|
Going Once! Going Twice! Bidders Battle for DUI La-Z-Boy
(Nov. 2) -- How bad off can the world economy be if bidders on eBay are willing to pay more than $40,000 for an old La-Z-Boy recliner?
OK, this isn't any old piece of dilapidated furniture. This is the "Hot Rod La-Z-Boy," a chair souped up with an eight-horsepower lawnmower engine, stereo speakers, headlights, a steering wheel and a cup holder. The cracked leather cushions are festooned with racing stickers.
One sticker reads: "Hell Yeah, It's Fast!" Another says: "NHRA Championship Drag Racing."
Dennis LeRoy Anderson of Minnesota -- inventor of this contraption -- pleaded guilty on Oct. 22 to DUI, admitting that he slammed it into a parked car after drinking eight or nine beers.
The 62-year-old accepted two years of probation.
Now, the Proctor Police Department, which owns the La-Z-Boy under state forfeiture law, is auctioning off the infamous recliner. As of 6 p.m. ET Monday, bidding had topped $43,000 with 17 hours to go.
Proceeds will be split between the Police Department and the state of Minnesota.
If you are one of the 98 bidders who have thus far taken part in the action, be warned: The chair still isn't street legal.
Among the La-Z-Boy's other deficiencies, it lacks safety belts.
Anderson, of course, won't share in the proceeds. He is selling an autographed photo (latest bid, $300) and a seat cushion ($500).
If the bidding is too rich for your blood, try a brand-new La-Z-Boy, straight from the manufacturer. They start at just $500, and they move, too. Slide the handle and your legs will lift up while your back, neck and shoulders shift back in a pleasing, horizontal position, perfect for watching TV.
My wife would gladly spend several thousand dollars to motorize my La-Z-Boy, simply to get it out of the house.
|
|