This whole subject is more a matter of mental decay on the part of the average American, than it is anything else.
Apply it to the CHS and the Loop or the 7-11 down the street. Not much different when you boil it all down to nuts and bolts.
I began collecting pre-1960 cars in the late 70's, and by the late 80's was running a small wrecking yard catering to those folks who also considered the American car not worth buying after 1970. I tried to promote a way of thinking that it was better to fix it and keep a better vehicle than it was to spend more and get a lesser vehicle (similar mentality to steam railroading, NG or not). Many subscribed to this way of thinking, probably more for reasons why we like old steam-era trains (impractical nostalgia) than because it made practical sense, but the vast majority of Americans just drone on ahead, selling their country down the drain for the carrot-on-a-stick that is the great advertising machine. We were a tiny minority against the masses.
Cigarettes and beer, Hyundais and Paris Hilton, top 40 music videos and easy freeway access, the real world (if we can call it that) screams out "Give me convenience, or give me death", ceaselessly shooting themselves in the foot, thinking there will always be another foot to shoot.
The whole concept drove me mad. Everything was a loss. Old cars, small shops, narrow gauge railroads, whatever you choose to focus on in America, they have all been relegated to the scrap heap of "quaintness" by the vote of the apathetic, the lazy, and the ignorant, .... the "American". Everywhere was yet another 12-plex cinemall, a "factory outlet mall", or the perinneal Wal-mall. Anyone with a brain and an ear knows the schpiel. Furniture stores that never DO NOT have a sale going on. Car dealers no different. Life is a poop sandwich, and everyone gets a big ol' bite (all at easy monthly payments - no interest till 2010!).
I watch this board and others like it. This subject comes up regularly to any discussion where people who think a little more deeply about a quality of life are frustrated to no end by the masses who simply do not care. They would rather sell out the world for some instant gratification than to go to all the trouble of having any concern. As 3rd generations of these folks are upon us, many have no clue that there is anything to care about!
It is agonizing to fight the losing battle, but I am preaching to the choir to tell you all that! What else can you do but to follow your conscience, teach your children well, and hope it takes root somewhere along your path.