CLEVELAND — As Cleveland wraps up All-Star Weekend, City Council President Blaine Griffin tells 3News that The Land really shined while under the lights.
"It was really vibrant and that's what we want in our city," Griffin said. "We were the center of the world stage for culture, diversity, for music, for fashion, of course, education and absolutely basketball. we had some of the best athletes in the world here and we showed that Cleveland can host this type of diverse setting and really put on a great show!"
Local business owners like Brian Grenshaw of Anejo Tequila Joint said that bringing in big businesses is difficult this time of year. Regardless of the bitter cold weather conditions that the city saw on Friday and Saturday, local businesses still prevailed.
"Cleveland is a gem, it's a jewel. It has a lot to offer." Grenshaw continued, "People that I talked to who came from out of town, they had smiles on their faces and were having a good time, " the partner of the Tequila Joint said.
Because hosting events like All-Star Weekend was such a success for local business revenue and tourism, perhaps this weekend foreshadows a brighter future for the city.
Griffin said, "Everybody that I've talked t, from celebrities and superstars to the owners of the Cavs to the Greater Cleveland Sports Commission, all talked about how the people of this city were welcoming our visitors and really opened up our arms and greeted them."
Local businesses would like more big events to the city. "I would like to see more events like this come to the city because we have a lot to offer," Grenshaw said.
Cleveland native Sherjewel Clark said, "They probably think we are the place to be, a little chilly, but the place to be."
Overall, visitors, businesses, residents and city officials alike say they give Cleveland an 'A+' -- a grade suited for an All-Star Weekend.
MORE NBA ALL-STAR GAME COVERAGE:
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