Winners of the annual Red Ribbon poster contest were announced at the Dec. 8 Township Council meeting.

The Township Council Dec. 8 presented commendations to a number of students who won a township-wide poster contest, and to two of its own.

The students won commendations for their entries in the annual Red Ribbon Poster Contest. Red Ribbon Week is a national substance abuse prevention campaign run in schools.

The council also presented commendations to Mayor Chris Kelly and Deputy Mayor Kimberly Francois.

Kelly was appointed to the position in January following the resignation of former Mayor Brian Levine, who is now a Somerset County Freeholder. Kelly lost his bid for a full, 4-year term in the November election.

Alice Osipowitz, the township’s recreation director, presented the awards to the Red Ribbon winners.

The students, she said, “are perfect examples of students who not only participate, but go above and beyond.”

Francois said the award committee “had a very difficult time picking. All of the posters were fabulous.”

“We can be very proud of our students,” she said.

Mayor Chris Kelly was given a commendation by the Township Council at his last council meeting as mayor.

The council surprised Kelly with the commendation, which was presented by Francois.

“He has represented Franklin Township very well,” Francois said of Kelly. “We’re going to miss you.”

The commendation noted that the “time and talent dedicated to the township is merely a small indication of Chris’ dedication to the township and its residents.”

Kelly thanked the council “for having the confidence to appoint me in January.”

“This has been a roller coaster of a year,” Kelly said, reflecting on his battle against cancer and the campaign for mayor.

“I thank the people of Franklin Township for bearing with me as well,” he said.

Kelly also thanked Councilman Phil Kramer, (D-Ward 3), who defeated him for the mayor’s seat in November, for his “help and advice. Things got a little contentious, but we’re all here for the township.”

Deputy Mayor Kimberly Francois hugs Township Councilman Rajiv Prasad after he presented her with a commendation from the Council.

The council’s commendation to Francois was presented by Councilman Rajiv Prasad (D- At Large).

The commendation thanked Francois for her year of service as deputy mayor.

The council extended its “appreciation to Kimberly Francois for her distinguished service.”