On May 7, crystal apples were given to Cincinnati philanthropists Rhoda and Manuel D. Mayerson. Manuel D. Mayerson is the founder of The Mayerson Company, and along with Rhoda, the Manuel D. and Rhoda Mayerson Foundation. Mr. Mayerson was a pioneer in the shopping center industry, and an early developer of open and enclosed malls. He owned or managed many downtown properties, including the Central Trust Tower (currently PNC), The First National Bank (Fourth & Walnut), Dixie Terminal, the Provident Bank Building, and Scripps Center at 312 Walnut. Mr. Mayerson also is known for pioneering the lighting up of the Cincinnati skyline and Music Hall.

The Mayersons have contributed their time, talent, and financial resources and served on many of Cincinnati’s non-profit boards including FreeStore Foodbank, SCPA, Hebrew Union College, Children’s Hospital, and a variety of fine arts organizations, including the Cincinnati Ballet and Cincinnati Art Museum. Their foundation has contributed significantly to hundreds of local non-profits and helped create a number of new non-profits that are unique in the nation.