Organizers of this weekend’s fundraiser for Renny McNaughton – a local Greenville man diagnosed with stomach cancer – are calling the event a huge success, with an estimated 700 people attending at the Butler County Fairgrounds on Saturday.

The fundraiser kicked off a 2 p.m. and lasted well into the evening with a variety of musical acts performing, including – among others – Kaoss, Night Moves, Joe Wright, the Rick McNaughton Band, and even the honoree McNaughton himself, who joined Wright on the stage with his guitar as the event was coming to a close.

“Renny did get up and play and sing,” said one of the fundraiser’s organizers Donna Acree. “Which of course we all enjoyed every minute of it.”

Acree thanked everyone who was involved in making it a special night for McNaughton.

“Everything went excellent this weekend,” she said. “I don’t think I have ever seen a community pull together like they did for Renny and (wife) Brandee. It was, and still is, amazing. I think everyone had a great time, even with it being so hot we still had the greatest turn out. Words can not express how well everyone pulled together.”

Acree said approximately $25,000 was raised, money which will be given to McNaughton and his family. Along with the $20 per person cover charge at the gate, organizers also offered food, T-shirts and drink huggers for sale.

“Renny and Brandee both are wonderful people and we love them dearly,” said Acree.

Acree said donations are still being accepted on behalf of McNaughton and a special account has been set up on his behalf at the Butler County Bank.

If you would like to still give donations you can deposit them in The Renny McNaughton Benefit Fund at Butler County Bank or call Acree (334-617-2337) for mailing instructions.