looking for the right program

1 & 5-7 A RN is an RN is an RN. From what I understand, a BSN is only required for management at most hospitals. To get into a specialty, you may need general experience first (ie some hospitals may not hire you for ICU as a new grad) but as long as you have a license, you're good to go.
2-4. Talk to your local schools. You say your local schools aren't answering questions? Make sure you're talking to the nursing department. I've sometimes found that general councilors don't always have the information you need.

Since you have a bachelor's already, you may want to look into accelerated BSN programs. I've heard they only take a year; again, check with your local schools.