bitflipper
Or maybe I'll just try for a gig at Guitar Center. Surely there are no pre-qualifications required to work there! I won't mention any knowledge of musical gear on the application.

Are you kidding?  You've got no chance!  As soon as you start talking they'll realize you're too smart to work there.  

If you can pass the personality test, I would say try and score a job @ Walmart, Target, HomeDepot, or Lowes...   I have trouble with the questions like, "Do you smile and thank this person?"
 
Otherwise Target probably would have hired me by now.. 

I wish I had some advice, Dave. All I can say is hang in there, buddy, and I'm thinking about you. Xoxoxo

Oh yes, good luck with the job search, Bit.  

Bit, 
 
Write a cover letter to your resume as was mentioned earlier.  Really say what you want about yourself in it so that the reader gets a good idea of who you are and what you want/can do for their company.  I did this on my last job that I got - basically put it all on the line for this employer and he called me back the next day.  
 
Also, don't be shy of letter others critique your resume and cover.  
 
Network all over the place.  Employers will hire first those that are recommended by others they know and trust.  
 
Best of luck to you.  I know you will be successful Bit.
 
Rimshot
 

Just remember, if none of this works out, it's always good to have a Plan B.
 
So, repeat after me: "Would you like fries with that?"

Well that's at least the 2 of us looking for work Bit.
 
There's no advice I can give you, other than keep the faith! Something will turn up, it nearly always does.

Best of luck Bit..
 
 

I don't know if this will work for you, but you might want to look into consulting.  There are a number of consulting firms who employ people with a broad technical background.  While consulting may not be for everyone, it has a number of benefits. 
 
I've worked as a consultant for the last 20 years.  While some companies may not be ready to hire someone of your experience permanently, they may need you on a short term basis for some projects.  Some people see consulting as a temp job that they hope will become permanent.  I prefer consulting over a permanent position because I like to change environments. 
 
Anyway, I thought I'd throw that out there in case it helps.  Hope you find a new gig that meets your needs, Bit.  Let us know what you find.

Dave, sorry to hear about the financial woes, but glad you are recovering well from the surgery. Good luck with the job hunt.