Chicago sports franchises are allowed to shut down major Chicago thoroughfares after championship seasons to host parades and celebrations. Of the people most bent about the inconvenience, a majority would probably be Oprah viewers. Ironic then that it is Oprah Winfrey herself who will shut down the Magnificent Mile for a few days this week to kick-off her season.
First, I am not an Oprah fan. My wife is and I avoid her Oprah Ti-Vo viewings like the plague. I also suspect that Oprah is not a Blackhawks fan. So why then am I writing about Oprah? I am asking myself the same question.
That said, why blame Oprah for requesting the use of Michigan Avenue? If you where her, wouldn't you? Plus, she knows that you're either a fan or you're not. The event will not change anyone's already formulated opinion of Miss Winfrey.
It was a good idea for Oprah to ask. Any idea that is granted is a "good idea." As for Mayor Daley, you could tell him it was a bad idea the next time you cast a ballot in a Chicago mayoral election. But, Daley is correct in assuming that his populace will forget the Oprah dispute in a month, if not less. For the Mayor, everything is about the Olympics.
And don't think John McDonough has not been paying attention. After the success of last year's Winter Classic, the Blackhawks team president will be searching for new venues to showcase his young, rising hockey club.
How about freezing over Michigan Ave. for a little NHL street hockey? Maybe hosting a game at Millenium Park will suffice? Out on the frozen waters of Lake Michigan? I'll stay on my couch for that one.
While both McDonough and Oprah are similar in their marketing prowess, they do have one major difference. McDonough doesn't like to get booed and will respond in due fashion. Oprah - she could care less who she pisses off.
Filed under: Oprah
Tags: Blackhawks, Chicago, hawks, John McDonough, Mayor Daley, Oprah
Mark, Happy Labor Day, if celebrating having to work for a living is a valid reason for national holiday. Frankly, May Day is much more entertaining, if only because of the characters who come out to parade and wave red banners. Hey now, maybe McD could turn May Day into Maybe Day, as in 'Maybe the Hawks will win a Cup this year".
You also seem to suggesting in a very sly fashion--as is the Kileyesque way of seeing the world and commenting on it--that Oprah may be lined up to replace Johnny Mac as Grand Marketing Vizier for the Hawkey Flock.
Actually, I like it. "Oprah and "Scotty" could be bigger than Mike And Mike In the Morning.
I can hear Rocky rubbing his hands right now.