Fitzoid. Thanks for the thoughts. But I disagree on a couple of points.

First, you are right that an AM/FM radio is all that you really need. But "need" and "want" are two different things. In the event of an extended power outage, having the option of listening to something else besides AM and FM might be nice from an entertainment point of view. Shortwave would fill this gap nicely, and can be found for well under $50. Secondly, the ability to listen to the local 2M repeaters and TV audio would be useful as well for getting information. Hams are among the best informed people in the event of an emergency. The "DC-to-Daylight" would work well for this.

Secondly, I do recommend a hand-crank radio. I have the Grundig/Eton FR200 shortwave crank radio. You are wrong about the batteries. Lithium-ion batteries definately have a half-life even while in storage. NiCad batteries, on the other hand, can be stored for years with no ill effects other than self-discharge. I believe that NiMH batteries also survive storage well. The FR200 also has a single white LED built-in, so in one box you can have AM/FM/Shortwave, and illumination. Plus, you can crank it or put in AA batteries (your choice). Clearly, this is a lot of flexibility. The crank means not having to panic if the batteries in it are dead. You can use it all that you want, because you are not worried about "rationing" the battery power. The only problem with the FR200 is that it is too large for bugging out, but it is perfect for bugging in.