The keys on my keyboard are giving me unusual CharaCters.
The C button presents a Capital C. The right Shift Key
gives Capital C's also. The Shift f gives me nothing. Same
for several other keys. HP says they don't have a fix and
want to have me reCOnfigure the PC. Anyone have any better
ideas?

Backup all your data, email settings etc. Use Files and Settings Transferto make sure all your email, passwords etc are saved

Take the Notebook to HP and get them to provide a properly functioning unit.