NEWS RELEASE -- The Pensacola Network celebrates its first year anniversary on Friday, July 25, as the monthly networking event connecting people and strengthening relationships in the African American community.

It highlights 12 months of ideas and actions around economic, community and cultural growth and development with business, government and community leaders. The event, which begins at 5 p.m. in historic Belmont DeVilliers, is free and open to the public with registration at www.pcolanetwork.com.

Started in July 2013 by businessman and engineer Lloyd Reshard, the networking has averaged 110 professional and community members who look forward to discussing ideas and taking action to grow their businesses, engage government and make communities stronger.

“It has been a success because people are expecting great information and ideas and that’s what they’re getting,” Reshard said.

Each month a special guest joins co-host Robin Reshard for a conversation for the web series, “The Pensacola Network Show,” to discuss their vision, opportunities and challenges of their sector.

This month’s guest is Malcolm Thomas, superintendent of the Escambia County School District. Past guests include Gulf Power Co. president Stan Connally, Escambia County Commissioner Lumon May, Escambia RESTORE Committee Chairperson Bentina Terry, McDonald’s franchise owner Pete Nowak, Sheriff David Morgan, Mayor Ashton Hayward, Baptist Hospital internist Dr. Cheryl Jeffries, UWF president Dr. Judy Bense, Studer Institute president Randy Hammer, PNJ publisher Terry Horne, and Gulf Coast Gulf Coast African American Chamber of Commerce executive director Nicole Dixon.

Lloyd Reshard understands the power of networking and the simple concept of showing

up.

“This Friday is the place to be to connect with people who are an amazing asset to the positive growth and development of our neighborhoods, city, county and state,” Reshard stated. “You’ll want to be there so that they can connect with you.”

What: Pensacola Network

When: Friday, July 25, 2014, 5 to 8 p.m.

Where: DeVilliers Square, 321 N. DeVilliers St.

Info: The event is free and open to the public with registration at www.pcolanetwork.com

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