MOUNT VERNON — September’s First Friday theme was fellowship. It also featured the “Taste of Downtown,” highlighting the fare of six restaurants and the crowning of Little Miss Friday.

Those attending the event had a choice of several events and activities. There was live music at the Main Street Stage with Chestnut Ridge and the Fellowship Friday Community Gospel Sing.

The Little Miss Friday contest came to a close with Tyrran Benson winning the queen’s crown and Devana Keyes named princess.

Mount Vernon Mayor Richard K. Mavis presented the Mount Vernon Citizen of the Year award to co-winners Austin Swallow and Mary-Anne K. Pomputius.

Swallow has served six years on the Mount Vernon Municipal Planning Commission.

“I am honored. I didn’t expect it,” said Swallow of his award. “When the mayor called me up six years ago to be on the commission I agreed because it gave me an opportunity to be involved in the community. It’s been fun. It has been not without controversy. One interesting thing has been being quoted in the newspaper. And all the decisions you make are out there for everybody to see, which is different. The fun part is being involved. Helping to plan the community and making sure the growth is orderly and protecting the historic areas, that has become important to me.”

Pomputius has served nine years on the Board of Zoning Appeals and is currently serving as chairwoman.

“I told Mr. Mayor there were around me those more deserving than I,” Pomputius said about receiving the award. “I am honored to be among those who have been recognized by this award. This is the nicest thing that has happened in a very long time. I have enjoyed my work and I never thought about it as anything else but a minute contribution to the city. I like it very much. But the pleasure of a job well done according to the correct political process and the democratic process is very rewarding.”

The mayor also presented the new Mount Vernon city flag to Makenzie Mellick, the Mount Vernon High School student who had the winning design for the flag.

In keeping with the theme of fellowship, WNZR and several local churches co-sponsored the appearance of numerous local church youth groups which performed mime and drama along with balloon artists and face painters.

Rounding out the festivities were the Classic Car Cruise-in and a silent cake auction to benefit Interchurch Social Services and CareNet Pregnancy Services.