July 6th 2012, and it is a steamy hot day in Rhode Island. But that did not wilt any of the enthusiasm for the City of Cranston. Today they honor and welcome home the newly crowned Miss USA 2012 – Olivia Culpo.

To celebrate this auspicious occasion, Ahlers Designs crafted a Custom Pewter Ceremonial Key, Made in Rhode Island and cast from reclaimed pewter. The Honorable Allan W. Fung, Mayor of Cranston, ceremonially presented the Key to the City to the lovely talented 20-year-old cellist from Rhode Island.

The observance and ritual of presenting Ceremonial Keys may be traced back to medieval history, when cities were fortified by stone ramparts and locked gates. Hence, providing someone with a key of entry was recognition of high honor and trust. Today, by awarding such a prize, the city official symbolically places the city at their disposal and may be considered one of the highest honors a nonmilitary civilian may achieve.

In acceptance, the accomplished and beautiful Miss Culpo places no secret of her love toward her hometown, exclaiming she is first and foremost, a Cranston girl. Openly expressing deep appreciation for the warm-hearted welcome and celebration from her hometown, Miss Culpo brings pride and esteem to the state of Rhode Island.

Ahlers Designs takes great pleasure to have been included in this gala by designing this unique gift, the Key to the City, commemorating this occasion with admiration and home coming to Miss USA 2012, Olivia Culpo. Brava!

Ahlers Designs’ mission is to provide organizations, associations, and individuals with custom gifts and awards that connect and value personnel, strategic partners, and community. We are passionate about creating unique gifts and top-quality products. We provide individualized attention to design, product development, and collaboration. Our top priority is to provide unparalleled client support from the beginning of an idea to the completion of a project.