I think that the fact that these two treasures have been allowed to fall into such a state shows a great deal about what the region has done to keep them: nothing. It is sad that the Columbia seems destined to the Hudson river, but at least she'll be restored by somebody who seems to give a damn, and that brings hope that at some point in the future she may return home. The same can't be said for most of what we have neglected, then tossed aside.