Tube Notes

By Mike Hughes
Gannett News Service

Tonight's Must-See

"American Experience: Transcontinental Railroad," 9 p.m., PBS. Even as the Civil War raged in the 1860s, people began the massive push to span the country with one railway. It was a bold effort, a huge plunge of muscle, metal and money. It also involved greed, corruption and wholesale bribery. For many Chinese and Irish immigrants it meant steady work.

For the American Indians it meant disease and starvation. Promoters turned it into a land grab. There were schemes, scams and wide-eyed idealists. It's a great story that's well-told.

Of Note

"Veritas: The Quest," 7 p.m., ABC. A teen (Ryan Merriman) feels abandoned. His mom, an archaeologist, disappeared, and his dad is usually gone. Then he learns why: His dad and colleagues are searching for great secrets to mankind's past while evading bad guys. This is the start of an ambitious series that's filled with action and awe.

"Bridezillas," 7 p.m., Fox. Sometimes, planning a wedding can be a lot of pressure. This hour follows nine New York women as they boldly plan their nuptials.

"The Practice," 8 p.m., ABC. This Emmy-winning courtroom drama moves to its new night. In the start of a two-parter, Alfre Woodard plays a Death Row inmate whose new appeal is based on schizophrenia.

"Joe Millionaire," 8 p.m., Fox. After more dating, the pseudo-millionaire must trim the field to three women.

"Miracles" premiere, 9 p.m., ABC. Skeet Ulrich stars as a guy who is supposed to investigate alleged miracles. As he keeps debunking them, however, he becomes disillusioned. Then he comes across a boy with startling power and a man who speaks of a "great event" in the future. The result is stylishly filmed and solidly acted with the kind of moody charm that suggests "The X-Files."