Coming Soon... Oprah: The Store

The Oprah empire is expanding, and this venture has been kept under wraps until now. Shes building in Chicago, right across the street from her studio. Oprahs Harpo studios is already a huge draw for the West Loop, and now, this! A nearly 5,000 square-foot space where you could say a major makeover is underway. Soon the building will be home to some of Oprahs "favorite things." The store is just steps away from the studio. Guests can walk right out of Oprahs studios and go shopping! And thats not all. The hope is show guests and other tourists will stay in the area. Chicago Alderman Walter Burnett says its nothing but good. Oprahs been buying additional property in the area for her expanding staff and expanding businesses. "By allowing businesses to grow in the neighborhood, and people in the community get more jobs. So its a win, win situation," Burnett says. Some "O" items for sale include DVDs, workout gear and African baskets. An Oprah iPod cover costs $14. Handwoven baskets cost about $25. There are mugs and key chains for $10. Officials with Harpo will not reveal a possible opening date for the store at this time. Photo Credit: Courtesy: www.thewomensalliance.org