FIXED.....took it to the LBS. A few things were addressed. Another bike shop that installed the cassette for me didnt torque it down so it was slightly loose. Hub had a bit of play in it. Hanger was not straight. After addressing all those issues, they adjusted it in no time and 20 minutes and $15 later, I am happy as a clam. Shifting is great up and down and the lever feel is actually much lighter than it was...Now back to my normal trails to test it out again.