I spoke to soon about the kernel. A new kernel, computer reboot, router reboot, seems to do better for about a minute but then it starts all over again.
After more fiddling it appears using WPA, WEP, or even mac filtering with my wireless router causes very slow speeds on my linux box regardless of kernel.
I wonder if it has something to do with the 'advanced' netgear wireless settings.
But I think I am done fiddling for now as it is a PITA to mess with the wireless router when three wii systems, four computer systems and one printer are connected to it.
Who am I kidding, grab a bite to eat and see if I can disable all the 'advanced' features and try WPA again...
Downloading a iso at 1.26M/s is SSSOOOOO much faster than 64.2K/s