Keep Islip Clean (KIC), a certified affiliate of Keep America Beautiful, Inc. (KAB) is encouraging groups and organizations throughout Islip Township with outstanding environmental programs to enter KAB’s 2001 National Awards Program.

The annual awards program recognizes non-profit, civic and community organizations, youth groups and schools; government agencies and business and professional organizations. To be eligible, programs must conduct litter prevention or beautification programs; foster environmental stewardship and/or preserve the natural beauty of the environment; be a continuing effort, or dramatize the need for ongoing action; minimize the impact of solid waste on the community; educate the community about litter prevention, beautification and waste minimization; have taken place within the calendar year 2000/2001.

KIC Chairman Bill Johnston says that entries are being accepted in three categories: litter prevention; beautification and community improvement and minimization of the impact of waste on communities.

Applications may be obtained by contacting KIC’s Executive Director Nora Detweiler at the KIC Office, 660 Main St., Islip) at 631-224-2627. Winners will be notified by the National Office of KAB in Stamford, CT by October 15. Awards will be presented at the KAB 48th National Conference in Washington, DC on December 7. The deadline for entries is August 17.