I miss pre-COVID prices. Our local diner is now $20+ for a simple breakfast (eggs, toast, bacon, coffee/tea) for two people. Pre-COVID is was ~$10 with tip.

> Is there a town somewhere where everyone is over 45 and there is no cell service and a full meal is $5?

Yes, but they're suspicious of outsiders and newcomers. They're afraid the newbies will vote away everything that makes that town feel like home.

Your imagined past was enabled on the back of exploitation poor people and minorities.