I think you already know it and mentioned it, but definitely try to get in somewhere via friends or acquaintances, if possible.

I'm kind of in the same boat. I think it's just a matter of finding some organization where you will be recognized and appreciated for having a lot of experience. Some places simply don't understand that, and will only be looking for whether you have the specific skills required. They may not understand that you've seen tech fads arise, become skilled in them, and then watched them become unfashionable.