Oprah Winfrey Gets Approval from City of Chicago to Close Magnificent Mile for Taping, Mayor Daley Comes Under Fire

Oprah Winfrey has shown how far her influence reaches in Chicago. Some folks are up in arms over the Mayor Richard Daley and the city of Chicago have agreed to allow the talk-show queen to shut down a significant stretch of the Magnificent Mile next week for the kickoff of her 24th season. According to the Chicago Sun Times, plans call for Michigan Avenue to be closed to vehicular traffic from Wacker Drive to Ohio Street for more than two days -- from 12:01 a.m. Monday to 5 a.m. Wednesday. The hourlong show will be taped at 5 p.m. Tuesday at a temporary stage to be built near the Michigan Avenue Bridge. The taping is free and open to the public.

Some shoppers and businesses only the Mag Mile are upset that Ms. Winfrey was allowed to close off the famous strip for so long. I find it hard to believe that this won't be good for the city. Oprah Winfrey has more than star power. For example, there is a Gap clothing store nearby. I am sure that they will get some more business from all those people coming to the taping. The only problem I expect would be for drivers and public transit riders. The Chicago Transit Authority is telling commuters to use alternative routes.

Mayor Daley said any inconvenience is worth it and that motorists and commuters will understand. He said Winfrey's taping great publicity for the city and an event that will create jobs. At least this isn't a free meal as in the case of the Michael Jackson memorial service. The show will reimburse Chicago for any costs incurred. Well, almost everything -- sanitation isn't included. Of course, you can't please everyone. There are many who have taken offense to what Ms. Winfrey is doing, for all the wrong reasons.