Kim’s Barrel Inn owner honored by Wisconsin Tavern League
By Brandi Makuski
STEVENS POINT – After more than three decades of leadership, service, and advocacy in Wisconsin’s tavern industry, longtime Stevens Point business owner Kim Krayecki has been named the Tavern League of Wisconsin’s Member of the Year.
Krayecki, owner of Kim’s Barrel Inn, has been involved in the Portage County Tavern League since purchasing his bar in 1989. Over 36 years, he has served in nearly every capacity at the local and state levels, including six terms as president, six years as a state director, and 25 years as treasurer.
“I probably served almost every spot on the board, basically what I could,” Krayecki said. “I served six years on the state Tavern League board too.”
The Portage County Tavern League has long been recognized as a statewide leader in fundraising activities and state-authorized sales, such as foundation tickets and calendars. Krayecki has played a key role in that success, helping strengthen both the organization and its community connections.
In his nomination letter, Jim Billings, owner of Final Score, called Krayecki “a key component in the league’s local successes.”
“Kim’s overall abilities, contributions, sacrifices, and loyalty to Tavern League ideals make him the perfect candidate and choice for Member of the Year,” Billings wrote. “This is an award well deserved.”
Beyond his Tavern League service, Krayecki is a member of several civic and charitable groups, including the Knights of Columbus, Moose Family Center, Elks Club, Lions Club, Izaak Walton League, Tomorrow River Conservation Club, and ABATE of Wisconsin. He also serves on the Stevens Point Adult Softball Association board and the Crime Stoppers board.
Krayecki said the Tavern League serves as a “union” for bar owners statewide, advocating for responsible business practices and community safety.
“We kind of make sure we’re taking care of the industry,” he said. “That means making sure our customers are safe, not overserved, and that they get home safely through the SafeRide program. It’s also about the wellness part of it.”
That focus on well-being, Krayecki said, has taken on new meaning in recent years as he’s seen the toll mental health struggles can take on the community.
“I’ve had four customers take their own lives,” he said. “It’s amazing how many you don’t hear about. One guy shot himself in my parking lot about a year ago. Life just got too heavy for him.”
Krayecki said he’s become an advocate for suicide awareness and prevention, often donating to related causes and encouraging other tavern owners to look out for their patrons.
“I just try to help out however I can,” he said.