MP also presented a $700 check earned by students in the Company-sponsored “Learn & Earn” program, which features school- and-community-based projects to promote energy-efficient lighting. The program also raises students’ and residents’ awareness of the economic and environmental benefits of replacing incandescent light bulbs, lamps and fixtures with ENERGY STAR®-qualifying compact fluorescent light bulbs, lighting fixtures and lamps. Customers receive instant rebates and store discounts when they purchase ENERGY STAR®-qualified products.

Schools can earn between $1 and $5 per qualifying product (up to a total of $5,000) sold at designated retailers to support school programs, purchase school equipment, or to help raise funds for selected school events. Funds raised will benefit the Mesabi East School boys’ and girls’ golf program.

James, McNulty and the school’s golf team members helped promote the lighting products by distributing flyers and posters to businesses in Hoyt Lakes, Aurora and Biwabik.

Minnesota Power and the City of Biwabik Utility, the Learn & Earn co-sponsors for Mesabi East’s program, appreciate the enthusiastic work by students and faculty, as well as commitment from retailers Bradach Lumber and Bradach Ace Hardware Stores, to promote the benefits of energy-saving lighting.