ON IVAN’S SIDE OF THE COIN, ad sales manager Eddie K. explained that the more well-respected businesses they could get involved in supporting their website, the easier it would become to entice other respected companies to fall in line. So it was paramount for IDPromotions.com to establish relationships with as many recognized company brands as possible, and in every professional field.

As far as Ivan’s personal salary was concerned, his goal was to pull in ten thousand dollars a month after taxes, which $180,000 a year would allow him to do. However, as a compromise, he would settle for $140,000 a year, or slightly more than eight thousand a month. Eight to ten thousand a month, after taxes, would be more than enough to cover all of his personal expenses, as well as fatten up his retirement plan.

IVAN MET UP with Thomas Jones at Carol’s Soul Food Restaurant that night, and they were both all smiles at their table.

Thomas shook his head and said, “I still can’t believe you got folks to pay twenty dollars a head to watch Monday Night Football on a big-screen TV over at Raymond’s Lounge. And now you got ’em doing the same shit with the playoffs.”

Ivan said, “It’s thirty dollars a head for the playoffs, including an all-you-can-eat buffet. But just look at it this way. How long have Americans been paying for bottled water now? These guys are all paying for the experience of being around a certain group and in a certain atmosphere, just like if you were going to the game. And if they don’t want that experience, then they stay home and watch it.”

Thomas chuckled. He said, “I’m only imagining now how much money you’re gonna make once you own the place.”

Ivan told him, “That’s what we’re here to talk about, right? Real estate.”

Thomas asked him, “Yeah, so what’s this big interest of yours in the university area?”

“That’s where most of my help comes from,” Ivan answered. “Both of my webmasters, three salespeople, blog writers, four party assistants, two photographers—they’re all San Diego State undergrads or grad students. And if I set up an office over there, I don’t have to worry about my interns needing transportation. They can all walk or ride their bikes to work.”

Thomas said, “But what about the mature people who end up working for you? They might want a more businesslike atmosphere.”

Ivan said, “The people I want to hire have to be versatile enough to fit into different crowds. I mean, we’re talking about a website and party promotions here.”

“So, how much are you paying these guys, if you don’t mind me asking?” Thomas questioned.