Today I headed back to the Verizon store. It is now apparent that no one really understands why our air card is behaving the way it is.....and more importantly no one has a clue how to fix it. So, we made the decision to dump the card and go with the Mifi as many of you suggested. I got it home a few hours ago and so far so good. We went with the 4510L because it has the antenna port. At least that gives us the ability to try and boost the signal with an external antenna if needed.
I didn't think we would ever get to this point as Bill seemed to be dead set against the Mifi unit. It wasn't till he called and talked to the folks at the 3G store that he finally gave in. The Mifi was always my first choice....I just like the convenience of the thing.
I also have to give Verizon a plug here. Throughout all my troubles they continued to work with me and try to solve my problems....for hours at a time. When I finally made the decision to switch to Mifi, they readily agreed...no fuss of any kind.