I live in South Jersey as well. I should also mention that I work at a local (college) radio station. I play in a cover band down here as well.
I assume from your post that you are self managing your band. I am also assuming that you are taking the band you are in very seriously and trying to make a living making music. If this is the case, you should seriously consider finding an experienced and professional manager. A good manager will set up the promotion, work with the booking agents, and so on. This leave the band to concentrate on music. A good manager takes care of the details, uses his experience to give advice and counsel to a band- but knows the band is the one in charge and the final decision maker. I have found through the years, that good bands can't manage themselves. There are exceptions, of course. But for the most part....
Setting realistic expectations for your band is key. Especially when it comes to money. However, two dollars out of seven is unrealistic. You are getting ripped off. My band usually takes the entire door cover. Although it depends on the dive bar we are playing.
Setting expectations for people who work for you are key as well. For example, the sound man you hire had better have his act together. He should bring all of the equipment he needs and it should all work. You are paying him to make you good. He is not doing you a favor- unless he is a buddy doing you a favor
Samething for the promoter. He should be doing certain things for the money. A myspace posting is BS. Radio play, spots, interviews, flyers, short sets opening for other bands to generate buzz, merch coordination... that is what promoters and managers should be doing for YOU. YOU are providing a "service" that generates revenue that they get a percentage of.
Lastly, shop around. Use different promoters. Try new things. But, if you are self managing- GET A GOOD MANAGER. Not the drummers girlfriend. Not some 18 year old who also gets you weed. The real deal. It will cost you more, but it will be worth it.
Sorry for the rant. I deal with bands everyday who get screwed- wither by themselves or by some idiot "manager" or "promoter" who doesn't know what they are doing.
Check my myspace out and send along a CD if you have one... if it is any good I will spin it for ya!
Good luck.
