After a gunman’s rampage at Just-In-Time Recreation in Lewiston, Maine, left several dead, the owners, Justin and Samantha Juray, contemplated the future of their beloved bowling alley. They initially struggled with guilt and fear, uncertain of how to keep patrons safe. However, they ultimately decided to reopen the business to honor the lives lost in the tragedy. The couple felt a responsibility to continue the legacy of Bob Violette, a youth league coach who was killed in the shooting, and decided to reopen the bowling alley on May 3.
The night of the shooting, Justin and Samantha Juray were at the bowling alley when the gunman, Robert Card, opened fire before proceeding to a nearby bar and killing more people. The shooting spree prompted a two-day manhunt that ended with Card’s suicide. The bowling alley was the site of a youth league practice when the shooting occurred, leading to chaotic and horrific scenes. However, the Jurays are committed to revitalizing the establishment, focusing on renovations and improvements to create a safe and inviting atmosphere for their patrons.
Despite the trauma and loss experienced during the shooting, the Jurays are determined to move forward and rebuild Just-In-Time Recreation. They are deeply saddened by the victims who lost their lives and feel a sense of duty to create a safe space for their community to enjoy once again. The reopening of the bowling alley is seen as a step towards healing and honoring the memories of those who were killed. The Jurays express their desire to welcome back their patrons and restore a sense of normalcy to the community.
The reopening of Just-In-Time Recreation is also seen as an opportunity to support the families of the victims and preserve their legacies. The Violettes, adult children of the slain couple, Bob and Lucy Violette, have returned to Maine to establish a bowling foundation in memory of their parents. This foundation aims to support children and honor the impact that Bob Violette had on the community through his dedication to coaching youth leagues. By reopening the bowling alley, the Jurays hope to contribute to the healing process and honor the memories of those who were lost.
In the aftermath of the shooting, an independent commission has investigated the response to the tragedy, raising questions about the actions taken by law enforcement and the military. Additionally, a state lawmaker has proposed a “red flag” law to allow family members to petition for the confiscation of firearms from individuals in psychiatric crisis. While these legislative debates continue, the Jurays are focused on rebuilding and reviving Just-In-Time Recreation, prioritizing renovations over strict security measures to maintain a family-friendly environment.
As Just-In-Time Recreation prepares to reopen its doors, the Jurays are looking ahead with hope and determination. They view the bowling alley as a place of healing and community connection, where families and friends can come together to enjoy a shared passion. Despite the challenges they have faced, the Jurays remain committed to honoring the memories of the victims, creating a safe space for their patrons, and moving forward with resilience and strength.
