The new year brings a sense of hope and determination to the Port O’Connor Sports Association. At the January 13 meeting, POCSA officers decided that 2012 is the year to make things happen since the organization secured their 501c3 non-profit status in late 2011. The group formed five years ago and has shown their dedication to the community with their popular annual fundraiser: POCSA BBQ Cook-Off on Memorial Day weekend.
Members met twice in January to discuss taking necessary steps forward to achieve the ultimate goal of creating a Sports Complex on five acres near the Community Center, land that has been allotted by the County for their project. At a meeting on January 20, the POCSA met with two people crucial to the forward motion of the project.
Bernie Klein, architect and Port O’Connor resident, is working with POCSA to form the master plan concept drawing for the Sports Complex. He is working with the group to incorporate the different aspects of the complex together, making the most of the land available. He will also help the group to decide how the construction can be done in phases. Once completed, POCSA will present the plans to the Calhoun County Commissioner’s Court for approval; then Phase 1 of the project can begin.
POCSA also invited Henry Pongratz, local grant writer, to assist with obtaining more funding for the project. He discussed the process of applying for grants and benefits of smaller foundation grants for specific projects as well as larger grants. He is working with the group to gather information needed for grant applications, such as budget information, the concept drawing, and documenting in-kind services – work and materials donated by individuals and companies.
The Port O’Connor Sports Association hopes to gain more momentum toward their goals by increasing group membership as the year progresses. The POCSA meets the third Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at POC Community Center. If you are interested in becoming involved in the POCSA, make plans to attend the next meeting on February 20, 2012 at 6:30 p.m.
