Those on hand for the debut of the New Jersey Hall of Fame’s Entertainment and Learning Center in East Rutherford included Gov. Phil Murphy, First Lady Tammy Murphy, elected officials and other dignitaries such as The Hampshire Cos. Chairman Jon F. Hanson, who also chairs the Hall of Fame. — Courtesy: New Jersey Hall of Fame
By Joshua Burd
The New Jersey Hall of Fame has unveiled its new 10,000-square-foot Entertainment and Learning Center at American Dream in East Rutherford, providing a permanent home for inductees and a new addition to the sprawling retail and experience destination.
Touting the facility as the first of its kind in the country, the organization welcomed Gov. Phil Murphy, First Lady Tammy Murphy and other dignitaries on Tuesday to debut the space. That paves the way for the center to open to the public on June 28, providing an up-close look at some of the state’s most iconic figures.
“We are incredibly excited that America’s first state-focused entertainment and learning center will be right here in the Garden State,” Gov. Murphy said. “Located at American Dream, the space will embrace our rich history and celebrate the achievements of over 230 outstanding New Jerseyans. This center will serve as a testament to our one-of-a-kind entertainment culture and supply knowledge and inspiration for generations to come.”
SLIDESHOW: The New Jersey Hall of Fame’s Entertainment and Learning Center
The Walsh Co. served as the owner’s representative for the project.
According to a news release, the facility has modern exhibits such as a simulated space ride called “Fly Me to the Moon,” where visitors can experience the thrill of space travel, according to a news release. There’s also a karaoke stage where they can sing alongside holograms of Gloria Gaynor, Wyclef Jean, Frankie Valli and other musical legends with deep ties to the state.
Additionally, visitors can interview holograms of Danny DeVito, Jason Alexander, Connie Chung, Laurie Hernandez and other notable Jersey greats in the “Late Night Jersey” Television Studio.
“Through education and entertainment, we are inspiring people to realize their dreams by becoming their best,” said Jon F. Hanson, the revered developer and founder of The Hampshire Cos. in Morristown, who chairs the New Jersey Hall of Fame. “So, there’s no better place to be than here at American Dream!”
Those on hand for the ceremony included supporters, inductees and other elected officials.
“The state of New Jersey boasts a rich history full of iconic moments and legendary heroes, which will now be celebrated for the world to see at American Dream,” said Don Ghermezian, CEO of American Dream. “We are excited to inspire our guests with leading entertainers, athletes, and influential individuals from the arts, education, science and public service sectors at this one-of-a-kind Entertainment and Learning Center.”
New Jersey Hall of Fame President Steve Edwards added: “The soul of the New Jersey Hall of Fame mission is based on the concept of Areté, ancient Greek wisdom that means the act of actualizing one’s highest and best sense of self, with a moral excellence of character and for the greater good. Our inductees have indeed realized their Areté, and are heroes who inspire others to do the same.”
