They say computer meltdowns are unlikely, but acknowledge there may be temporary service disruptions. They are telling residents to behave as though a hurricane or big winter storm were approaching, urging everyone to store nonperishable foods, batteries, a battery-powered radio, flashlights, fresh water, and some extra cash. It also might be wise, says the President's Council on Year 2000 Conversion, to have paper copies of electronic records stored safely. Some Americans are taking no chances. A year ago, the Merkles began holding free, biweekly Y2K-preparedness workshops on the second floor of the shop.
Most customers learn about the store from expos and gun shows and through word of mouth.
This is where participants can learn to grow sprouts, bake yeastless bread, and make stew from rock-hard protein cubes. At one recent workshop, about 15 people were seated in chairs along three walls. Kathleen Merkle displayed items, one by one, from a table in the center of the room. Behind her was a small gas stove, atop which a mixture of soy products and dehydrated vegetables was stewing. Then came food advice.