NEW PORT RICHEY, Fla.— GTE Financial celebrated the grand opening of its New Port Richey Community Financial Center, expanding its presence in Pasco County.
The new full-service center, located at 9746 Little Road, will replace GTE Financial’s former Hudson location, expanding access to convenient financial services for members and businesses throughout West Pasco County. Members can receive personalized support with everyday banking, lending, financial planning and education, all in one location.
To mark the opening, GTE hosted a community celebration from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. featuring a special appearance by Tampa Bay Lightning alumnus Daren Puppa. Guests had the opportunity to meet Puppa, take photos, have memorabilia signed and participate in street hockey. Guests who entered the GTE Power Play contest could also receive a Tampa Bay Lightning hat.
The celebration also featured free food and music, a Kids Zone with face painting, balloon artists and bounce houses, a Money Machine, surprises and giveaways. Guests who open a qualifying new GTE Financial account during the grand opening can also receive two tickets to Busch Gardens Howl-O-Scream, while supplies last.
“Pasco County continues to grow, and we want to make sure our physical locations are growing alongside the communities we serve,” said Channing D. Thornton, Managing Director of Retail Member Sales at GTE Financial. “Relocating to New Port Richey allows us to better serve existing members while creating greater access for individuals, families and businesses throughout the area.”
The center is led by Manager Matthew DeSalvo, who brings close to a decade of experience in financial services and leadership, supported by a long background in relationship-building and customer service.
“We’re excited about the opportunity to build even stronger relationships with the people who live and work in New Port Richey,” said Thornton. “Whether someone is buying their first home, starting a business, working toward a savings goal or simply looking for financial guidance, we want them to know they have a local team they can turn to. This grand opening is our chance to welcome the community in and show them what that looks like.”
