You didn't mention how recent... If it's > 1 year, I'd go for GE. If the $100 isn't a big deal to you, or you can get a credit card / bank to pay for the $100 app fee, go for it anyway.

As for everyone, declare, declare, declare! Even if you think it's alright, declare it. **Especially if you've got GE/Nexus.** Short of narcotics, you're not going to be punished for bringing a naughty item in as long as you've declared it. They may confiscate it, but they certainly won't do anything negative as long as you're up-front about it.

During all of the GE interviews I've been privy to in FLL, LAX, TPA, MCO, West Palm, the CPB officers made it clear that CPB being able to trust you was their highest priority.