ONONDAGA COUNTY, N.Y. -- A benefit was held in Liverpool on Sunday for a Syracuse resident suffering from ALS.

Barry Katz, 62, has suffered from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, better known as Lou Gehrig's disease for the past 13 years. Katz worked for the Post Standard for the better part of 26 years and his colleagues and friends hosted the event which featured a dinner buffet, live music and a raffle.

Organizers of the event said they felt it was important to show continued support for their friend and also to raise awareness in the community about the disease.

Marie Morelli, an Editorial Page Editor at the Post Standard said, “It makes people uncomfortable, I think to realize that there are people in our midst who are struggling with Lou Gehrig's Disease. They tend not to be in public and whatever we can do to raise awareness and to raise money for research and to help families I think is a good thing."

The proceeds from the benefit will go to the Katz family to help cover their expenses.