>>When thinking about setting up a radio receiver that I could use in emergencies, I remembered this enough to know that I didn't want a regular old radio.<<

We have a multifuntion emergency radio that includes a hand crank, a flashlight, and a warning siren that will sound in case of a weather emergency. We mostly tune it to the emergency weather station, which has been very useful when the weather might spawn a tornado. YMMV.

>>I won't set up computer-radio until I know how to use it and am sure that I'd be able to use it in an emergency.<<

Sensible.

>> Even then, it might not be terribly useful, as we are kind of down in the valley.<<

It's useful all right, but possibly not until an actual emergency. First responders and disaster workers tend to use radio for announcements and communication. They have roving equipment to broadcast and receive. So you should be able to pick up on that from whomever would be in the valley. Especially if you plan to get a HAM license, talk with whomever does emergency planning in your valley. They should know the radio communication plans, any local emergency channels, and would probably like to know that you have a rig.

Also check the nearest college. They often have a media department that sometimes includes a radio station, but they don't all publicize it. If you ask, they may let you in on it, especially if you're willing to interact with students.