Of course, pulling new people in, you obviously expect newcomers (thought it seemed like, for the most part, the people who were there and some semblance of knowledge about gameplay mechanics). One thing, I should point out (and remember, this is not meant to be insulting), is that you should be a bit more approachable. I came up to you purposely not introducing myself to see how you would react. I actually talked a bit more than you did (granted, I talk more than most people lol). You didn't ask who I was, nor did you introduce yourself. The bad part about that is, how does that look to a newcomer? It makes them feel less comfortable, less invited. I walked in as if you expected me to know what was going on. Near the end of the night, when randoms came to see what was going on, I felt like they had to ask you "Oh hey, what's going on over here?" before you acknowledged them. Not like they played or participated or anything, but it would have been more encouraging if you said something like "Hey guys, we've got some setups for a fighting game called Melty Blood. You're welcome to join in and ask questions if you'd like." I mean, if you want to have the role of promoting the scene, you have to be willing to play the part. It's possible that you were just down from the disappointment of the showing (which you expressed), but you gotta keep up that enthusiasm if you really want to carry this thing. You can be in touch with as many people as you want, but you have to keep people hype if it's your scene. Scenes don't last if people don't care.
It was, however, the first session, so it can always be improved on. Just move on and make the best of the next one.
EDIT:
Please fucking move to the East Coast, your devotion and determination would fit right in here.
I'm halfway upset reading this thread, but fuck it keep doing your thing and don't let a fucking soul stop you.
What in this thread makes you mad, Chibi? I think it's just people being realistic. Even James knows that the NorCal scene has seen ups and downs to near nonexistence. Even so, people are giving him their thoughts on the matter instead of leaving him out to dry. I came late to his session and still paid to support both the arcade and his endeavor. There are people in NorCal, even just WC in general who do love Melty. We just understand the state that things are in and are letting him know what he's up against. I personally hope he succeeds, but a "You-can-do-it" attitude just doesn't cut it in a Capcom infested world. Better to give him feedback he can use for future planning than not say anything (at least that's my goal in posting in this thread). If I didn't think it was worth my time, I wouldn't have posted to begin with.