It's just like 'Monopoly,' only better

The Village of Lewiston has teamed up with the Sentinel to offer Lewiston businesses an opportunity to advertise all-year long.

Three business directory maps are under construction and will be placed in three strategic places along Center Street (likely outside of the Piper Law Office Welcome Center, somewhere in the middle of the retail district, and toward Water Street).

The giant "Monopoly"-like boards were the brainchild of Bill Geiben, the village's former mayor. Geiben tasked artist Michael LaDuca and design firm The Corporate Jesters to create a thorough listing of the businesses, restaurants, service organizations, landmarks, parks and historical highlights that dot the village.

"Lewiston is a destination site," Geiben said. "Artpark, the jet boats, the Freedom Trail, the Bicentennial (Peace) Garden, events, festivals -- Lewiston is a destination community. When people come here, they have no idea of the variety of shops, businesses and restaurants in the village."

So, in an attempt to educate visitors as to who is where and what is offered, Geiben set this project in motion.

"If you give people a little bit of guidance, they'll spend more time walking through the village," he said. 

Since Geiben is no longer on the Village Board, he has handed the directory map reins to Trustee Bruce Sutherland. The deputy mayor is currently overseeing project completion.

The directory maps, funded by advertising, should be completed this fall. Those interested in purchasing a spot on one of the boards can buy a listing for $50, a boxed ad for $200 or a guaranteed top-spot ad for $250. To place an order, contact the Sentinel at 773-7676 and ask for Vince or Skip. For more information, call the mayor's office at 754-8271.

The faceplate is changeable, and could be modified if needed. Ads will reflect 2011-12.