LEWISTON — Oct. 25 marks three years since the mass shooting in Lewiston, and several organizations are organizing events this month to bring the community together.
In 2023, a gunman shot and killed eight people and wounded three others at Just-In-Time Recreation. He then drove to Schemengees Bar & Grille, where he killed 10 more people and wounded 10 others.
One of the organizations hosting events is the Maine Resiliency Center, which was founded after the shooting to support those affected by it. Several organizations that support the deaf and hard-of-hearing community are also hosting events, as four of the people who were killed and several of the people who were injured were deaf.
The Maine Resiliency Center also has ongoing support groups and walk-in hours to support those affected by the shooting. More information about these events is on its website.
Here is a list of some of the events:
Community pumpkin carving
Hosted by: Maine Resiliency Center
What: Carve and paint pumpkins with the community
When: Oct. 17 from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: Outside Just-In-Time Recreation, 24 Mollison Way, Lewiston
American Sign Language interpretation available
Community Cornhole
Hosted by: Just-In-Time Recreation
What: An annual cornhole event created after the shooting
When: Oct. 24 at 12 p.m.
Where: Just-In-Time Recreation, 24 Mollison Way, Lewiston
Community planting
Hosted by: I Love You Gardens
What: Plant tulips and daffodils for someone you love
When: Oct. 25 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Where: Check in at Maine MILL, 1 Beech St., Lewiston
American Sign Language interpretation available
Candlelight vigil
Hosted by: Maine Association of the Deaf
What: Remember and reflect at a candlelight vigil for those who died and their families
When: Oct. 25 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Where: Simard-Payne Memorial Park, 46 Beech St., Lewiston
American Sign Language interpretation available