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Boreal Community Media

Meet your Cook County neighbor: Katie Bissell

May 20, 2022 10:08PM ● By Editor
Submitted photos 

How did you "land" in Cook County?
I actually came to Grand Marais the first time on a bear hunting trip. I didn't end up seeing a bear that time, but I absolutely fell in love with the scenery and calmness of the north shore. Needless to say we started looking for property immediately and here we are 6 years later.

How has the adjustment been for you and your family?
Our family did really well with the transition up here. One thing that helped is that we already had some of the best friends we could ever ask for in the area before the big move. My 2 kids made friends in school very fast as well. As we continue to meet more people the friendships continue to grow as we become more involved in the community. 

Do you have any hobbies or pets that you would like to tell us about?
We have a little hobby farm on our property that includes 36 chickens, 2 goats, and 2 dogs. We've had 3 litters of puppies, so there are a few "grand puppies" of ours around town. Also, we have enjoyed supplying farm fresh eggs to neighbors and others in the community. 

With all of the great restaurants in the County, where is your favorite spot to go to when you don't feel like cooking?
My favorite restaurant has to be Skyport. The food, owners and staff are absolutely amazing!!! I might be a little partial to this location since I also work there as a bartender in my spare time.

For those who do not know you, you own your own tattoo business.  Tell us about how you got into that?
As for tattooing I started at age 18. I went to college to become a graphic designer but after my first semester I decided that profession wasn't for me, so I started a tattoo apprenticeship instead.  I took over my own business/shop in June '07 and have never turned back. It's my dream job in every possible way. 

What is the most unique tattoo you have done?  The most shocking tattoo request?  The most heartwarming tattoo that you have done?

My favorite tattoos to do are cover ups. I love the fact that I can turn an image that the client doesn't like I to something they love. The most unique tattoo I've done would have to be a Kool aid man jumping out of a guys armpit. (I've had many interesting requests for tattoos, but I'll keep things PG 13 and not list those off. Lol) The tattoos that really touch my heart are memorial tats. There has been many tears shed in my shop between myself and customers while stories are shared. 


What is your favorite part about life in Cook County?
My favorite part of living in Cook County is the natural beauty, and all the extracurricular things to do. We love the outdoors so many days consist of riding UTV, canoeing/kayaking, fishing/hunting, walking the beach looking for agates, hiking, having fires/camping, dirt bike races for my son and so much more!

What is the most relaxing way for you to spend a day off?
When it comes to relaxing I enjoy being outside with my animals. During the warmer months I spend a lot of time gardening and having fires with family and friends.  A drive down a backroad looking for wildlife is also at the top of my list. 

Are you a fan of snow?  How was this winter for you and your family with the record snowfall?
I absolutely love winter and snow! My family enjoys going out ice fishing, snowmobiling, and watching the drag races. I have to admit this last winter was a bit much, but I'll take the good with the bad.


If anyone wants to contact you about getting a tattoo, what is the best way for them to reach you?
If you're wanting to get a tattoo during the warmer months Facebook is the best way to contact me. If you don't have FB you can check out my website katstats.com to locate my phone number. (Texting is best because I'll respond back when I have a free second.)
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