OK, went to another LBS and got an SRAM PC1 Nickel 1/8" chain for $16.

Laid out the old chain next to it and measured +2 links and separated the chain at that point. Mounted rear wheel and it was still too long by 2 links. Took out the 2 links and now the rear wheel is all the way back in the dropouts and rubbing on the rear reflector bolt. Light sprinkles of rain started to fall. (I was working outside)

Took off the rear reflector and tried to file down the bolt. Made a mess. Found another bolt. Put it all back together just as it started to pour.

No small adventure changing this cog.