Re: Best Status Run Options - A quick overview!
ORD is generally a good city to fly to/from. Combinations like LAX-PHX-DFW-ORD, SEA-PHX-DFW-ORD, ORD-DFW-MCO can be had for $300-400 USD.
Starting from SEA can be really good, but SFO/LAX is also okay.
Re: Research & book AA "Non-refundable "/"Instant Upgrade"/"YUPP" fare to maximis...
You should get points as long as its an AA code (even on Alaska metal), correct me if I'm wrong.