Tuesday, Venice city council members voted unanimously to give the Venice Circus Arts foundation six months to get organized. The group says they'll apply for grants, raise funds, and work with the city on fixing up the arena.

In six months they'll report back with their progress.

The city accepted bids recently for tearing down the 50-year-old former winter home of the Ringling Circus.

Among those trying to save it is the family of the world famous animal trainer Gunther Gebel-Williams. "I can go back forever just thinking of the things I've done there. To see it fading away is very heartbreaking for us and our family. Anything that we can do to be a part of bringing it back...we are very excited to do that," says Gunther's son, Mark Gebel.

Tuesday's decision came with a loud applause from supporters.

The foundation says they're confident they can now save the arena.