Had to make an unexpected trip to Ontario, OR today. Saw the westbound Railex train, one GE leading about a dozen reefers. Can't imagine why they just didn't put empties on a manifest unless this is some sort of priority backhaul - or are they short of cars?

On way back, caught up with a westbound stack train led by 8218, 1989 and 5990. I don't recall the Rio Grande heritage unit making it to the Northwest often if at all. Train was all 20 and 40 foot import containers, so I am assuming it is bound for Seattle/Tacoma. Should have gotten to La Grande just after dark, should be going down Gorge tonight or early morning if fire at Cascade Locks doesn't close things down. Daylight run Portland to Seattle tomorrow?

UP seems to be running quite a few trains last few days. Even saw a light engine power move Friday, probably a couple mid-train soda ash helper sets going back to Nampa.