New Jersey Hall of Fame Inducts Kelly Ripa, Connie Chung, Tommy James, Wyclef Jean and More

Wyclef Jean

At the New Jersey Hall of Fame induction ceremony Sunday night Wyclef Jean brought down the house with his acoustic rendition of the Bob Marley “No Woman No Cry.”

Tommy James and Patrizio,

Fellow inductee Tommy James got the crowd rocking on “Mony Mony.” James, is known for “Hanky Panky” and “I Think We’re Alone Now.”

The Hall of Fame, now in its ninth year, honors New Jerseyans past and present who have distinguished themselves in music, movies, books, business, sports and public service.

Jean’ father, brought the family to America from Haiti. “Don’t forget, this is what being an immigrant is about,” his father told him. This is what these United States is about. As long as you do something with pride, as long as you believe in it, and as long as you don’t break the law, it gives you an opportunity to be somebody.”

Connie Chung

Newswoman Connie Chung’s husband, newsman and talk show host Maury Povich, did the honors for his wife.

Mary Higgins Clark

Mary Higgins Clark, was inducted five years ago and in turn inducted her daughter Carol Sunday night.

Kelly Ripa and her Family

Kelly Ripa and her dad

Kelly Ripa’s father Joe, the Camden County Clerk, ushered in his daughter.

Steven Van Zandt

Tommy James was inducted by E Street Band member Steven Van Zandt who said “James has one of the greatest rock and roll voices of all time. He is a soulful cat.” J

Ray Liotta

Former heavyweight boxer Chuck Wepner, aka the Bayonne Bleeder, was reportedly the inspiration for “Rocky.”

The other members inducted into the 2016 class include Liotta, a Newark native and “Goodfellas” star; Carol Blazejowski, the Elizabeth Olympian and Basketball Hall of Famer; and Arthur Imperatore Sr., of Fort Lee, the founder and president of New York Waterway.