Celebrating the Oscars, Bay Ridge style

Hollywood? Fuggedaboutit! Walk the red carpet Brooklyn-style to celebrate the Oscars and honor prominent Bay Ridgeites.

On Sunday, February 22, the Bay Ridge Manor will be the site of Academy Awards Night, an evening that will include cocktails, dinner, and an Oscar viewing party and contest, all while honoring President of Merchants of Third Avenue Civic Improvement Association Robert Howe, all in the name of charity.

“Years ago, we did the Bay Ridge Oscars Academy Award Night. So we’re finally bringing it back this year,” said community activist Larry Morrish, who is helping organize the event. “[Merchants of Third Avenue Marketing Director] Chuck Otey and I will conduct interviews during the red carpet. There’s going to be prizes for certain tables.” Attendees will also be able to vote on who will win each award as they watch the Oscars on the venue’s big screen television.

All proceeds will go towards the St. Nicholas Home on Ovington Avenue. “The money will help renovate the entire home after 30 years,” Morrish said. “We do it because it’s a not-for-profit and more than half of the residents in the home are on SSI. It’s great charity to pick.”

Although there were several worthy candidates for the lifetime achievement award, Morrish explained why Howe received the honor. “We have plenty of good people in Bay Ridge,” Morrish said. “Bobby has been president of the merchants group for over 20 years and has shown great leadership. He’s always there for the community and recognition is long overdue.”

The event at the manor, 476 76^th Street, will begin at 7 p.m. with red carpet interviews and cocktail hour. Dinner, Academy Awards viewing and the lifetime achievement award ceremony will take place from 8 p.m.-12 a.m. Tickets are $100 per person. Attire is formal and black tie is optional. Checks should be made payable to the St. Nicholas Home. To RSVP, call Morrish at 917-836-3628.

“Just getting the word out is important. Tickets are going fast. We’re all excited about it,” said Morrish.