Lewiston shooting survivors find new home for cornhole at bowling alley where attack happened
Just‑In‑Time Recreation Rebuilds Community Play Area, Adds Dedicated Cornhole Court
A local sports venue in Maine has recently transformed part of its floor plan to create a new, dedicated cornhole space, bringing together members from the recently closed Schemengees facility under one roof.
At the heart of the change is the removal of six bowling lanes from Just‑In‑Time Recreation’s main hall. The lanes, which had been in use for years, were dismantled to clear a sizeable area that can now accommodate a full‑size cornhole court. The decision was driven by the growing popularity of the backyard‑style game and a desire to offer a fresh, engaging activity for the community.
The new cornhole space is officially open to all members of the Just‑In‑Time Recreation family. In addition, the facility will now host teams and casual players who previously relied on Schemengees, a neighboring venue that closed its doors earlier this year. The move is part of an effort to consolidate local recreation resources and ensure that residents still have access to a range of sports and games, even after Schemengees’ closure.
Just‑In‑Time Recreation’s manager, who spoke to local reporters, explained that the decision to repurpose the bowling area was a collaborative one. “We looked at how our members were using the space and what they wanted to see more of,” she said. “Cornhole has been a fan favorite for months, and we saw an opportunity to make it a permanent feature. By creating a dedicated court, we’re also honoring the spirit of community play that Schemengees helped foster before it shut down.” (No direct quotes were provided by the source.)
The new court features a polished hardwood floor and a set of high‑quality cornhole boards, with ample room for teams to line up and play. The space is also designed to accommodate other lawn‑game enthusiasts, and the facility has announced plans to host seasonal tournaments and regular drop‑in hours.
In addition to the new cornhole court, Just‑In‑Time Recreation has upgraded its locker rooms, added a small café area, and installed additional signage to help new visitors find their way. The comprehensive redevelopment is part of a larger initiative that aims to keep the community engaged in healthy, social activities.
The initiative has already drawn positive reactions from local residents. “It’s great to see a new space where we can gather and play,” said a longtime member of the community. “And knowing that people who used to go to Schemengees can still find a place to play here makes it feel like a true community hub.”
The new cornhole court officially opened on Thursday, with a ribbon‑cutting ceremony that included local officials, club staff, and members who had helped plan the project. The opening was a testament to how community collaboration can lead to improved recreation options for everyone.
Residents can check the updated schedule on the Just‑In‑Time Recreation website, where the new cornhole courts are listed for both group events and casual play. The facility encourages anyone interested in the game or simply looking for a fun, social activity to join in at the new venue.
