After Violent Attack, Jewelers Back in Business

He spent 10 days in intensive care at Mission Hospital . It was 10 days of reconstructive surgery, repairing bones in his face that were broken when Constantine tried to protect his wife, Rita, as their jewelry store was robbed.

Constantine, who asked that his last name not be used,  reopened this week and he said he feels stronger than ever.

"I feel stronger than previously, because we will continue doing what we must to protect ourselves," he said. "It feels really good."

Had he thought of leaving town?

"We won't go anywhere else," he said.

Three out of every four pieces of jewelry Constantine sells are something he made himself. And over the years, his loyal customers have come to know him and his wife.

Did the community care? The evidence was sitting there inside the store's drop box every day following the attack. He estimates more than 500 letters of support were sent from family, friends and customers, along with e-mails and voice mails.

Many of them asked what they could do to show their support. His answer was simple.

"By coming back, by being our customers again."