I pulled the head on the side where the cylinder had little compression. I DID in fact have a bad head gasket, plain as day.

The thermostat also looks like it is well beyond its normal life. I will replace both sides. The cylinders on that side look absolutely beautiful. I am completely amazed. Thanks for the suggestions guys. I will update shortly.
any suggestions on where would be the best place to get parts for these things? Internet? Local guy? I live in the Orlando area and I've noticed lots of you guys that are in this area.
by the way, any ideas what might be the cause of the lack of spark?