The 35W bridge collapse was a shock to every one, including me. When we first heard reports in the newsroom everyone thought it was a mistake. We thought a piece of concrete fell or it was a construction accident. We had no idea a major interstate could collapse into the river. But, it didn't take long to figure out what really happened. And it didn't take long to jump into action covering the disaster.

Our news station is only about five minutes from the bridge, but that day it took more then an hour to get out there. Roads were closed and those still open were full of people. It seemed everyone in the Twin Cities was stuck in traffic or had come out to see what was happening. I spoke to so many people that nigh who told me they had either just crossed the bridge or were just about to cross it when it went down.

The Red Cross headquarters was the first stop. That's where children who were on the bus that was stuck on the bridge were taken. It was tough to watch their worried parents hurry into find their children. Watching them leave together was more of a relief.

Now a year later the shock has worn off, but it's still hard to believe a major interstate collapsed. It changed so many lives directly and indirectly. Many people are still dealing with the injuries they suffered that day. Families are still learning how to go on with out some loved ones. And people all over the world still worry whey they cross a questionable bridge.