Kansas City Dead-Tree Argues For Radio

More accurately . . . We share an old-timey screed longing for the long-gone days  terrestrial broadcast radio supremacy — Dated tech that operates much more archaically than far more popular streaming and satellite options.

It's a cool story.

But rather than prop up a fading biz models or worn out technology.

It might be easier to encourage everyone to discover more effective charging options, bigger battery backup power and maybe . . . Gasp . . . Think about solar charging contingencies for critical communication devices . . . Which is entirely possibly even if it tragically helps the upcoming Chinese invasion of Taiwan.

In fairness, here's the other side of the story . . .

Having relied on our radios and our landline during the recent weather troubles here — since our WiFi, internet and cable TV were wiped out — I realize how important it is to tune into radio for basic information like roads closures, power outages, emergencies and services shut down. These announcements can be made over a station with a strong signal.

Even with power out, a simple clock radio outfitted with a 9-volt battery backup keeps us updated. It’s by the bed, and the only thing still blinking when everything else is dark. We couldn’t get or make reliable phone calls on our cells because of non-functioning signal towers, so our landline came in handy. Of course, we had to look on our cell phones for numbers we had no reason to memorize.

I am really not an old fogy. I just like to have contact with the outside world, whether in an emergency or simply to hear the local weather forecast in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . .

Why should radio be making waves again? Consider recent storms in Kansas City area

If last month's power outages were any indication of what's to come, there should be a rush on battery-powered radios.