DO THEY COUNT AS PURCHASES?
It is confirmed that Citi will consider these as a Cash Advance. They will hit you with a fee AND won't count them toward spending.
HOW TO CASH OUT?
Blue Bird: Amex gift cards cannot be used to load bluebird.
Money Orders: Many locations require a debit card with a PIN; Amex GC don't have a PIN.
Try Amazon Payments, Target Amex or MC/VS GC's from many places.