Frank,
About a year ago, I boogered up my passanger side sill on a brick wall and contemplated buying a new one too. After pricing new ones, however, I decided to give my local body shop a shot at it. The sheet metal repair, painting, and appliques totaled $400 and it's as good as new.
The funny part is that the appliques (3) totaled about $100. I think they must be made of some sort of translucent precious metal to cost that much.
Anyway, unless the damage is terminal, I'd suggest getting it repaired.
It worked for me.....
Don