This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Arts & Entertainment

Maxwell's Hosts First 'More Then A Vote' Event

Unemployment issue addressed with the aid of local musical talent

 About a year ago, 38-year-old Jennifer Lampert and friends hosted an event called 'Barack n' Roll,' a music rally to raise awareness for voting. But Lampert soon realized too many Americans were losing concern and interest in politics right after the election.

"We are trying to get people to do more then flip that switch," Lampert said.

And new organization, More Than A Vote, is inspiring to do just that.

Find out what's happening in Hobokenwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

With the ultimate goal of hosting quarterly events to get people involved in political issues, More Then A Vote hosted it's first annual affair at Maxwell's Tuesday night called 'An American Music Rally For Jobs.'

At the door $10 donations were accepted, but not required for admission. Since the topic of this event was unemployment, More Than A Vote did not want to discourage anyone from attending, who may be low on cash at the moment. 

Find out what's happening in Hobokenwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Job advertisements from newspapers decorated the walls, and the low candlelight at each table set a hip mood. People began to take their seats around 8:30pm for the first musical act.

"I believe strongly in encouraging others to use their musical abilities to help the world," said Lampert. "Music is always a great support for causes." 

Bartender Todd Hershberger, 32, was happy to be a part of the movement.

"Music brings everyone together," Hershberger said. "I think it's a great way to raise awareness to certain issues that are important to a younger demographic." 

In addition to musical performances, two speakers took the stage between acts to tackle the unemployment issue. First up was 36-year-old Ellen Marcus, president of Marcus & Associates executive recruiters in New York.

"I don't sing or play music, and I've always been looking for a way to get involved," said Marcus, who jumped at the opportunity to speak at this event.

Lampert joined Marcus on stage for a Q&A session on advice for searching for jobs.

"It's the little things you need to change," said Marcus. "First, your facebook profile … set pictures of you going out with friends to private. If you can, delete them."

Marcus also said people need to be aware of their voicemail settings and make them more professional.

Consulting Psychologist Michael Bednarski spoke about the negative mental affects losing a job can have, and advice on how to be more positive during rough economic times.

"You're going to get depressed staring at your computer," Dr. Bednarski said. "If you get out there, things happen."

Aside from making connections, another helpful tip was to recreate yourself. Dr. Bednarski advised people to create a vocabulary for what you're about, and think about skills you have, want to develop and never want to use again. By assessing those qualities, people should be more comfortable during job interviews.

"In an interview, you can really talk about yourself," said Bednarski.

Although the event had a deeper meaning, many show-goers came mostly for the musical performances.

"I'm just here to see some of the local talent," said Jessica Schewrer, a 36-year-old teacher in Jersey City.

Performer Dave Calamoneri, one of the organizers of the group, highlighted the fact that music is a great way to make a statement.

"People can be a part of the movement without realizing the work," said Calamoneri. "It's the sugar that makes the medicine go down." 

In addition to Lampert's and Calamoneri's vocal performances, other musicians showcased were Julian Peterson and Jeremy Beck.

Hoboken resident John Seymour, 41, enjoyed the show.

"I think it's a great event," Seymour said. "The economy is not going to turn around without jobs." 

All proceeds from the donations at this event will be put towards the next quarterly event. More Than A Vote will be addressing the concerns and solutions for the environment around Earth Day in April. For more information, visit www.morethanavote.com.  

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?