LEWISTON, Maine – The community of Lewiston, Maine, experienced tragedy when a mass shooting took place at a local bowling alley last October. However, in a display of resilience and unity, the bowling alley has now reopened its doors, signaling a step towards recovery and healing for the town. Mayor Carl Sheline expressed the sentiment of the community by stating, “This is us, standing back up again.”
Owners Justin and Samantha Juray showed incredible courage by reopening Just-In-Time Recreation, the venue where the tragic event unfolded. The reopening took place on Friday, May 3, six months after the deadliest shooting in the state’s history claimed the lives of 18 individuals and left 13 others injured. The community rallied behind the Jurays, showing unwavering support and solidarity in their decision to reopen.
Robert Card, the gunman responsible for the horrific events, took the lives of eight individuals at the bowling alley before continuing his rampage at a nearby bar, where he killed 10 more people before taking his own life. The emotional toll of such an event lingers for survivors and onlookers alike, with Samantha Juray acknowledging the profound impact it has had on her. Despite the lingering trauma, the Jurays felt compelled to move forward, buoyed by the overwhelming support of the Lewiston community.
The reopening of the bowling alley was met with a mix of emotions, as patrons who had experienced the tragedy firsthand attended the event. Among them was Colin, who was present on the fateful night of the mass shooting. Accompanied by his parents, he expressed gratitude for the opportunity to celebrate the lives lost and embrace the symbolic rebirth of Just-In-Time Recreation.
Employee Tom Giberti, hailed as a hero for his actions during the shooting, reflected on the community’s outpouring of support and excitement for the venue’s reopening. Despite sustaining injuries while protecting children during the attack, Giberti remains resilient and grateful for the chance to witness the community’s resilience in the face of tragedy.
The reopening ceremony was a poignant moment for the Lewiston community, with Mayor Sheline commending the town’s unity and spirit. The symbolic act of reopening the bowling alley serves as a beacon of hope and resilience, demonstrating that Lewiston will not be deterred by adversity. As the community comes together to heal and rebuild, the reopening of Just-In-Time Recreation symbolizes a new chapter of strength and solidarity in the face of tragedy.