Puyallup Arts Downtown leaders were hopeful that their casual jazz fundraiser last Saturday would attract more people than the semi-formal galas they’ve had in years past.

It worked, organizers told me earlier this week.

While in years past the group has only had about 170 people come to their auction event, they had more like 220 to 230 come this year, said Judy White, the new chair of the organization.

Part of that is because this year they were able to book the Pioneer Park Pavilion, which can hold more people than the Activity Center where the event was held last year.

There was soul food, jazz and a lower ticket price. While White was reluctant to share what the group’s profits were from this year’s event, she said the group made money. Many years when the group has put on the semi-formal gala they’ve struggled just to break even, she said.

Arts Downtown is responsible for the outdoor art in Puyallup. There are several new pieces in and around Pioneer Park this year. Take a look when you’re in town.