This may be old news to some (most?), but it looks like the Gold Points program isn't changing, it's going away! From an e-mail we received today 1/3/08 just after midnight, the Gold Points program is being closed and you will not be able to earn points after March 31, 08. You will still be able to redeem points, but just what does that mean, and for how long? Does anyone know more about this? Are points transferrable to the goldpoints plus Carlson Hotels program?

Here is the e-mail I got, and the FAQs it pointed to:

This is what’s at “Learn More”:
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Question - What will happen to GPRN members and their Gold Points?
Answer - Gold Points Reward Network members still will be able to redeem their Gold Points for great merchandise and gift cards.
Question - When will you stop issuing Gold Points?
Answer - The last day to earn Gold Points at network partner locations or by shopping at goldpoints.com is March 31, 2008. Any purchases or qualifying transactions occurring by this time will still be eligible for point earnings.
Members who are Gold Points Visa® credit card holders will continue to earn Gold Points on purchases made with their card through the closing date of their March 2008 statement. Bank of America will contact these members with information about converting to another point-earning credit card.
Question - How long do members have to redeem their Gold Points?
Answer - Gold Points do not expire. But if you see something you want at goldpoints.com you should act quickly as some quantities may be limited and reward offerings change over time.
Question - What level of customer support will remain in place as members continue to redeem their Gold Points?
Answer - Gold Points Reward Network will remain open for redemptions. Please visit our website (goldpoints.com) or call our call center (800.508.9000).
Question - Tell me about the new T.G.I. Friday's program.
Answer - T.G.I. Friday's is working hard on an exciting new frequent guest program for early 2008 which will be more relevant and focused on their most loyal guests. To ensure that you are receiving the most accurate information on the new program, we encourage you to visit fridays.com.
Question - What happens to my Gold Points Visa credit card? Will I still be able to earn points?
Answer - You will continue to earn Gold Points on purchases made with your Gold Points Visa® credit card through the closing date of your March 2008 billing statement. Bank of America will contact you with information on converting your account to another point-earning credit card.
Question - Is there a replacement program?
Answer - No, there is no replacement program for Gold Points Reward Network. However, those who are frequent travelers or interested in a travel program are encouraged to join Carlson Hotels' goldpoints plus program. Visit goldpointsplus.com for more details.
Also, T.G.I. Friday's is working hard on an exciting new frequent guest program for early 2008 which will be more relevant and focused on their most loyal guests. To ensure that you are receiving the most accurate information on the new program, we encourage you to visit fridays.com.
Question - If I redeem for an item in the catalog and something is wrong with it when I get it, will I still be able to exchange it?
Answer - Absolutely. The Help section of the Gold Points Award Catalog offers support for returning a defective item and other such order questions.