I spent today with a crew from the NewsHour with Jim Lehrer as they talked with UMR researchers about the future of bridges (about everything from bridge ratings, improved tools for inspectors and how "plastic" can be used to retrofit ailing bridges and in new construction).

We even took a road trip to St. James, Mo., to see a bridge UMR researchers built without using any concrete. Then we took old Route 66 to see Devil's Elbow, built in 1923.

I learned a lot about corrosion, fatigue, the bridge inspection process and "plastic" bridges. You can too, by tuning into your local PBS station Friday night (Aug. 10). And if your air conditioner is working, I'll guarantee it'll be at least a cooler way to learn.