Justin and Samantha Juray, owners of a Maine bowling alley that was the site of a mass shooting last October, faced a difficult decision about whether to reopen the venue. After much contemplation, they ultimately decided to go ahead with reopening, giving the location a complete transformation. Maine’s governor, Janet Mills, plans to speak at the reopening ceremony, showing support for the Jurays and the community as they move forward from the tragedy.
The Jurays’ bowling alley in Lewiston underwent a complete makeover, with bright paint, new floors, and inspiring images at each lane. The decision to reopen did not come easily, especially for Samantha Juray, who was emotional when recalling the events of the shooting. Despite initial hesitations and negative feedback, the overwhelming support from the community encouraged them to reopen. They decided to maintain the same name, Just-In-Time Recreation, reflecting Justin’s name and the timing of their purchase of the venue.
In the aftermath of mass shootings, different communities take varied approaches to moving forward. Barbara Poma, the former owner of the Pulse nightclub in Florida where 49 people were killed, emphasized the emotional impact and critical business decisions that need to be made after such tragedies. Similarly, other locations affected by mass violence have made decisions about reopening or memorializing the sites of the incidents. In Lewiston, the community rallied behind the Jurays, showing support and excitement for the reopening of the bowling alley.
The bowling alley staff, including longtime employee Tom Giberti, who saved several children during the shooting, are eager to return to work and welcome customers back to the venue. The makeover includes tributes to the victims, such as a table with pictures of those who died at the bowling alley and bowling pins with the names of all 18 shooting victims. The staff members who survived are ready to serve customers again, and the Jurays are looking forward to seeing familiar faces and creating a new normal after the tragic events.
The reopening of the bowling alley is a symbolic gesture of resilience and community support in the face of tragedy. The transformation of the venue, with new features and tributes, represents a fresh start for the Jurays and a way for the community to come together and heal. The presence of Maine’s governor at the ceremony underscores the significance of reopening and moving forward after a devastating incident. Despite the emotional challenges, the Jurays are determined to honor the memories of the victims while creating a welcoming space for patrons to enjoy bowling once again.
As the community prepares for the reopening of the bowling alley, there is a sense of anticipation and emotional readiness for the event. The staff, customers, and supporters are eager to see the venue come back to life and restore a sense of normalcy after the tragedy. With the support of the community, the Jurays are moving forward with strength and determination, showing that despite the challenges they have faced, they are ready to rebuild and create a space where memories can be made and shared once again.
