The Low-Tech Times

There’s no denying it; an alarming number of kids and teenagers these days are addicted  to video games and there are a number of real concerns about today’s video games. If you want to purchase video games for your child, I recommend choosing a classic system for the following reasons:

1.) VIOLENCE—Today’s games (e.g. Grand Theft Auto) are violent compared with classic games (e.g. Pac-Man).

2.) TIME—A single play of a current game (e.g. Halo 3) can take several hours. Classic games (e.g. Galaga), on the other hand, typically do not take nearly as long. Shorter-play games may lead to more time spent doing other activities, like doing chores or playing outside.

3.) COST—Today’s video game systems (e.g. Xbox-360, Playstation 3, Wii) cost well more than $300. Individual modern games typically run for $50-60. Alternatively, you can purchase a classic system, including built-in games, for as little as $15.

Check out the links below to purchase inexpensive classic game systems that plug directly into a TV:

During a recent ice storm, we lost power. Modern telephones with answering machines and wireless handsets require the power to be on in order for them to work. Fortunately, I could call the electric company because I had an old phone that works just off the phone line.

Many people today are canceling their landline service and using cell phones only. However, cell phone reception can be negatively impacted by bad weather.

Therefore, I highly recommend purchasing an old-fashioned phone that does not need to be plugged into an electrical outlet. Look what Amazon.com has to offer: