Shopping, dining and more. We at (201) Magazine are experts at recommending the best things to do in Bergen.
But you know who else is? Our readers. Whenever we celebrate the people who make Bergen County special -- whether in a story we write, a contest we organize or a photo we shoot -- we take the time to get to know them. And we ask questions!
This month, we asked: Who is your favorite local celebrity? Here's what they had to say.
John Travolta
Born in Englewood
He grew up in Englewood and dropped out of my high school (Dwight Morrow). And have you seen him dance in Grease and Saturday Night Fever? That's why he's my favorite! -- Lori Weisbart-Polson, Woodcliff Lake
Chris Rock
Lived in Alpine
Chris Rock can turn anything into comedy gold. He's hilarious in Grown Ups. With his over-the-top facial expressions and perfect timing, it's basically impossible not to laugh. -- Bobby Sulikowski, Carlstadt
James Gandolfini
Grew up in Park Ridge
I chose James Gandolfini because he lived so close to my town and it felt like I can bump into him any moment. His portrayal of Tony Soprano was incredibly authentic. Strong yet vulnerable, simple yet deeply complex. I've always appreciated the quiet humanity he brought to the role. -- Marina Katsnelson, Township of Washington
Robert Sean Leonard
Grew up in Ridgewood
Ever since seeing him in Dead Poets Society in 1989, then live on Broadway in the U.S. premiere of Tom Stoppard's Arcadia at Lincoln Center's Vivian Beaumont Theater in 1995, I've been a true-blue fan. He is an artist who cares deeply about the work and you can tell in every role. As an indie filmmaker, I hope to be blessedto work with him someday! -- Julie Korogodon, Ridgewood
Mary J. Blige
Knowing she spent time here in Bergen County and turned her life experiences into something powerful and healing has always stayed with me. I'm deeply inspired by artists who create from truth -- there's something incredibly brave about that. -- Ovi Paulter, Fair Lawn
Joe Jonas
Grew up in Wyckoff
I like Joe Jonas of the Jonas Brothers because he's a great singer. He's also a good actor in the Camp Rock movies, which are fun to watch with my kids. -- Fara McNeil, Ridgewood
Joram Mushinske is the art director for (201) Magazine. He writes monthly columns in (201) about local influencers and asks business owners to share their favorite things to do in Bergen County. Joram is a Ridgewood native and his work appears regularly in The Record and on NorthJersey.com. He also manages the @201magazine account on Instagram. Click here to have (201) Magazine delivered to your mailbox each month.