The gizmo-lovers among us will probably enjoy a visit to Eton Corp’s web page…

http://www.shopetoncorp.com

Check out the Rover, which combines an LED flashlight with a radio that has AM, FM and weather bands. If the power runs low, pop out the hand crank (or have your 12-year-old do so for you ) and start whirring. One minute later, you’ll be good to go for another 15 minutes or more. What’s more, you can use a USB charger in place of the 12-year-old (if you’re fresh out). What’s more, you can also *charge* anything that runs on a USB plug, including a cell phone. As one reviewer observed, if the electric stays out for more than a few hours, these days, you’re going to want to tell all your Facebook friends anyway. The Rover will set you back about $50, but it might be the last flashlight you’ll ever have to buy, at least for power-loss-emergencies.