Thank you all for the thoughtful responses, encouragement, and advice! After the weekend I will write a synopsis of email and on-list advice. Many have asked for confidentiality so I will write a synopsis in my own words and not mention any names. Although I have taken the GRE the scores are now greater than 5 years old and no longer valid (I've been at this for awhile!). Scores were 580 verbal, 720 quantitative. Generally my strategy has been to write professors inquiring if they will be taking students and providing my resume and a one page letter describing my situation and interests as they relate to the professors research. I provide my old scores and offer to take the GRE again if I am being considered for a position. Invariably the responses are along the lines of "My lab is full and I will not be accepting new students". I think often times they actually do have room but don't want to be discouraging: a number of times they have posted openings shortly after the correspondence.
Again, I am very grateful for all the input. Thank you very much. -Sean
