So the trip to the FLGS was a success! Met the store owner who I believe was rather happy to get a fellow Battletech player in the store.
The beginner game we played to knock the rust off, and there was a good bit or rust between the two of us, had the intended effect of drawing considerable attention. One game turned into a 2 vs 2 and some more teaching. Much fun was had by all and we are in the process of setting up a learn to play event Mid-August. The visibility brought out the nostalgia in many a patron, so hoping to ride the momentum and build a local Battletech community.
For the second game the Locust somehow turned into an absolute zombie. It ended up being the first to go down but not until after a considerable amount of effort. Let's just say that when the table erupts in laughter because you are glad to be hit in the head, you know you should use forced withdrawal next time ;D