In August of 2004, there was a blackout on much of the Eastern seaboard of the United States. We were in Manhattan when it hit. At first it was a bit exciting, but as the evening approached and we realized we'd have to go through a hot August night without even a fan, I lost my taste for this little adventure.
Just about every other block, someone would open their car doors and leave their radio on loud enough for other people to hear the news.
Here's an interesting note that I found taped to a door. FYI - Queens is a LONG WAY AWAY! (Don't forget to click on the little magifying glass to see the details)