GROW Pasco returns with impactful breakout sessions
- LEO – Taylor Doe will give the keynote presentation at GROW Pasco 2026.
Doe’s presentation, “And Then Moments,” goes deeper into entrepreneurial stories than what we’re accustomed to hearing. It’s a nitty-gritty look at what goes into success.
Attendees can also pick up some pointers during 15 breakout sessions, including:
- Funding Forum with Michael Anselmo, Brad Owens and Rafael Lohner.
- Top 10 Sales Drivers with Tim Neilan.
- Factors that Impact a Loan Decision with Johannys Irizarry.
- Profit Optimization Made Simple with Joe Abreu.
- Build An Exit-Ready Business with Tee Gweena.
The sixth annual event takes place from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 19 at the Saint Leo University Wellness Center, 12338 Priory Circle, St. Leo.
Sponsorships are available. General admission costs $65.
Register in advance at pascoedc.com.
McDonald’s restaurants raise money for charity
- PETERSBURG – Locally owned and operated McDonald’s restaurants across Central Florida raised $453,691.97 this holiday season to support Ronald McDonald House Tampa Bay and Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Florida.
From September through November, 406 restaurants and 44 owner/operators collected donations through in-store Round Up and $1, $3, and $5 giving programs.
Customers contributed by rounding up purchases or donating through multiple payment options, including the McDonald’s app.
The donation will help support families with critically ill children by providing housing and services near hospitals.
GTE Financial named a top workplace
TAMPA – GTE Financial has been named one of America’s Best Workplaces for 2026 by Best Companies Group, in partnership with BridgeTower Media.
The national recognition highlights organizations with exceptional workplace culture and people-first practices. GTE Financial ranked No. 11 among large companies (250–999 employees).
“At GTE Financial, our employees are the foundation of everything we do,” said Brian Best, president and CEO of GTE Financial. “We believe that if we invest in our people, support their growth and foster a culture where they can thrive, our members and communities benefit directly.”
GTE Financial is a not-for-profit credit union serving members throughout the Tampa Bay region and beyond.
Achieva Credit Union hires chief lending officer
DUNEDIN – Achieva Credit Union has appointed David Germann as its new chief lending officer as the organization continues to expand lending programs across Florida.
Germann has more than 35 years of experience in consumer, business and real estate lending.
Prior to joining Achieva, Germann served as vice president of sales and marketing at Credit Union LIFT Fund, LLC, and previously held the role of chief lending officer at Credit Union of America.
“His track record of driving responsible growth, paired with his deep understanding of what members truly need, makes him the right leader to guide Achieva’s lending strategy into the future,” said Eric Jenkins, CEO of Achieva Credit Union. “Under Dave’s leadership, we’ll continue expanding access to credit, building innovative products, and helping more Floridians achieve their goals.”
