H.U.G.S. Program Funds New Sewing Machines And Hickok Stage Curtains

Members of the Pioneer Electric H.U.G.S. (Helping Us Give to Society) team presented The Grant County Extension office with a $1,150 grant on August 31, 2022. The funds will be used to purchase two new Janome sewing machines to be utilized by the Grant County youth sewing 4-H project.

Monica Walker, Grant county’s extension agent said the program currently uses four Janome sewing machines and six older Brother sewing machines. She went on to state students using the older sewing machines, purchased in 2014, seem to have more issues than those using the higher quality machines. The program hopes to replace the older machines by purchasing six total new Janome machines.

“It is preferable to have all youth sewing on the same type of machine for more efficiency in instruction,” Walker explained. “These new machines will help the program become more efficient and teach the students important life skills.”

Purchasing new sewing machines will also open the possibility of community sewing workshops for adults interested in learning how to sew.

“Giving back to society is in the H.U.G.S. name and the Grant County Extension Sewing project is a great example,” said Anita Wendt, H.U.G.S. team member and Vice President of Energy Services at Pioneer Electric. “4-H’ers and adults will be able to benefit from the use of these machines and gain skills that will serve them now and in the future.”

Pioneer Electric's H.U.G.S. program also presented Hickok Elementary music instructor, Brad Timpkin a $3,000 grant on Wednesday, August 31, 2022. The funds will be used to replace the school's 35-year-old stage curtains.

Timpkin stated that the drapes are old, faded, and past their fire rated lifespan of 20 years, making them a hazard to those using the stage.

"The new drapes will not only be much safer, but also add some beauty to Hickok's stage," said Anita Wendt. "The school will be able to select a new color for the drapes, updating them from the current pink color."