It is ironic how the majority of Americans who complain about Starbucks high prices now for espresso drinks had virtually no clue about what a latte or cappuccino before Starbucks became popular. Every time you mention Starbucks it is, "Oh they are too expensive, they don't fair trade, I hate their drinks."
Well I hear this applied to the Macintosh and iPhone all the time. We knew they were the best products (except Testudo) and bought them anyways.
It is simple. Don't buy from Starbucks if you don't like them. Heck, I would get a Creative Zen instead of an iPod if I was concerned about Apple's lack of a removable battery, which I am not.
Back to topic:
There are no stores closing in the Colorado area that I have seen. There is only one store in Dallas, TX that is shutting down. Check
http://www.starbucksgossip.com for a link to the list. You might have to scroll down some. I think it is available from the WSJ as well.