After taking a pandemic pause last year, the Blue Jean Ball returned Saturday to rave reviews.

The annual Community Educational Foundation fundraiser was modified for the times, of course. People wore masks walking around, but didn't have to wear masks when eating and drinking at the table. And the elaborately decorated tables were a little more spread out.

But the spirit of the event was the same.

"We didn't want anyone to think we weren't taking the virus seriously, and we were ready to turn on a dime, said Jody Acers, CEF executive director. "But we also knew people were craving this nig...