Originally Posted by FABismonte
Short deadlines to use earned Seven Stars Benefits -- I made Seven Stars only in December 2013 and while I technically remain Seven Stars until March 2015, my $500 celebration dinner needed to be used before end of March 2014, with the same deadline for my regular Seven Stars Retreat. Why allow people to earn status benefits throughout the calendar year but only allow such a short window to avail benefits?
I agree this is a little weird, but you can use it to your advantage.

You can earn Seven Stars just once every TWO years (do it January 1-March 31), and you will still have uninterrupted Seven Stars benefits for only half the play required.

That's why I haven't played in 2014.