UNSPENT `Y2K PANIC MONEY' TO SPUR SECOND CHRISTMAS?

UNSPENT `Y2K PANIC MONEY' TO SPUR SECOND CHRISTMAS?

CHICAGO (Wireless Flash) -- Christmas may actually come twice this winter if a business trend expert in Chicago is correct. According to John Challenger, if January 1 passes without a hitch, it's probable that all of the people currently stashing away cash in case of a Y2K meltdown will instead spend the dough on gifts and treats. This second Christmas could be even bigger than the real one because the average family is putting away about $1000 for Y2K emergencies compared to the $850 they're spending on Christmas presents this year. However, Challenger warns the post-Y2K spending sprees could cause some major problems for retailers, who tend to lay off part-timers after the Christmas rush. He suggests stores take a cue from Y2K survivalists and start "stockpiling" employees just in case Christmas II really happens.