I just had to send my Nikon D50 into the Nikon Service center because of a spot on the CCD. I was surprised that a black spot (dust?) could get into the camera, but when I called their technical assistance hotline, they said it does happen, though usually they see it in cameras used to photograph rodeos! Maybe 5 kids, 6 cats, 1 dog, 3 guinea pigs, two rabbits a fish and a lizard constitute something on the order of a rodeo. Hmmm...
Anyway, Mike, just wanted to let you know that Nikon really has its act together. If you send in your camera for service (call the tech support first) they will send you an estimate for the repairs FIRST, for your approval. My repair took less than two weeks from the day I sent it out until I had it back in my hands.
If your camera is still under warranty (as mine was) all the better, but I assume you'd know that.
Good luck and hang in there. Good thing you're in Florida. If you had to be naked for ten weeks in Pennsylvania, you'd be in a world of hurt!
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