[Editor's note: Brooklyn - even just one half of it - is still a big place! Too big for just me to write about. So from time to time, BK Southie will be welcoming new writers. You've already seen a couple of posts from Peter, who day-blogs over at situatedlaundry. Today, please welcome Kerry, who will be writing predominately about the Bay Ridge/Dyker Heights neighborhoods.]

We all know Fall is quickly approaching when you hear the chatter going around about what you are being for Halloween… well in Bay Ridge the kick off to Halloween starts at the Raga-Muffin parade, when children and bands from all over the borough come to strut their most creative costumes. The Raga-Muffin parade this year falls on October 3rd, which means the 3rd Ave fair is October 4th!

Some closer events approaching us include The Wounded Warriors Benefit at the Leif Pub and The Great Irish Fair.

On Saturday, September 12th, 2:30pm till Midnight, come out to celebrate the Rockin For Our Troops event at The Leif Bar, 6725 5th Avenue.  This is a musical event to benefit the Wounded Warrior Project, The Metropolitan NYC USO, and Operation Gratitude. The day starts with a performance by a High School ROTC Drill Team, followed by some of the best music in Bay Ridge. Windsor Terrors, Canny Brothers, The Ridge, Pill Hill Radio, Our Back Pages, Prodigal Child, The Piranha Brothers.

Although in Coney Island, the Great Irish Fair brings a huge Bay Ridge crowd!  Join in on a bunch of Irish fun on  Saturday September 19th and Sunday September 20th at the Brooklyn Cyclone’s Keyspan Park in beautiful Coney Island for a two-day celebration of Irish heritage with great music, food, dancing, family activities and all around good craic.  Make sure to stop by Bay Ridge’s very own Yellow Hook’s tent.  You will catch the best of bagpipes, bands and beer galore!