So it begins: Gap closing Chicago North Michigan Avenue store

North Michigan Avenue in June
after first round of riots

Yeah, the corporate suits are claiming that The Gap is closing its massive Magnificient Mile store in Chicago as part of a restructuring plan that will close 350 other retail outlets. But I am not buying it. North Michigan Avenue was devestated by two rounds or rioting and looting. The reality is, in my opinion, that The Gap realized the bloom is off the rose on the Mile and Chicago, and North Michigan Avenue, is on the decline and not worth the headaches. 

I predict many more departures. I will be right.