The Weyburn Performing Arts Centre Society is making a second attempt to secure grant funding through the provincial government's Associated Entities Fund program, which disburses profits from casino operations.

Society president Dave Craigen said the group was turned down the first time they applied for this grant, but was notified there are new funds available for grants.

"We're negotiating with them on some of the finer points," said Craigen.

There have been contacts and discussions held with private foundations as well, but Craigen said most of the foundations want to see involvement by the provincial and/or federal governments before they will kick in funding assistance.

The society is hoping to get enough interest to build a new performing arts centre at the Weyburn Comprehensive School, as part of the extensive renovations going on for the merger with Southeast Regional College. The province has seed money available as part of the renovations to replace the old band room, but the money has been set aside for the time being to be put towards a centre should the society be successful in its fund-raising efforts.

Approval was given on Monday night for the performing arts centre society to use the Comp gymnasium again for the White Night celebration on New Year's Eve.

The organizing efforts are starting a lot earlier this year than for the first edition of the event last year to allow for more volunteer assistance.

"Last year was organized strictly by us; this year we're inviting the churches and service clubs to join us and make it bigger and better. We were swamped last year, although some people did come forward to volunteer," said Craigen, adding there were many positive comments about the alcohol-free family-oriented celebration last year.

Different groups will be asked to be in charge of various aspects of the event, such as running the video room, or board games room.

"It's not so much a fund-raiser for us, but more to promote the work we're still doing, and to let people know we're still here," he added.

The society will hold its annual general meeting on Wednesday, Oct. 25, in the Comp School library, as part of its requirements as a non-profit organization. An audited financial statement will be provided, along with an update on what fund-raising and other efforts have been made in the past year. An election of officers will also be held for the society's board of directors.