Daley Does Turkey

Now that Mayor Daley has addressed the Obama security issue and passed his 2009 budget, it's time for more important things: like a trip to Turkey to make a pitch for Chicago 2016. The Mayor's packing his bags as we speak because he'll leave tomorrow to attend a European Olympic Committee gathering and press the flesh to sway those members to vote for Chicago. Chicago 2016 Chairman Pat Ryan, who is already in Istanbul for the meeting, said, "It’s not critical that a government leader be at each of these meetings. But it’s important to be at some of them. We have very strong support from Mayor Daley and city government. It’s important that he be here to demonstrate that strong partnership." Ryan also added that the city's bid was aided by the Obama election: "The Obama election has been helpful in that it’s putting a very bright spotlight on Chicago. The acceptance speech in Grant Park, the multi-culturalism and passion of the people, the outstanding acceptance speech resonated around the world. The fact that President-elect Obama is managing the transition from Chicago continues to put a spotlight on Chicago."