I was in Alton today to cover the mishap with some barges and the Alton Belle Casino. The barges are in place just upriver from the casino and are, basically, there to act as a shield to protect the casino from any river debris, ice flow, runaway barges etc. Some of the lines snapped and the barges butted up against casino complex. The damage appears to be minimal. But the casino will remain closed until the barges are put back into place and secured.

The ice may create some problems on the river but it is also incredibly beautiful. The drive into Alton over the Clark Bridge was eye-opening. The chunks of ice covered the river and the fog was so thick on the water you could barely see the Alton riverfront at times. I noticed several people had parked on the Missouri side to check it out. Many were snapping photographs.

I know the river road that runs north from Alton up to Grafton has received many accolades for its beauty and designated a scenic highway. We usually think it's a road to travel during the summer months or during the autumn to check out the fall foliage. You might want to consider taking a winter trip on it before things warm up.

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