The Boothbay Region Health Center is hosting a healthy potluck benefit dinner at the Boothbay Fire House on Saturday, Dec. 1 from 5 to 7 p.m. Bring a healthy dish to share, or just come and enjoy others' contributions. Vote for the tastiest healthy dish. The winning cook will receive a $150 gift certificate to dine at Ports of Italy! Admission is $5 each. The proceeds will go to the Health Center's operating fund. The Boothbay Fire House is on Route 27 at 911 Wiscasset Rd., Boothbay. Come enjoy a healthy meal and pick up some ideas for your holiday cooking.

For the cooks among you, what do we mean by healthy? Think in terms of heart-healthy fare -- low in saturated fats and low in cholesterol. We welcome vegetarian, vegan, and fish and meat dishes. Dairy, not so much. Desserts can be sweet, but avoid chemical additives. Bring a list of ingredients, or better yet, your recipe, so community members can see what's involved in creating this dish. Recipes don't have to be original. You're welcome to use one from your favorite healthy cookbook or website. The judging will be done by the community members who actually eat the food. Everyone will get three votes to cast (first, second and third choices). Good luck!