**Huntington community members took part in a fundraiser honoring the memory 12-year-old Ryan John Weiss, who lost his life in a sailing lesson accident last month.**

The Huntington community rallied on Aug. 16 to host a fundraiser in memory of 12-year-old Greenlawn boy Ryan John Weiss, who died after a tragic sailing lesson accident last month.

The fundraiser, which raised over $7,000 for the Weiss family and drew around 150 people, was hosted at Sand City Brewery Co. in Northport Village.

All proceeds from the fundraiser will be donated to the Weiss family.

Forty local businesses from across Commack, Northport, Huntington and Kings Park donated items to be raffled off during the event, according to fundraiser organizers. Businesses that participated included Northport-based Copenhagen Bakery, John W. Engeman Theater and The Ritz Café; Huntington-based Bottles & Cases in Huntington; and Huntington Station-based The Camp-Site Sport Shop.

Funds were raised through the $30 door price, which included food and open bar; and through 16 different raffles for baskets valued at over $200 each.

The fundraiser was a community effort, as many were affected by the tragic accident, according to fundraiser organizers.

The Weiss family sent a bouquet of flowers with a note and a photo of Ryan in a frame, thanking the community for their efforts and support.

- JANEE LAW