Chamber recognizes value of community service

A full slate of business people will be honored next month by the Grafton Area Chamber of Commerce during its annual meeting.

Matt Zipter of Shorewest Realtors will be honored as the Outstanding Businessperson; Kara Yearling, founder and owner of Kara Marie Boutique, as the Outstanding Young Professional and The Stillery as the Outstanding Business.

Chamber Executive Director Elizabeth Mueller said there’s a common thread running through the award winners — community involvement.

“They all have that spirit of giving back that is so great,” Mueller said.

So many nonprofit groups and clubs are struggling to find volunteers, she said.

“They all are struggling for people to step up and volunteer their time. This (spirit of volunteerism) is so nice to see.”

The award winners will be honored during the Chamber’s annual meeting at 5 p.m. Tuesday, May 5, at 13 North.

Zipter is being honored for his professional excellence, civic leadership and deep commitment to the community.

In his nomination letter, Josh Branham of Bank Five Nine praised Zipter’s service and leadership, saying that “what truly sets Matt apart is his consistent willingness to give back. Whether through professional advocacy, civic involvement or volunteer service, he demonstrates a strong sense of responsibility and pride in his community. He leads by example and inspires others through his actions.”

Zipter, who has lived in Ozaukee County throughout his life, has an associate degree in  environmental and pollution control technology from Milwaukee Area Technical College and is a graduate of the Realtors Institute.

He spent the 1980s and 1990s working in residential construction, gaining hands-on experience in carpentry, masonry, roofing, landscaping and property management. From 2001 to 2012, he worked as an environmental consulting technician.

In 2012, Zipter joined Shorewest Real Estate. He has served as a president of the Ozaukee Realtors Association, is an active member of the Lakeshore Realtors Association and serves on the Wisconsin Realtors Association Public Policy Committee, advocating for improved housing affordability across the state.

He also serves on the Grafton Zoning Board of Appeals and the Grafton Tax Assessment Board of Review and is deeply involved with Celebrate Grafton, contributing his time and energy on various committees and playing a hands-on role in community events.

During the Giro d’Grafton, Zipter  assisted with setup, teardown and course safety, and he sponsors the Food Pavilion at the Holidaze Independence Celebration.

“Volunteering is a great way to support growth and quality of life in our community,” Zipter said. “It’s also fun and a fantastic way to meet new people and stay connected with friends.”

The Stillery is being honored for its commitment to community engagement, philanthropy and its positive impact on local families and students.

Since opening in Grafton three years ago, the restaurant has become a gathering place known for outstanding food, handcrafted cocktails and a welcoming, energetic atmosphere.

In his nomination letter, Grafton School Supt. Jeff Nelson  wrote, “While the dining experience provided is noteworthy, what truly distinguishes The Stillery is their proactive commitment to the local community. Their dedication to Grafton exemplifies the spirit of a truly ‘Outstanding Business.’”

Community involvement is a core value of the business, according to the Chamber, a value reflected in ongoing participation in Give Back Days, youth-centered fundraisers and partnerships with the Grafton School District, Celebrate Grafton and the Chamber.

The Stillery sponsors school events and regularly hosts “Dine to Donate” events, contributing a portion of proceeds to parent-teacher organizations, athletic programs and the Grafton Music and Theater Boosters. Last fall, the restaurant hosted the Battle of the Claws competition between Grafton’s two elementary schools, providing not only the venue but also staffing and organizational support.

“The nomination from our superintendent just proves we are making a difference in our children’s futures,” The Stillery team said in a statement. “Keeping our staff and children involved in community events shows the importance of giving back. Every little bit helps encourage kids to reach their goals, and the support we receive from parents and families has been incredible.”

Yearling was named Outstanding Young Professional in recognition of her entrepreneurial leadership, community involvement and positive impact on downtown Grafton.

“She’s really taken a leadership role in our downtown business association,” Mueller said.

Yearling started her company 16 years ago, creating an online brand with a loyal and engaged following before opening her first brick-and-mortar storefront in downtown Grafton in 2024.

She is widely recognized for her dedication to the community. She actively supports neighboring businesses, collaborates on events through the Grafton Downtown Business Association, partners with organizations such as Mel’s Charities and has contributed more than $15,000 to support local causes in the two years since opening her storefront. Her involvement has helped strengthen connections, increase foot traffic and enhance the overall vibrancy of downtown Grafton, according to the Chamber.