Introducing the 8-foot-long plasma TV; only $69,995
An 8-foot-long plasma TV?
That's the size of the Panasonic Professional Plasma 103-inch 1080p HDTV.
To put it in perspective: If the gigantic former NBA star Manute Bol was lying on the couch, it would be a whole foot longer than him.
The monstrous TV is a main attraction to customers at Abt Electronics in Glenview, where it's been in stock since February.
How much does it cost? $69,995.
Kind of rules it out as a Father's Day gift, but shockingly, they've already sold five of them, an Abt representative said.
Panasonic isn't the only electronics company selling 103-inch TVs, but it still ranks as the largest consumer television set currently made.
Need more Namaste?
Yoga-inspired athletic wear is the specialty at Lululemon Athletica, an expanding chain with a store in Oak Brook Center. It's a higher-end retailer - their popular "groove pants" are $92 - but customers love the quality and camaraderie the store provides. The Oak Brook store has complementary yoga classes at 9 a.m. every Saturday, plus monthly events such as "Namaste Saturdays" at the mall.
Lululemon's clothing offers moisture-wicking fabrics and other functional features (hidden pockets, mesh paneling, etc.). The clothes can't be purchased online yet, but phone orders can be taken at (877) 263-9300.
Where have you been?
Has your Dad's life been an interesting journey?
Then a neat Father's Day gift might be a JourneyMarker, a porch decoration that includes personalized directional signs. Add whatever places you want: Wrigley Field, Indiana University, Vietnam or Margaritaville. Prices start at $89 for five mile-markers, and $13 for each additional one. Orders can be placed at journeymarkers.com.
Fashion notes
Between now and June 15, if you purchase a pair of Brighton sunglasses, you'll get a free beach towel. Brighton products are sold at more than a dozen suburban stores. See brightonretailers.com/locator for a complete list.
Congratulations to beauty and wellness expert Mary Beth Janssen, owner of The Janssen Source in Palatine, for being awarded the L.E.O. Award by Pivot Point International for her career achievements. Among the five other winners was Oprah's longtime hairstylist, Andre Walker.
Janssen specializes in holistic and organic living and has written four books, including the recently released "Rejuvenation: Spa Secrets for Menopause" (Chronicle Books, $14.95). She is also a certified message therapist, aromatherapist, herbalist and yoga teacher (she received certification from Dr. Deepak Chopra to be a mind body health educator).