What does a new roof have to do with having a good dinner out? Plenty, when you are talking about the Opera House. On Wednesday, January 30, the Russell House Restaurant in Boothbay Harbor will be serving up its usual fine luncheon and dinner fare with a generous twist. A portion of all proceeds from restaurant that day will be directed towards the New Roof Fund at the Opera House. Whether stopping in for lunch, or dinner, or just for an after-work drink with friends, everyone who visits the Russell House on January 30th will be helping the Opera House while dining in a lovely setting.

The historic building in downtown Boothbay Harbor is long overdue for a new roof, as well as an exterior paint job. Before either job can begin, the board of directors must secure funding for these projects and the proceeds from the special day of dining at the Russell House will be directed towards the effort.

Restaurant owner Scott Larson offered, "Corinne and I have a deep interest in supporting the community's non-profits and by donating the proceeds from lunch, dinner and beverage sales to the Opera House, we know we are helping restore a great old building in town. Whether you are a regular Russell House patron, or a first time visitor, we look forward to welcoming everyone on the 30th. We're going to have fun with this."

In addition to helping fund the roof and paint project, all guests at the restaurant that day will receive 20 percent off discount coupons for upcoming Opera House shows. Upcoming shows include the Novel Jazz Septet on February 2 playing Ellington and Strayhorn, the Old Time Opry country and bluegrass show on February 9, the Bob Mitchell Picture Show on February 13, J. Geils on February 16, and an evening of cabaret with Broadway actor Michael-Leon Wooley on February 29.

The Russell House opens at 11:30 a.m. that day and Larson says they will stay open "until the last hungry and thirsty guest has been served that evening." Reservations are suggested, call the restaurant at 633-2722.