Annual Awards

Kim Granata-Clark

Kim Granata-Clark is known by those around her as someone who genuinely shows up for others. Chamber members and clients consistently describe her as thoughtful, caring, and generous with her time—someone who listens first and leads with a genuine desire to help. She’s often recognized for her patience, her willingness to share knowledge, and the way she supports people in both big and small ways. Whether volunteering, mentoring, or simply making connections, Kim is the kind of person people trust, appreciate, and are always glad to have in their corner. This year, Kim has volunteered so many times without hesitation. She serves as a Chamber Ambassador and is now leading her own committee coordinating our monthly “Coffee Connections” meetings. We are very thankful for her service to our Chamber!

Yuengling Draft Haus & Kitchen

Yuengling Draft Haus & Kitchen has become more than a venue within our community—it has become a true partner in bringing people together. From the moment they opened their doors to the Chamber, their team has consistently demonstrated a genuine commitment to connection, collaboration, and community-building. Time and again, Yuengling Draft Haus & Kitchen has stepped forward to host, support, and elevate Chamber initiatives. Whether welcoming our members for signature events, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for networking, or working behind the scenes to ensure every detail is right, their dedication reflects a shared belief in strengthening our local business community. What sets them apart is not just their space, but their spirit. They understand the importance of partnership and actively contribute to the success of others—making them a trusted and valued extension of the Chamber itself. Their willingness to invest time, resources, and energy into our mission has made a meaningful impact on our members and the broader Temple Terrace Uptown community. For these reasons and more, Yuengling Draft Haus & Kitchen exemplifies what it means to be a Chamber Champion—leading with hospitality, supporting with intention, and helping us create experiences that bring our community closer together.

Strong Over 50

Strong Over 50 empowers individuals to embrace strength, wellness, and vitality in every stage of life, especially beyond 50. By fostering community, promoting health education, and encouraging active lifestyles, the organization is redefining aging and helping individuals thrive with confidence and purpose. In its first year, Strong Over 50 welcomed 250 participants to its inaugural wellness event at Busch Gardens. The event quickly gained attention from major health organizations and generated significant interest from corporate and government organizations that are now supporting its work and helping get the 50+ community up and moving.

Radiant Hands

Caribbean American National Development Organization (CANDO)

The Caribbean American National Development Organization (CANDO) plays a vital role in uplifting and connecting the Caribbean American community through advocacy, cultural preservation, and economic empowerment. With a strong focus on education, workforce readiness, and business support, CANDO builds bridges across cultures while creating pathways for long-term success and unity in the Uptown Tampa area and beyond. CANDO is transforming lives across the Tampa Bay community by creating opportunities where they are needed most. Participants consistently describe its programs as life-changing—opening doors to new skills, new confidence, and new possibilities. As one student shared, “I feel pretty lucky because this is a new opportunity for me,” while another reflected on the resilience they gained: “If you make mistakes, you keep trying… until you get it right.” Through initiatives like its free robotics program, CANDO is not only teaching technical skills, but inspiring future innovators. Students speak to how robotics can help address worldwide problems, demonstrating the program’s ability to expand both knowledge and vision.

AquaSonic Car Wash

AquaSonic Car Wash delivers a high-quality, efficient, and environmentally conscious car care experience. With advanced technology, exceptional customer service, and a commitment to sustainability, AquaSonic has rapidly become a go-to destination for drivers seeking both convenience and excellence. From the moment customers drive up, it is clear that service is a priority. AquaSonic combines a polished customer experience with modern car-wash technology, helping establish the business as a strong new addition to the local community.

Clearset AI

Clearset AI is at the forefront of innovation, leveraging artificial intelligence to help businesses operate more efficiently and make smarter, data-driven decisions. Founded by Yasmine Grdiner, a forward-thinking technology leader with a passion for simplifying complex processes, Clearset AI blends cutting-edge expertise with real-world application. The company’s visionary approach and commitment to continuous advancement help position Clearset AI as a standout leader in today’s rapidly evolving technology landscape.

RI Automotive

Owner Collin Ettinene has built RI Automotive’s reputation on reliability, technical expertise, and unwavering customer trust. Under Collin’s leadership, the business has grown through a clear commitment to doing things the right way—prioritizing quality workmanship, transparent communication, and honest recommendations at every turn. Driven by a hands-on approach and a deep understanding of both vehicles and customer needs, Collin has created a service environment where clients feel confident, informed, and valued. This dedication to integrity and consistency has earned long-term customer loyalty and positioned RI Automotive as a go-to resource for dependable, high-quality automotive care. As the business continues to grow, RI Automotive remains grounded in the principles it was built on—trust, expertise, and relationships—ensuring every customer experience reflects the same level of care and professionalism that has defined its success from the start.

Gaspar’s Patio Bar and Grill

Gaspar’s Patio Bar and Grill is a long-standing Temple Terrace hospitality landmark. Known for its lively and welcoming atmosphere, it blends a classic neighborhood-bar feel with entertainment, dining, and social gathering spaces in one venue. Guests can enjoy indoor and outdoor seating, live music, karaoke, and a late-night social scene that makes Gaspar’s a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. With a focus on friendly service, comfort food, and community connection, Gaspar’s has built a reputation as a go-to spot for celebrations, casual nights out, and everyday gatherings. Owner Jimmy Ciaccio—also one of the 2026 Citizens of the Year—is known for welcoming guests in and treating them like family, reinforcing the community spirit that has helped make Gaspar’s a Temple Terrace staple.

Evie Larmond-Louden

Ms. Evie leads by service. She is the one who stays after the room has emptied, remembers every student and volunteer by name, and gives the same care to the smallest task as she does to the largest. She remains steady in uncertain moments, generous when others seek recognition, and unwavering in upholding the standards that protect those she serves. Those who work alongside her trust her, and those she serves know she carries their interests as her own. That combination is rare—and it is the truest measure of leadership. It is why people are always willing to step in and support her work, whether for the Tutorial Math Program, scholarship initiatives, Black History Annual Celebrations, the Annual Interfaith Service, or countless efforts that often go unseen. Time and again, others have recognized her judgment and character and called on her to lead. Each time, she has stepped forward with humility. Whether helping pack supplies for Jamaica after Hurricane Melissa or gathering essential items for college students, she never seeks a role or title, but consistently earns the respect that comes with service.

Lynn Werner

Lynn exemplifies servant leadership, having committed decades of her time, talents, and energy to the Temple Terrace community with unwavering commitment, exceptional leadership, and genuine compassion. She leads not for recognition, but from a deep belief in making a difference. Since joining the GFWC Temple Terrace Woman’s Club in 2008, Lynn has become a cornerstone of the organization, serving in numerous leadership roles and playing a vital part in major projects and community fundraisers. Her service also includes the Temple Terrace GFWC Junior Woman’s Club Friendship Club, Blue Umbrella Club, Red Hats, 10 years volunteering with Boy Scouts, 20 years as a Temple Terrace Uptown Chamber member, and 21 years with the Board of REALTORS®. Her community leadership has included service as President of the GFWC Temple Terrace Junior Woman’s Club, GFWC Florida Junior District Director, and active involvement with the Temple Terrace Uptown Chamber of Commerce, Honor Flight, Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful, Boy Scout Troop 120, Buddy Baseball, the Temple Terrace Arts Festival, and City of Temple Terrace committees. What sets Lynn apart is her humility, integrity, and heart for service. She quietly leads by example, mentors others, and inspires those around her to become engaged community leaders.

Jimmy Ciaccio

Jimmy Ciaccio consistently supports the Temple Terrace community in meaningful ways. From local schools to first responders and many organizations in between, he gives generously of his time and resources and demonstrates a deep commitment to the community. Through Gaspar’s Patio Bar and Grill, Jimmy has made space available for charitable events supporting King High School athletic teams, Temple Terrace GFWC initiatives, the Temple Terrace Arts Council, Buddy Baseball, the American Cancer Society, and the King High School Alumni Organization. His impact at King High School includes hands-on improvements across campus, from creating safer and more accessible waiting areas for student bus riders to supporting renovations of the teacher lounge, weight room, and baseball locker room. He has installed fencing around the baseball field, created space to recognize records, pressure washed the gym exterior, and supported landscaping improvements—consistently stepping in where help was needed most. Without hesitation, Jimmy has also provided food to individuals and families facing tragedy, serious illness, or loss. These acts, repeated time and again, reflect the compassion, generosity, and lasting community impact that define his character.