Meet your Cook County Neighbor: Zola Kolya
Jan 01, 2026 04:44AM ● By Editor
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A Boreal Community Media Exclusive - January 1, 2026
Zola is the new owner of the Grand Marais Subway as of January 1, 2026, having purchased the business from Mark and Tari Shackleton. Congratulations, Zola!
A Boreal Community Media Exclusive - January 1, 2026
Zola is the new owner of the Grand Marais Subway as of January 1, 2026, having purchased the business from Mark and Tari Shackleton. Congratulations, Zola!
How did you land in Cook County? What journey led you here?
What is your favorite part about living in Cook County?I was born and raised in Mongolia. I decided to join the Work and Travel program when I was in college and came to Cook County as one of the J-1 summer students 10 years ago. After that, I kept coming back and it feels like it was meant to be.
Definitely the beauty of nature and the kindness of people that live here. I love every part of it.
People may recognize you from seeing you at work at the Grand Marais Subway. What do you enjoy most about your job?The best part of my job is my co-workers. We can really come together as one and have fun while working hard. And of course, Mark and Tari Shackleton are the kindest people and the best bosses you could ask for.
What are some hobbies that you enjoy when you are not busy working?At this moment, I love spending time with my family. My husband, Shawn Hackett, is amazing and we just had a baby so everything we do together is precious. Once our daughter gets a little bigger, we are planning on spending more time sightseeing.
What is a fun fact about you that many may not know?
I love dancing. I have been in many dance competitions since I was in kindergarten. Another odd or funny fact is I enjoy doing math and calculation.
Do you have any New Year's resolutions for 2026?Now that I am going to be managing Subway starting in 2026, it is going to be a big step in my life and honestly I just want to have a healthy balance of work and family time. I am always grateful for the loved ones around me and this big opportunity Mark and Tari Shackleton gave me.
Boreal Community Media has been featuring the"Meet your Cook County Neighbor" series for several years now. If you enjoy reading these and would like to nominate someone to be featured, please send us an email to [email protected]!
Boreal Community Media has been featuring the"Meet your Cook County Neighbor" series for several years now. If you enjoy reading these and would like to nominate someone to be featured, please send us an email to [email protected]!
