority Club Rewards coming in third.

Frequent Flyer Program :: Best Elite-Level Program [Europe, Middle East, Africa] :: Qatar Airways Privilege Club

Qatar Airways Privilege Club wins for the second time in this category. Elite members in Privilege Club at the higher levels have unlimited lounge access along with other benefits such as being able to share their good fortune as an elite member with family members who can earn miles based on their elite level.

Etihad Guest moved up from fifth to second place while Gulf Air Frequent flyer moved down from number two last year to number three this year.

Randy accepts the award in Qatar's honor. "They're probably watching the Web cast."

Frequent Guest Program :: Best Elite-Level Program [Japan, Pacific, Asia, Australia] :: Starwood Preferred Guest

The top two in this category mirror the top two for the Europe, Middle East, Africa region with Starwood Preferred Guest continuing its dominance for Best Elite-Level Program outside the Americas.

"This one is special to us and we want to thank all of our members who voted for us - we really appreciate it."

Elite bonus points and a lower minimum threshold when converting points to frequent flyer miles are two of the perks that come with a Preferred Guest elite membership. Last year's number two and three programs finished the same this year with Marriott Rewards second followed by former winner in this category, Hyatt Gold Passport.

Frequent Flyer Program :: Best Elite-Level Program [Japan, Pacific, Asia, Australia] :: Jet Airways JetPrivilege

JetPrivilege will take home its first ever Freddie in this category. Elite members get upgrades, additional baggage allowance and free airport lounge visits among other perks.

Former winner Qatar Airways Privilege Club came in at second while Cathay
Pacific Asia Miles came in at third.

Gary McNutt accepts the Freddie Award.

Frequent Guest Program :: Best Web Site [Japan, Pacific, Asia, Australia] :: Marriott Rewards

There's no doubt that Web sites are very important to a program. Starwood and Marriott are the top contenders and the winner goes to...Marriott Rewards.

Marriott Rewards wins for the second year in a row for its ability to reach out to members in Asia/Pacific. Dedicated Web sites are available for members residing in Australia, China, Japan, New Zealand and South Korea.

Michael Katz, Manager, Email Marketing, accepts the awards and says, "on behalf of Marriott, thank you very much everybody!"

Coming in at second place again this year is last year's number two Web site winner, Starwood Preferred Guest. Former winner, Hyatt Gold Passport is in the number three position for the second year in a row.

Frequent Flyer Program :: Best Web Site [Japan, Pacific, Asia, Australia] :: Jet Airways JetPrivilege

Jet Airways JetPrivilege takes the Freddie from two-time winner Qatar Airways Privilege Club in this category. JetPrivilege members can access their mileage account online and see promotions and offers at a glance.

Cathay Pacific Asia Miles comes in at number two, up from number seven last year while Etihad Guest comes in at number three.

Gary McNutt accepts the Freddie Award.

Randy says, "You know the drill."

"Again, thank you very much and I think I can get used to coming up here tonight," says Gary.

Frequent Guest Program :: Best Web Site [Europe, Middle East, Africa] :: Starwood Preferred Guest

Top two finishers...Starwood vs. Marriott. And the winner is...

Starwood Preferred Guest. Starwood is a second-time winner in this category, taking first place from two-time winner Marriott Rewards. The Starwood Web site can be accessed in English, French, Spanish, German, Japanese, Chinese and Italian and has one of the most user-friendly ways to access hotel promotions.

"I'm usually the guy hiding behind the curtain. Thanks to everyone who made this possible, especially our very passionate members."

Marriott Rewards comes in at number two with IHG Priority Club Rewards moving up to number three from four last year.

Frequent Flyer Program :: Best Web Site [Europe, Middle East, Africa] :: Etihad Guest

This is the second Freddie Award win for Etihad Guest in this category. The Web site features a "slider" tool that allows members to design their own cash plus miles awards (you can redeem an award with as little as one mile), as well as many of the features frequent flyers expect from an award-winning Web site.

Coming in at second place for the second year in a row is Qatar Airways Privilege Club. And to mirror last year's top three, Gulf Air Frequent flyer comes in at number three.

"It's a Marriott/Starwood thing happening tonight," says Randy.

Barry Green accepts the Freddie Award. "Thank you to everyone who voted for us and this is for the Etihad team."

Frequent Guest Program :: Best Web Site [Americas] :: InterContinental Hotels Group Priority Club Rewards

The IHG Priority Club Rewards Web site wins its fourth Freddie in this category. Priority Club Rewards offers its Web site in nine different languages and members can bid in a popular online award auction. When describing the Web site, members use words such as "reliable" and "user-friendly" and like its easy navigation and point redemption capabilities.

Lincoln Barrett, Vice President, Global Consumer & CRM, comes up to accept the award.

A former winner in this category, Marriott Rewards, comes in at number two. Last year's number two Web site came in at third, Choice Hotels Choice Privileges.

Frequent Flyer Program :: Best Web Site [Americas] :: Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan

This is the fifth win for Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan in this category. The Mileage Plan Web site wins with good, clean design, ease of use and improving functionality such as the ability to redeem some airline partner awards online and to see if award seats are available at a glance.

Former winner in this category with an extremely close-to-winning finish at only 0.002 separating it from winner Mileage Plan is Southwest. Midwest has moved a step up in this category from its fourth place finish last year to finish third.

"These two programs seem to be duking it out the last couple of years," says Randy.

Missy Darling accepts the Freddie Award. "This is going to be sitting on my desk all week. We really do have a lot of great travelers who travel with us."

Frequent Guest Program :: Best Member Communications [Japan, Pacific, Asia, Australia] :: Marriott Rewards

Top two finishers...let's see who that might be. Hyatt and Marriott, and the Freddie goes to Marriott. The crowd cheers.

Marriott Rewards is a repeat Freddie winner in this category after having won the Freddie for this area of the world last year. Membership in Marriott Rewards in the Asia/Pacific region continues to grow and Marriott is doing well keeping in touch with the new members.

"Thank you to all of our travelers and to the members of our communications team."

Hyatt Gold Passport moves up from last year's third place finish to second and Starwood Preferred Guest traded places with Hyatt to come in third this year.

Frequent Flyer Program :: Best Member Communications [Japan, Pacific, Asia, Australia] :: Korean Air SKYPASS

This is a first Freddie win for Korean Air SKYPASS in any category moving up from its second place finish last year.

Jet Airways JetPrivilege is number two, up from number four last year and newcomer Kingfisher Airlines King Club comes in just behind at number three and getting buzz in the industry.

Korean Air accepts the award. "On behalf of the all the Korean Airlines customers and employees, we thank you."

Frequent Guest Program :: Best Member Communications [Europe, Middle East, Africa] :: Marriott Rewards

I know the winner and you don't - but you're about to find out.

Marriott Rewards was the definite winner here as members made a clear statement of the program's ability to communicate and over 38% of the votes cast went to Marriott.

Randy says, "you again - you're going to get a reputation of being a screamer, you know."

No program has yet to repeat a win, including last year's winner, Radisson goldpoints plus. Moving up one spot from last year is Starwood Preferred Guest at number two. Also moving up one spot is IHG Priority Club Rewards at number three.

Frequent Flyer Program :: Best Member Communications [Europe, Middle East, Africa] :: Gulf Air Frequent flyer

This is the first win in this category for Gulf Air Frequent flyer after coming in at number three last year. Frequent flyer members are pleased with the communication they get from Gulf Air such as the quarterly newsletter and emails and feel valued as customers.

Qatar Airways Privilege Club, last year's winner, comes in at number two this year while last year's number two, Etihad Guest, comes in at third.

Randy accepts the Freddie on behalf of Gulf Air Frequent flyer.

Frequent Guest Program :: Best Member Communications [Americas] :: Marriott Rewards

Marriott Rewards rides to the top in this category for the 10th time, ending IHG Priority Club Rewards' four-year reign.

I'm not going to repeat what I said before - you are very communicative.

"Thank you for the repeat in the communications department. We made big changes this year in personalizing our program communications to members - thank you very much."

Priority Club Rewards comes in second this year and Choice Hotels Choice Privileges is third, down from second last year after moving up from its fourth place finish the year before

Frequent Flyer Program :: Best Member Communications [Americas] :: Southwest Rapid Rewards

This is Southwest's first win in this category. The program has flirted with the top spot in this category for several years, coming in at number two since 2003 until the program slipped to number three in votes last year behind Alaska Mileage Plan and Frontier EarlyReturns.

Alaska Mileage Plan, last year's winner, comes in at number two. This year sees
AirTran A+ Rewards at a respectable number three spot - the program's best finish to date in this category.

Ryan Green accepts the Freddie Award. "First of all I'd like to thank our members and customers and I accept this on behalf of all the Southwest employees who deliver on the promises we make."

World Famous "Pudding Guy" Takes the Stage

One of the most famous bonus promotions was the Healthy Choice pudding promotion. Randy plays a clip of Adam Sandler collecting pudding at the grocery store in the movie Punch Drunk Love.

He's an urban legend with a "true" status on snopes.com and has his own page on Wikipedia. He's known by millions as the "Pudding Guy." Ladies and gentleman, please welcome David Phillips as he takes the Freddie stage!

Everyone loves getting bonus miles and there's no one better to get the Freddie crowd in the mood to hear the winners of this year's Best Bonus Freddie Awards.

David says, "Thanks Randy, it's great to be here. Basically I'm just a guy who loves to travel. I encourage all of you to make this business fun and put the joy back in travel."

Frequent Guest Program :: Best Bonus Promotion [Japan, Pacific, Asia, Australia] :: Hyatt Hotels Gold Passport

Members appreciate seeing favorite bonus offers returning year after year - in this case, Hyatt's recurring Faster Free Nights promotion received enough points to give Hyatt a Freddie Award and to unseat two-time winner Starwood Preferred Guest.

Jeff Zidell, Vice President, Hyatt Gold Passport, goes up on stage and accepts the honor.

IHG Priority Club Rewards is at number two with their quadruple bonus points promotion and Marriott Rewards rounds out the top three.

Frequent Flyer Program :: Best Bonus Promotion [Japan, Pacific, Asia, Australia] :: Jet Airways JetPrivilege

JetPrivilege wins for a second time in this category, this time with their offer of triple bonus miles on all Jet Airways domestic and international flights from Jan. 1 through June 30, 2007. That's a very generous bonus with a long time in which to take advantage of the offer - and their members did not forget this when it came time to cast their Freddie ballots.

Coming in at a very respectable number two is Kingfisher Airlines King Club, a program that launched in February 2006. Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer racked up enough votes and a high enough Value Vote to place them at number three.

Gary McNutt once again takes the stage and poses with the Pudding Guy - that's one for the walls.

Frequent Guest Program :: Best Bonus Promotion [Europe, Middle East, Africa] :: Marriott Rewards

Why don't you announce this one, David. And the award goes to...Marriott!

Marriott Rewards returns to the top in this category for a second year in a row, winning again with its MegaBonus where members could earn up to 35,000 bonus points.

Starwood Preferred Guest received enough votes for its bonus promotion - the offer of triple Starpoints on all stays across all Starwood hotel brands. Coming in at number three is IHG Priority Club Rewards, last year's number four finisher.

Frequent Flyer Program :: Best Bonus Promotion [Europe, Middle East, Africa] :: El Al Israel Airlines Matmid Club

This is the first win ever for Israel's El Al Matmid Club. Congratulations! The bonus promotion that brought them to the top was 20 percent more Matmid points when transferring from the program's affinity credit card points to Matmid points during the months of May and September for Israeli credit cards and during the months of April and November for foreign credit cards.

Brussels Airlines Privilege is in second place and at third place is Qatar
Airways Privilege Club.

Gracie Ninger, Supervisor, El Al Frequent Flyer Clubs, USA and Mexico, accepts the Freddie Award and Gracie has a photo taken with the Pudding Guy. "I'd like to say thank you very much. Our members were really happy with the offer and we try very hard to listen to our members. Thank you very much."

Frequent Guest Program :: Best Bonus Promotion [Americas] :: InterContinental Hotels Group Priority Club Rewards

Let's see what the Americans are thinking about best bonuses.

IHG Priority Club Rewards is no stranger to the top of this category - this is their fifth consecutive win. This year they won with their offer of triple points or triple miles on every stay worldwide, starting with a second stay.

David hands the award to Amy Ceriani Nelson, Director, Priority Club Rewards.

Amy says it is a big surprise to receive the award from the famous Pudding Guy. We are pleased to know our members appreciate our bonus promotions.

Marriott, a six-time winner in this category, placed second with their popular MegaBonus promotion where members could earn up to 35,000 bonus points for stays at over 2,700 properties during the promotional period. Choice Privileges fell from second to third with their stay two times, earn a free night promotion.

Frequent Flyer Program :: Best Bonus Promotion [Americas] :: Delta SkyMiles

SkyMiles has a repeat triumph in this category but the last time the program won was in 1994. The bonus offer that took them to the top this year, all the way from number nine last year, is the innovative threshold partner promotion where members could earn up to 25,000 bonus miles by earning miles with participating SkyMiles partners.

Northwest WorldPerks, although not the winner in this category, came very
close with just .048 separating the top two finishers. Continental OnePass, also extremely close to the winner with its value vote of only 0.045 less, has every right to feel victorious as well with their third place finish compared to last year's virtual no-show in this category.

Jeff Robertson, Managing Director, accepts the Freddie Award for Delta SkyMiles. After his photo op with Pudding Guy, Jeff smiles and leaves the stage.

And a farewell to the Pudding Guy. "Great guy," says Randy.

Best Affinity Credit Card [Japan, Pacific, Asia, Australia] :: Jet Airways JetPrivilege Citibank Credit Card

Last year's second place winner in this category comes in at number one this year - the JetPrivilege Citbank credit card. Card members can earn double JPMiles when using the card to purchase Jet Airways tickets, receive complimentary airport lounge access, flight upgrades and more, depending on the type of card you hold.

Last year's winner, Thai Airways Royal Orchid Plus American Express, is not to be seen on the Freddie list this year. Former Freddie winner in this category, American Express Membership Rewards, comes in at number three for the second year in a row, while another co-branded American Express card, this time with Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer, comes in second.

Gary McNutt accepts the Freddie Award. "Well, I told you I wouldn't get bored coming up here night," and he thanks Visa.

Best Affinity Credit Card [Europe, Middle East, Africa] :: Lufthansa (and Partners) Miles & More Visa/MasterCard

Miles & More takes home its second consecutive Freddie in this category. The card is popular with members for not only the extra mileage earning possibilities, but also because it offers a convenient way to keep your miles from expiring.

TAP Portugal Victoria's Visa is number two, up from number eight last year and the Brussels Airlines American Express makes its debut near the top at number three.

Lufthansa is very aggressive in the credit card market and has really kicked it up a notch. Thomas Gesing accepts the Freddie Award and says, "Thank you very much. I was standing here last year and I'm very glad to be getting it again."

Best Affinity Credit Card [Americas] :: Starwood Preferred Guest American Express

For the second year in a row, Starwood Preferred Guest American Express takes home the Freddie for Best Affinity Credit Card. The card wins with its favorable conversions to most frequent flyer miles, fee-free card the first year and the no-capacity controls award redemption.

The top three credit cards mirror the top three last year with American Express Membership Rewards, a five-time winner, coming in at number two with its behemoth award program and the three-time winner Marriott Rewards Visa, finishing in the number three spot.

Before the award is presented: "Looks like American Express can't lose this one," says Randy.

Starwood accepts the award. "We'd like to thank our tremendous partner and most especially our cardmembers."

Frequent Guest Program :: Best Award [Japan, Pacific, Asia, Australia] :: Marriott Rewards

We've got four more programs to go here, so stay with me. We seen this before - Starwood and Marriott in the top two places. And let's see who's going to take this award home.

Marriott Rewards finds itself at the top position with its seven free nights and 1:1 points to miles conversion travel award package with a clean sweep in all geographical ballots for Best Award.

Ed French SVP, Marriott Rewards/CRM accepts the award on behalf of Marriott.

Starwood Preferred Guest is at number two with the same award that garnered the program number two in the Europe, Middle East, Africa region this year. Hyatt Gold Passport takes the number three spot with its Gold Passport Exclusives online auction program.

Frequent Flyer Program :: Best Award [Japan, Pacific, Asia, Australia] :: Jet Airways JetPrivilege

Two-time winner Emirates Skywards sees JetPrivilege overtake its position at the top in this category. JetPrivilege was in second place during the last two Freddie Awards and wins this year with its award sale between India and North America. Platinum and Gold members could get an award ticket at a 50 percent discount and Silver, Blue Plus or Blue members could get an award ticket at a 25 percent discount between Sept. 15 and Nov. 30, 2007.

Two airlines new to the top three in this category are Gulf Air Frequent flyer and Etihad Guest, finishing second and third respectively.

Gary McNutt, Vice President Corporate Sales, accepts the Freddie Award once again.

Randy says, "Are you tired of coming up here?" We think not.

Frequent Guest Program :: Best Award [Europe, Middle East, Africa] :: Marriott Rewards

This is the third year in a row that Marriott Rewards has taken home the Freddie for this category. The program won with the same travel award packages offer in the Americas region this year. The program also placed third with its elite members only offer of 25 percent off the normal points needed to redeem for gift cards.

Congratulations to Marriott Rewards. Ed French, SVP, Marriott Rewards/CRM comes up again to receive the award.

Coming in at number two is last year's number three finisher and former winner in this category, Starwood Preferred Guest, with their Cash + Points free night award offer.

Frequent Flyer Program:: Best Award [Europe, Middle East, Africa] :: Qatar Airways Privilege Club

This is the fourth year that this Freddie category has been awarded and this is the first time that Qatar Airways Privilege Club will take home the Freddie in this category - edging out the second place program by only a .003 difference in the Value Vote. The award offer that took them to the top was roundtrip coach awards at a 50 percent discount between Doha and nine Middle Eastern cities between Sept. 10 and Oct. 15, 2007.

Gulf Air Frequent flyer and Eithad Guest came in at second and third.

Randy accepts the Freddie Award on Qatar Airways' behalf.

Frequent Guest Program :: Best Award [Americas] :: Marriott Rewards

I have no idea who won this one, let's take a look and find out. And the winner is Marriott Rewards.

This is the ninth win for Marriott Rewards for Best Award but the program hasn't won this category since the 13th Annual Freddie Awards. The offer that took them to the top this year was an award package where members could get seven nights at a hotel and 1:1 Marriott Rewards points to airline miles transfers (savings of up to 50 percent).

In sports this is called a three-peat, says Randy. Ed French takes the stage again and says, "We always knew this was a special award for our members. Thank you very much."

Marriott Rewards also finished at number three with their elite-member offer of 25 percent off gift cards. Two-time winner IHG Priority Club Rewards comes in at number two for the second year in a row with their excellent award offer of 5,000 miles for a free night's stay, while four-time winner Hilton dropped to number six.

Frequent Flyer Program :: Best Award [Americas] :: Southwest Rapid Rewards

This is Southwest Airline's third win in this category and Rapid Rewards is the clear winner this year with the program's popular Fly 2, Get 1 Free flight offer.

Coming in at number two is Midwest Miles. Frontier EarlyReturns, last year's winner in this category, placed third this year.

"I'm really rooting for Southwest because they put a lot into this promotion, I'm trying to figure this 'aloha' thing lately, but it seems like the aloha went bye-bye and you might have some trouble with this one," says Randy.

Ryan Green, Director Customer Loyalty, Southwest Airlines accepts the Freddie Award. "Randy says, you got put into a situation, but you did a great job marketing."

"Thank you for pointing that all out. It was a great promotion and thankfully there are 63 other destinations they can choose from," says Ryan in true Southwest style.

Frequent Guest Program :: Best Award Redemption [Japan, Pacific, Asia, Australia] :: Starwood Preferred Guest

This is the category where members always get even with the programs.

Congratulations goes to Starwood Preferred Guest. Starwood wins again in this category, followed by Marriott Rewards in second and Hyatt Gold Passport in third, mirroring the top three last year.

"I'd like to thank our members once again, we really appreciate it. Thanks everyone."

Starwood has dominated this category with the program's no blackout dates or availability restrictions on free award nights.

Frequent Flyer Program :: Best Award Redemption [Japan, Pacific, Asia, Australia] :: Virgin Blue Velocity

Virgin Blue Velocity wins its third consecutive Freddie in this category. As the program's Web site reads, "You can use your Velocity Points to redeem on any flight operated by Virgin Blue, Pacific Blue or Polynesian Blue - any seat, any time. After all, points are pointless if you can't go where you want, when you want."

Nipping at Virgin Blue's heels in the number two spot is Jet Airways JetPrivilege, up from fourth place last year, and from second to third is Qatar Airways Privilege Club.

Magali Olive accepts the award on behalf of Virgin Blue. "Once again, on behalf of Philip, thank you very much - for this award. Randy, please deliver this to him."

Frequent Guest Program :: Best Award Redemption [Europe, Middle East, Africa] :: Starwood Preferred Guest

Let's keep moving this along. And the Freddie goes to...Starwood Preferred Guest continues its dominance of the Award Redemption category with this year's win in Europe, Middle East, Africa. Starwood is the sole winner of this category since the awards inception in the 17th Annual Freddie Awards.

A familiar face up here, says Randy, when Gretchen Kloke walks up on stage to receive the award. "Thank you so much for this award. This is our fourth consecutive win in this category."

Marriott Rewards is second and IHG Priority Club Rewards moved up from fourth last year to third this year.

Frequent Flyer Program :: Best Award Redemption [Europe, Middle East, Africa] :: Etihad Airways Etihad Guest

It looks like Etihad Guest members are starting to find out what it's like to redeem awards in the program and are pleased by their experiences. Etihad Guest takes the Freddie home in this category for the first time by offering the most flexible award redemptions in the industry.

Last year's winner, Qatar Airways Privilege Club, dropped to number three with former winner Gulf Air Frequent flyer staying in second place.

Sharada Iyer accepts the Freddie Award.

Frequent Guest Program :: Best Award Redemption [Americas] :: InterContinental Hotels Group Priority Club Rewards

With a .037 margin, IHG Priority Club Rewards has ended Starwood Preferred Guest's winning streak in this category. Priority Club has been following close behind Starwood for a few years now but this is the first time the Value Vote has brought it to the top.

You've got to be proud of this one - congratulations! Amy Ceriani Nelson, Director, Priority Club Rewards, accepts the award from Randy.

Priority Club members are offered the flexibility of points that don't expire and they can even redeem stays for any hotel, anywhere - including rival hotels with the American Express branded pre-paid lodging card redemption option. Marriott once again came in at number three.

Frequent Flyer Program :: Best Award Redemption [Americas] :: Southwest Rapid Rewards

This award category was introduced in 1998 and no other frequent flyer program has ever won - Rapid Rewards tops this all-important category for a 10th consecutive year. Over and over, we've heard from members that they like the simplicity and ease of getting a free ticket. When a member earns 16 credits (eight roundtrips), a free flight is waiting for them in their account.

Alaska Airlines comes in at number two for the second year in a row. Mileage Plan regularly makes an appearance at number two or three but can't quite get the momentum up to conquer Southwest. Continental OnePass made an impressive move from number five last year to number three this year - not bad for a program with over 35 million members searching for award seats - and a big Freddie winner.

"On behalf of our employees I accept this Freddie."

"Southwest has always won this category - with Alaska nipping at their heels," says Randy.

Frequent Guest Program :: Best Customer Service [Japan, Pacific, Asia, Australia] :: Starwood Preferred Guest

We're going to move on to Best Customer Service. Starwood Preferred Guest and Marriott Rewards find their programs in first and second place. Who could the winner be...congratulations go to Starwood Preferred Guest.

The Starwood Lurker, William Sanders, goes up on stage and receives a round of applause. "We appreciate that folks recognize we go the extra mile when things don't work out."

This is the fourth Freddie for Starwood Preferred Guest in this four-year-old category. Hyatt Gold Passport is third again in this category, with the top three mirroring the top three last year.

Frequent Flyer Program :: Best Customer Service [Japan, Pacific, Asia, Australia] :: Jet Airways JetPrivilege

JetPrivilege wins this year after placing a close second to winner Qatar Airways Privilege Club last year. This is the second Freddie for JetPrivilege in this category.

Members appreciate the quick response from customer service and we often hear how much they truly enjoy flying Jet Airways. Korean Air SKYPASS is number two, up from number three last year, followed by newcomer Kingfisher Airlines King Club.

Gary McNutt accepts the Freddie Award. He certainly knows his way to the stage. It was a great value vote for this award - nine out of 10.

Frequent Guest Program :: Best Customer Service [Europe, Middle East, Africa] :: Starwood Preferred Guest

Someone get on their walking shoes. This year the award goes to...Starwood!

Starwood Preferred Guest edged out Marriott Rewards to win this category last year with an extremely close Value Vote (a .002 difference), but this year Starwood wins again with a wider margin.

Shangri-La Hotels Golden Circle moved up from fifth place to third.

Frequent Flyer Program :: Best Customer Service [Europe, Middle East, Africa] :: Etihad Airways Etihad Guest

First time winner in this category, Etihad Guest, easily wins with a .402 Value Vote margin (quite a big margin in the Freddies - 9.336 vs. 8.934) over last year's winner, Qatar Airways Privilege Club.

Coming in at number three, from its second place last year, is Gulf Air Frequent flyer. Once again, Middle East airlines dominate.

"The top two - the two darlings of the Middle East," says Randy. "I've seen you before," as Barry Green comes to the stage.

Barry Green accepts the Freddie Award. "I'm really proud of the team," says Barry.

Frequent Guest Program :: Best Customer Service [Americas] :: Marriott Rewards

Who's going to take home this year's Freddie?

Marriott Rewards takes home the Freddie for the third consecutive year in this category. Clearly, Marriott is able to offer their members a responsive customer service experience and their members have responded by voting for Marriott. With this win, Marriott has won an impressive 10 Freddie Awards this year.

Michael Katz, Manager, Email Marketing, says thank you as he accepts the award.

IHG Priority Club Rewards is number two in this category for the third year in a row, and Starwood Preferred Guest is number three for the second year in a row. Starwood won the Freddie in this category six times in the past and continues to dominate outside of the Americas.

Frequent Flyer Program :: Best Customer Service [Americas] :: Midwest Miles

Midwest Miles comes in first for the third consecutive year after taking the win from Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards after that program's four consecutive wins (Rapid Rewards has had five wins total).

Midwest Airlines has always placed a high priority on customer service and members of Midwest Miles have been very verbal about how much they appreciate Midwest Miles going that "extra mile" to ensure their experience is favorable - and with an impressive 9.417 Value Vote, this is indeed a testament to how well the program is doing.

Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan, is number two this year with Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards coming in at number three.

Steve Mathwig, Marie O'Shea and Teresa Nuck accept the Freddie Award. "It's a privilege to accept this award for the third year - we know it's not just all about the cookies...," says Steve.

Frequent Guest Program :: Program of the Year [Japan, Pacific, Asia, Australia] :: Starwood Preferred Guest

We're down to the final category and I'm not tired yet!

The winner is Starwood Preferred Guest.

No other hotel program has ever won in this category. Starwood Preferred Guest continues its reign in this region, helped along by its no blackout date policy on free night awards and the high level of service Preferred Guest customers receive.

"Over 50 percent of our properties are located internationally and we love our members all over world. First, I'd like to thank our members and second, thanks to the Starwood team who works day and night to provide great service to our members."

Marriott Rewards came in second for the third year in a row and Hyatt Gold Passport is third for the second consecutive year.

Frequent Flyer Program :: Program of the Year [Japan, Pacific, Asia, Australia] :: Jet Airways JetPrivilege

The crowd is getting excited...

India's Jet Airways JetPrivilege has won Program of the Year in this region for the second year in a row. A former Freddie Industry Impact Award winner, the program has won over its members with its innovative dynamic tier review system that offers five tier membership levels and a host of benefits and earning opportunities including a popular co-branded credit card, lounge access, additional baggage allowance and upgrades.

Australia's Virgin Blue came in at second place (rising fast), up from last year's fourth place finish. Qatar Airways is at third, up from last year's sixth place - quite an accomplishment for
a program based outside the Japan, Pacific, Asia, Australia region.

Gary McNutt accepts the Freddie Award as the big winner for all airlines this evening. "Congratulations, JetPrivilege. This is the one you want to take home," says Randy.

"Seven awards. I can't wait to get back to my hotel room to email everyone at JetPrivilege. The awards tonight are indicative of all their efforts," says Gary.

Frequent Guest Program :: Program of the Year [Europe, Middle East, Africa] :: Starwood Preferred Guest

And, let's see. Does anyone know who's going to win this besides me?

Starwood, yells someone in the audience.

Starwood Preferred Guest comes in at number one again this year for the third time in this four-year-old category. Members like the choice of hotels throughout the world as well as worldwide promotions, the flexibility the program offers and its stellar hospitality.

For a rookie, you're doing all right!

"Thank you again to all of our members and have a good night!"

Coming in at number two for the second year in a row is Marriott Rewards, a former winner in this category. InterContinental Priority Club Rewards comes in at third this year, up from last year's fourth place finish.

Frequent Flyer Program :: Program of the Year [Europe, Middle East, Africa] :: Etihad Airways Etihad Guest

Newcomer Etihad Guest has knocked out the competition this year to claim Program of the Year. For the young program's first chance at the Freddie Awards, it placed a respectable sixth place, and in only its second year, has garnered the ultimate Freddie in the EMEA region.

Etihad Guest was ready from day one to offer their members a well-rounded, well thought out and flexible program. Special congratulations goes to Etihad for
this most impressive win.

The number two program this year is Gulf Air Frequent flyer - up from number three last year. Gulf Air Frequent flyer and Lufthansa (and Partners) Miles & More traded places this year and last year's second place Miles & More is now at number three.

Cheers all around for Etihad. Barry Green and Sharada Iyer accept the award. "We're very proud to win this award for such a young program as ours.... Thank you all for a great evening," says Sharada.

Frequent Guest Program :: Program of the Year [Americas] :: Marriott Rewards

Marriott Rewards is back on top after a hiatus of eight years as the program edges out last year's winner, IHG Priority Club Rewards by a mere .004 Value Vote. Marriott Rewards members are some of the most loyal we've found. They appreciate the frequent bonus offers such as the popular MegaBonus promotions, hotel and air travel award packages and PointSaver hotel stays at up to 33 percent off.

Ed French SVP, Marriott Rewards/CRM accepts the Program of the Year award. "I certainly have a huge amount of appreciation for the programs who are new. And I'd like to say that even after 25 years, it's still hard. On behalf of everyone at Marriott Rewards, thank you."

Coming in at number two is IHG Priority Club Rewards, the winner in this category for the past two years. Coming in at number three is Starwood Preferred Guest. Starwood held the top position for six years in a row but in recent years has lost its exalted position.

Frequent Flyer Program :: Program of the Year [Americas] :: Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan

Freddie favorite, and now a four-time Program of the Year winner, Alaska Airlines is back on top. Alaska Mileage Plan could aptly be called the "little program that could" - they seem to always make the right choices. With an impressive 9.099 Value Vote, Mileage Plan wows its members with substantial award choices, good bonus promotions, an easy-to-use Web site and some of the best customer care
representatives in the industry.

Southwest Rapid Rewards has won this category two times in the past and consistently ranks high in this category. Its second-place finish is a true accomplishment when you look at their Value Vote at 9.072 - not much off Alaska's winning Value Vote.

Of interest this year, is the fall of Frontier Airlines from first last year to sixth place and the third and fourth place finishes for Continental and Delta - the only two "big six" airlines that garner enough praise from members to get them into the top five.

A cheer goes up! "Yes!!!" Rick Rasmussen and team accept the Freddie Award for Alaska Mileage Plan.

"Congratulations to this group - that's one you'll always be proud of because you earned it," says Randy.

"I'm absolutely thrilled to accept this award on behalf of the employees of Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air," says Ann Ardizzone as she accepts the award. "This is a testament to the ability of our employees to create positive change, and most importantly to get our customers to come along with us. We would like to thank our loyal customers, our hard-working employees that deliver exceptional service each and every day that sets us apart from the competition, and as every program knows, the bank that supports the program plays a highly important role. We would like to thank Bank of America, who we are fortunate to have joining us in the audience tonight, for their commitment to our program."

And Rick expresses a special thank you to Ann Ardizzone who was recently promoted to Vice President In-Flight, and says that everyone at Mileage Plan will miss her.

And So Ends the Ceremony

This wouldn't have been possible without our eight sponsors. Thanks again to them. And thanks to you all for 20 glorious years! As everyone makes their way to the exit, we'd like to extend our congratulations to everyone who is taking home a Freddie tonight.

And a thanks to everyone who attended the ceremony - either at the Wyndham Phoenix or online. Thanks for joining in.

See you next year! (And now, to the American Express-sponsored after ceremony, for some mixing and mingling!)