This "shutter issue" was not an issue with the shutter but with the placement of (IIRC) part of the AF system. It caused shading in extreme lighting conditions. This was not an actual issue with the shutter mechanism.
With that said, I'm with those who stated that the excess dust you cleaned this morning could likely be shutter bits from whatever failed. Whatever you do, do not mention that you cleaned the sensor this morning.
To initiate service go here... Nikon Service and Repair
Thanks Jake. I did not mention anything other than describing the problem. I already filled out the online service order and will be shipping it off as soon as the UPS store opens either Monday or Tuesday.
I hope that this is just an isolated incident and no one here will be affected by this. The only thing I'm mad about is that crap like this always happens when you actually need the thing.
I was sooo looking forward to the M&G in Florida. I'll get to shoot birds that are not found here in TN and birds that are easy to get close to.
Oh well, at least I'll meet some folks from the forum and still shoot my D7100 with the 200-500 attached.