Pinball machines are becoming increasingly popular once again in the present day. They are seen as a relic of a bygone era, sitting in basements across the country. However, one teacher in Winona has recognized this trend and started a new club for his students to restore broken pinball machines to working order.
The Pinhawk Club, led by Matthew Wagner, focuses on teaching students about electronics and mechanics while restoring old pinball machines. The members of the club are currently working on their first project, which they plan to auction off on Saturday to raise funds for the club. One of the student members, high school junior Corey Duncan, spoke with MPR News host Cathy Wurzer about their efforts and the impact of the club.
Wurzer recently interviewed Wagner and Duncan about their work and how it’s making an impact on their community. You can listen to the full conversation using the audio player above or subscribe to the Minnesota Now podcast on platforms like Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and Spotify. Transcripts for each broadcast will be available next business day. Your support helps MPR News continue to provide accessible, courageous journalism and authentic conversation for everyone without paywalls or barriers.
In summary, pinball machines are gaining popularity once again in today’s world as a relic of a bygone era. Winona Area Learning Center teacher Matthew Wagner recognized this trend and started a new club called Pinhawk Club that focuses on restoring broken pinball machines back to working order while teaching students about electronics and mechanics. The members of the club plan to auction off their first project on Saturday to raise funds for future projects.
