That was the problem! Somehow the linux-restricted-modules-2.6.20-generic package did not get upgraded to the 2.6.20-11 version.
Now that I installed the right restricted-modules package everything works again. I even got a nice "Restricted Package" applet on the gnome- panel warning me that the ipw3945 and fglrx drivers were not opensource and not supported. thanks for the help!! -- wireless driver ipw3945 stopped working from 2.6.20-9 up https://launchpad.net/bugs/92746 -- ubuntu-bugs mailing list ubuntu-bugs@lists.ubuntu.com https://lists.ubuntu.com/mailman/listinfo/ubuntu-bugs
