The opportunity of a lifetime: An overnight stay in jail and you don't even have to break the law to justify your visit! You do, however, have to make reservations at this particular "inn."

The Lincoln/Sagadahoc Jail Authority, which oversees the new Two Bridges Regional Jail, due to open soon in Wiscasset, has made an unusual offer: For $25, area residents can spend the night of October 28 in jail, and help raise money for P.O.S.T.C.A.R.D. (Police Officers Striving To Create And Reinforce Dreams), based in Winthrop, which provides mentoring for fifth and sixth graders.

Of course, if you've never been in jail, you may find it difficult to compare your overnight stay with the real thing; there will be music, movies, and raffles. Your "night out" - or should we say "in" - begins at 5 o'clock. Do you get to eat, or is it "go directly to bed without any supper?" Is it O.K. to use your cell phone, and keep in touch with your friends? How about TV? If you're less than a model prisoner, do you have to spend the night in isolation?

Nobody has indicated whether or not you have to stay in your cell all the time, or if you can wander at leisure. In fact, they haven't even said if you can simply say "I'd like to go home now," walk through the front door and head for your more comfortable bed at home. (Oops, I just discovered that you can, indeed, provide "bail money" and leave early if you change your mind.)

The offer of a night in jail is probably going to get a lot of takers, but precious few who have experienced the real thing are going be interested in spending the night there, even if it's only for fun - and a worthy cause.

Get your reservations in early - there are only 170 beds. For more information or a reservation form, call 882-4268, ext. 1228, or e-mail anngriffin@tbrj.org. Those of us who won't be there hope you have a nice stay, but don't like it so much that you hurry back.

- Mary Brewer