You make an interesting point, Zukracer, in your reply to TJC and Stepping. Most of us use our points to treat our family and friends, and most of us use our points in leisure travel (so the upgrade becomes even more important to us). To use these points which we have worked so hard to acquire, and then be treated basically as a second-class citizen when we do, is unacceptable. All the Mariott literature is geared to pleasing the customer, and we Platinum members are frequently informed that we are the most valued members of all. So we Platinum members are so "valued" that when we use our hard-earned points, we don't qualify for the same upgrade that we would get if were if we were paying cash???? There's a certain disparity here between what Mariott literature proclaims and the interactions between the front desk personnel and MR members using points.
I certainly hope this issue gets addressed by Marriott Corporate. I don't care whether I am thanked for being a Platinum Member, or not, when I check in. THE PEOPLE WHO SHOULD BE THANKED, AND THANKED PROFUSELY, ARE THE MR MEMBERS WHO ARE USING THEIR POINTS FOR THE STAY, NO MATTER WHAT MR LEVEL THEY ARE. The associate should acknowledge that the MR member has worked to accumulate their points, and say, "We here at (name the property) know that you have worked hard to earn your points, and we want you to know that we appreciate you using them at our hotel!"