Some of the Viewliners are getting really ratty and the PAs don't work! Perhaps this is why you didn't hear announcements?
As for the Diner Lite ( Cafe/ Diner Combo), you might have noticed that one person served as the host, waiter, chef,bus person, dishwasher and custodian??!!
Not having a flatop or a real stove, that limits what can be served to heating stuff in a convection oven!
Hopefully when the New Viewliners enter service the Card will get two Viewliner Sleepers and a Real Diner!
Otherwise the scenery is great, if only it could be run daily ( and to STL or even KCY) and the equipment improved as said, this could be a Unique Amtrak LD train like the Starlight and the Zephyr( scenery)!
I've enjoyed my trips on the Card, its especially great when Ocean View is in the consist East Bound!