I can't thank you guys enough!!!
I went out and released the cable from the RD . I was able to go top to bottom back and forth using my hand with zero hitches on the cassette .
I pulled the new short piece of casing at the RD and noticed it was sticky. The end caps were tight. I opened them up enough for the cable to slide freely. (I suspect this was my trouble spot) I pulled the cable all the way out checking for tightness as I went . The new short piece from the shifter to the barrel was sticky at the end cap. I opened it up slightly.
Reassembled all the way. Double checking.
I had also thought about the shifter being indexed. So I clicked it all the way to where the chain would be on the 11 cog. Chain was on the 50 front and 11 rear.
Pulled the cable hand tight and secured.
Started pedaling while shifting and she shifted smoothly up and down the gear range many times.
Sweet harmony!
Super thanks for the help.