How Richmond went all out to celebrate Francine the Lowe's cat

The big picture: When the city's most-famous kitty — whose story has since made national news and Good Morning America — was found this week, dozens of businesses donated prizes for Francine Fest within days, including:

• A Duke's Mayo gift box and a month of unlimited memberships to workout spots like F45 and the Hot Yoga Barre.
• Gift cards to Helen's, Havana 59, Abi's Book and Brews and more.
• Tickets to the Richmond Kickers and an Allianz Amphitheater concert, a free tattoo up to $1,000, dinner for two at Quirk and a free state inspection.

Mayor Avula went to go see her, squashing the beef with his once political rival, who received 8 write-in votes in the last election.

• Early Bird Biscuit Co. made chocolate-dipped Francine-shaped shortbread cookies. Richmond SPCA waived all adoption fees for kitties this week.

Zoom in: Ryan Myers made shirts that said "Francine, Working Class Hero." RACC has hoodies that say "Forever Team Francine" with proceeds going toward SOS Cats RVA.

• Richmond public libraries rounded up their favorite books featuring adventurous cats.
• Tattoo artists launched flash art of Francine, with proceeds going to the SPCA and other organizations that helped find the Lowe's cat.

And when we were still awaiting her safe return home, some were lighting Francine prayer candles.

The bottom line: No one throws a homecoming party quite like Richmond — especially when the paws coming home are Francine's.