Arney, after reading your post concerning the lack of local radio news and the utilization of a radio covering the TV-audio frequencies to keep tabs on local events, I just wanted to mention that you might consider acquiring a scanner (scanning receiver) capable of monitoring the local Police, Fire and Public Services in your area.

As a practical matter, the cost of a suitable scanner for your area will depend upon whether the local Public Service in your communications where you live are based around traditional fixed frequencies (ie. Police always at 145.3 MHz) or utilize the newer "trunking" technologies (of which there are two flavors -- analog or digital). In a trunked radio system, several agencies share the same set of "channels" in the 800 Mhz public service band. You can't efficiently monitor a trunked system with a traditional scanner since the conversation will jump from channel-to-channel with each transmission. A decent scanner that can monitor fixed frequencies can be had for around $ 150 new. An analog "trunk tracking" scanner for around $ 250 (ie. Bearcat Br330t) new -- and lastly, a "digital" trunk tracker for between $ 400 and $ 500(ie. Bearcat 396D or Radio-Shack Pro 96).. Yes, the scanner can be expensive, but like anything else, you'll get a jump on everyone -- including the local TV stations regarding events as they unfold.

The reason I've come upon all this technical information is that I've been researching the purchase of a new scanner for my own use as the Public Service agencies where I live have switched over to an analog "trunked" radio system -- so I thought I'd share some of the insights I've gained with the group.

One other thought -- with regard to TV audio via radio, I believe it may be the case that when broadcast-TV is switched exclusively to "digital" mode -- none of the current generation of radios which receive TV-audio will work anymore.

Best of luck to you in your efforts to stay informed in the face of adverse conditions.