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CNN Live At Daybreak
Kidnapping Crisis in Iraq; Washington Preview; Hostage-Taking is New Security Problem in Iraq; Masters Moments
Aired April 12, 2004 - 06:30 ET
THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.
THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.
CAROL COSTELLO, CNN ANCHOR: There is a tentative cease-fire in place this morning, and the Iraqi Governing Council is still trying to broker a political deal to calm tensions in Fallujah. Three more Marines have died in the fight for Iraq. Here's the latest in our situation report.
The Marines were killed in fighting around Fallujah. The total number of American troops killed over there now stands at 664.
The kidnapping crisis in Iraq deepens with the abduction of seven Chinese nationals. Beijing is now asking Baghdad authorities to rescue those hostages. Three Japanese and two Arabs are also being held.
And the kidnapping of those three Japanese civilians is overshadowing Vice President Cheney's visit to Japan. Officials in Tokyo this morning say there is still no word on the captives' fate.
Let's talk a little more about that American being held hostage in Iraq. Thomas Hamill is a small town guy, and his neighbors are praying for him in Macon, Mississippi this morning.
(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)
COSTELLO (voice-over): Macon, Mississippi, the small town of about 2,500 people, are hoping one of their own comes home soon.
Thomas Hamill, a 43-year-old truck driver for Halliburton, was kidnapped Friday near Baghdad. His abductors demanded that U.S. forces withdraw from the Iraqi city of Fallujah by Sunday morning, but since then there has been no word on his fate.
Now, the town of Macon is dotted with yellow ribbons, a sign of hope their neighbor will return safely. The courthouse steps, serving as a public pulpit, as family and friends gathered Sunday night, trying to find solace and answers.
Hamill, a father of two, is from Macon. He's a former dairy farmer, who went to Iraq last September to work as a truck driver. His wife, Kelly (ph), runs the local 9-11 system. She says all she needs right now are prayers.
Halliburton, while not confirming details of the abduction, released a statement saying it was monitoring the situation. Until then, a small town waits for Tommy, as they call him, to come home.
(END VIDEOTAPE)
And the concern over hostages has even spread overseas. Vice President Dick Cheney is in Japan right now, meeting with the prime minister. And Cheney offered whatever assistance the U.S. could give.
A Wisconsin family is grieving over its sacrifice to Operation Iraqi Freedom. The Whitmore (ph) has lost one of three daughters serving with the Wisconsin National Guard in Iraq. Specialist Michelle Whitmore (ph) was killed on Friday. Her twin sister, Charity (ph), and Rachel Whitmore (ph) accompanied their sisters back home from Iraq. The family is appealing to the Pentagon now to allow the surviving sisters to stay at home.
Well, you know, this week kicked off in a lighthearted way in the nation's capital -- the egg roll, as you know, at the White House. And then, as you might expect, things turn political and gets serious.
CNN's Jennifer Davis joins us live from D.C. with a preview of the week ahead.
Good morning.
JENNIFER DAVIS, CNN CORRESPONDENT: Good morning, Carol.
Well, the war on terrorism will once again be a hot topic here in Washington, but this week the president will talk not only about ways to bring about peace in Iraq, but also to other parts of the Middle East.
(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)
DAVIS (voice-over): This week starts off on a roll, as one of the oldest White House traditions -- the annual Easter egg roll. Thousands of children will spend Monday morning searching for eggs on the South Lawn and visiting with the Easter bunny.
Tuesday, more tough questions as the 9/11 Commission begins a two-day hearing. Law enforcement and the intelligence community will be in the hot seat.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: There will be some new revelations. There will be some new twists and turns.
DAVIS: Attorney General John Ashcroft, CIA Director Robert Mueller, and their Clinton administration counterparts will be grilled on allegations that red tape and bureaucracy led to large-scale intelligence failures that put the country at risk.
SEN. BOB GRAHAM (D-FL), FORMER INTELLIGENCE CHAIRMAN: All of those organizations -- the Department of Justice, the FBI, the CIA -- have a share of the responsibility, and at one point or the other in this process could have interdicted the plot.
DAVIS: Wednesday, the president meets with Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon at the White House to talk about the war on terror and the Mideast peace process. And Friday, America's chief ally, British Prime Minister Tony Blair, will also meet with President Bush at the White House.
(END VIDEOTAPE)
But today, the president remains at his ranch in Crawford, Texas. He plans to meet with Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak. They, too, will discuss Mideast peace efforts and the war on terror -- Carol.
COSTELLO: Well, you have to wonder what the questions will be like before the 9/11 Commission. They'll probably be pretty darned explosive, won't they?
DAVIS: They will, and eye-opening, according to the commissioners. They expect to focus on a lot of things, most importantly this communication breakdown, they say, between the FBI and CIA.
They also, though, will, of course, talk about the memo that was declassified this weekend. And specifically those 70 FBI field investigations that the memo talked about, they want to know what happened in all of those inquiries.
COSTELLO: So, the Bush administration releases this 9/11 document over the Easter weekend holiday, and you have to come to come to some sort of conclusion that they did that to lessen the impact. But what has the fallout been?
DAVIS: Well, as you can expect, it's been -- the reaction has been along party lines. But it has been quiet, of course, because it's been the Easter weekend. So, that will be exhibit "A" once these hearings kick off -- this round kicks off tomorrow. It's two days' worth of hearings, but you can expect that a good part of the discussion will be about that memo.
COSTELLO: All right, Jennifer Davis live from D.C. this morning. We will get more details about that recently-declassified memo we've been talking about on "AMERICAN MORNING" at 8:00 Eastern. The guest will be James Woolsey, former CIA director.
And still to come on DAYBREAK, more on the security situation and the kidnappings in Iraq. Terrorism expert Kelly McCann will join us live.
And cashing in on his counterterrorism knowledge, the latest deal involving a book that put Richard Clarke on the map outside of Washington.
And then, a weekend for legends on the links -- a look at the Masters and the players who make the game of golf what it is for legions of fans.
We'll be right back.
(COMMERCIAL BREAK) COSTELLO: Hostage-taking, a traditional terror tactic, makes its way to Iraq. The latest victims: seven Chinese men abducted in Fallujah.
Joining us now, our terrorism expert, CNN contributor and retired Marine Corps Major Kelly McCann.
Good morning -- Kelly.
KELLY MCCANN, CNN CONTRIBUTOR: Hi, Carol.
COSTELLO: You know, many of these kidnappings are taking place on the road from Baghdad to Jordan. Why there?
MCCANN: It's very treacherous road. There are a lot of faux checkpoints. People that would dress as Iraqi police and set up checkpoints for the express purpose to basically carjack people, take what they've got, extort them. And I think that probably you're seeing on that side of the equation here just that more criminal than political or religious-motivated kidnappings, Carol.
COSTELLO: And is that why we're hearing of, like Chinese taken hostage? Because the Chinese don't have any role in Iraq -- that we know of at least.
MCCANN: No, but you've got to take the nationalities out of this. I mean, really the way that all of the people who are doing these kidnappings are looking at is if you're there, then obviously you're on some kind of contract with CPA. You're assisting in some way the reconstruction effort. And that's what they take exception to.
COSTELLO: The Chinese are asking authorities in Baghdad to rescue the Chinese hostages. Is that likely? Is it possible?
MCCANN: It's not likely. The military would not put assets against any rescue attempts, unless there was some political significance or unless they were on a very important list, other than if they wanted to make a statement. In other words, that they wanted to go and kill or capture kidnappers to make the point that we will come kill you if you continue to act this way. But I don't think that a rescue will be undertaken.
However, there are always back channel communications going on in these things, usually brokered by the local elders and then there is some kind of fiscal arrangement that's set up, and then they're released.
COSTELLO: Money. Money. Ransom money, in other words.
MCCANN: That's right.
COSTELLO: So, when Dick Cheney offers whatever help the U.S. can give to the Japanese prime minister, what is he talking about?
MCCANN: Well, I mean, obviously the Japanese are feeling for the first time what it feels like to be pressured as the result of military deployment. Remember, that this is the first, like, wartime deployment since World War II. So, this is kind of a new experience for them. So, they're struggling with that, and I'm sure that among the things he's going to offer is his advice.
COSTELLO: So, is this tactic going to work?
MCCANN: No. You know, that's the thing, Carol. It simply cannot work. I mean, if you think about it, terrorism, by trying to place bombs, kidnapping people, simply cannot be allowed to bend the will of a nation. Where would it end? I mean, if you set a precedent, it would be a very dangerous precedent. So, it simply won't work.
COSTELLO: So, why are people kidnapping people then? Why are terrorists continuing to do this if it doesn't work in some way?
MCCANN: Here we are talking about it. Here we are giving them huge coverage, and that's, in fact, what keeps it on front of the people's attention.
You know, the same desperation that I've heard this weekend, speaking to some journalists and different people asking that same question, really goes to the heart of why they do it. They want it to appear as unstable in the country. They want people to feel like there is no answer; that this will go on and on and on. When, in fact, I think you'll find the U.S. is going to stay the course, and they're not going anywhere.
COSTELLO: Kelly McCann joining us live this morning, thank you.
Your news, money, weather and sports. It is 6:43 Eastern Time. Here's what's all new this morning.
Three Marines killed west of Baghdad are the latest U.S. casualties in Iraq. Nineteen Americans have been killed there since Friday, bringing the death toll in the war to 664.
The fate of American hostage Thomas Hamill is unknown this morning. A deadline set by his captors in Iraq has passed.
In money news, another record for rising gas prices. A gallon of self-serve regular has gone up another couple of pennies over the past two weeks to $1.79.
In sports, broadcaster and former NFL kicker Pat Summerall is said to be in stable condition after receiving a liver transplant.
In culture, Mel Gibson's movie, "The Passion of the Christ," recaptures the No. 1 spot at the box office this Easter weekend.
(WEATHER BREAK)
COSTELLO: Those are the latest headlines for you.
It is the season to wear green, and you can bet one pro golfer is more than happy to follow the trend. A look back at an incredible Masters tournament when we come back.
And, double or nothing, one man's big bet. We'll tell you where the wheels stopped.
(COMMERCIAL BREAK)
COSTELLO: You know, it isn't often that a sporting event actually lives up to all of the hype, but this year's Masters did just that with a host of memorable moments from a new beginning to a bittersweet end.
CNN's Josie Burke has the pictures for you.
(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)
JOSIE BURKE, CNN CORRESPONDENT (voice-over): If the 68th Masters had a theme, it could be summed up in one word: farewell. The final good-bye was sweet. Phil Mickelson turned his back forever on life without a victory in a major.
PHIL MICKELSON, 2004 MASTERS CHAMPION: To have it be such a difficult journey to win my first major makes it that much more special.
BURKE: Before Mickelson's triumph, there was pain in Augusta, as Tom Watson bid farewell to his longtime caddy, Bruce Edwards. On the morning of day one, hours before teeing off, Watson learned Edwards had lost his battle with Lou Gehrig's disease.
TOM WATSON, 20TH MASTERS APPEARANCE: Damn this disease. Damn it! We're going to find a cure.
BURKE: Arnold Palmer's good-bye took time. Over two rounds, the fans who took pleasure in sharing in the joy that the king brought to Augusta every spring for half a century showed their appreciation. As always, Palmer, playing in his 50th consecutive and final Masters, returned the thanks.
ARNOLD PALMER, FOUR-TIME MASTERS CHAMPION: I'm through. I've had it. I'm done, cooked, washed up, finished -- whatever you want to say.
BURKE: The time was right to say his good-bye, Palmer insisted. And the newest man to don the green jacket could not have agreed more.
Josie Burke, CNN, Augusta, Georgia.
(END VIDEOTAPE)
COSTELLO: That's terrific.
Chris Cotter from 790 The Zone here in Atlanta joins us to talk more about this.
You know, when Arnold Palmer won the Masters in 1958, he took home a check for 11,000 bucks. CHRIS COTTER, 790 THE ZONE: Yes, things have changed a little bit, haven't they?
COSTELLO: Oh, yes. How much did Phil Mickelson take home? Was it a million?
COTTER: Yes, over $1 million. Over $1 million. I think 1.17 or 1.2 million -- something like that.
COSTELLO: So, I know that you watched it in its entirety.
CHAD MYERS, CNN METEOROLOGIST: Yes, I did. I watched it in high definition, and that was probably the best thing I've ever seen in high-def. It was really amazing. Watching college football is great is high-def, but watching this Masters in high-def, you could read the number on the ball. It said "Titlist."
COSTELLO: (UNINTELLIGIBLE).
MYERS: Mickelson was -- he was using an eight, and DiMarco was using a zero.
COTTER: That is (UNINTELLIGIBLE).
MYERS: (UNINTELLIGIBLE) the difference. You could see the ball.
COSTELLO: Chris, you were saying that this Masters is the best in 20 years.
COTTER: Yes, I think it's the best. You'd have to go back to 1986, when Jack Nicholas last won a sixth and final green jacket. I mean, this Masters was that good. You'd have to go that far back. And it's kind of a shot in the arm. It's what everybody in the golf world needed with Tiger Woods really struggling a little bit here as of late, especially the majors.
COSTELLO: He's finished, what, 20th?
COTTER: Twenty-second, I think he finished in time for 22nd. So, the networks, they want Tiger up there, and when he's not up there, they start to get worried. They were really worried on Saturday when it was Alex Cejka and Chris DiMarco...
MYERS: Right.
COTTER: ... those two guys, but...
MYERS: Sure, right.
COTTER: ... when you talk about the casual sports fan out there, those aren't the names they recognize. Phil Mickelson trying to get his first green jacket, and Ernie Els, who has won a couple of U.S. Opens, is already a very accomplished golfer, probably the best golfer in the world right now, going against him on Sunday was exactly what (UNINTELLIGIBLE).
COSTELLO: What, he had two eagles?
COTTER: Two eagles, and it took five birdies in the last seven holes for Phil Mickelson for him to win it. So, and usually in the past -- you know this -- Mickelson gives him away. That's how he loses. He finishes in third place every other year, because he falters down the stretch. The last couple of years he hasn't faltered as much, and this year I thought his preparation coming in was perfect. You know, he played in the Bell South and he won...
MYERS: He did. That's what I was going to say. All of these players that didn't play in the Bell South because they wanted to rest for the Masters didn't play that well.
COTTER: Yes.
MYERS: And Mickelson played last week here in Atlanta and won this one, too.
COTTER: Yes, and he seemed very relaxed last week in Atlanta and, you know, not taking things too seriously. It just looked like his demeanor was perfect going into this week.
COSTELLO: Well, you know the thing I like about Phil Mickelson, I mean, his joy just -- I mean, he showed his joy in sort of a down- to-earth kind of way, and that was nice to see in the sport of golf, frankly.
COTTER: Yes, the fans love him now, and this has been a turn over the last couple of years, because he used to take things way too seriously, and he's, you know, overly honest, almost to a fault, until a couple of years ago. And then he finally said, you know what? I've got my family. I've got a great career. I've carved out a great living for myself. I've been very blessed. So, why worry about it so much? Yes, I haven't won a major. If I never do, I'm still going to have a great life. And I think that's sort of...
COSTELLO: And a lot of money.
COTTER: And a lot of money.
MYERS: He smiled in the rough. He smiled in the sand trap.
COTTER: Yes.
MYERS: He smiled -- I have never seen a golfer smile so much.
COSTELLO: All right, before we have to wrap this up, Chad, I must say to Chris Cotter, Detroit Tigers 5-1.
COTTER: What's going on with the Tigers? Again, have fun with this. Every time I come in here, have fun, give me the record, it's not going to last.
COSTELLO: Oh, come on! That's what they said. The Tigers, what, lost on Saturday?
COTTER: Yes.
COSTELLO: And everybody was saying, oh, it's just like some weird thing that was happening.
COTTER: Well, just keep your expectations in check. Why don't we say 70 wins this year? Would you be happy with 70? Maybe 70 and 92? That would be an over 20 game change from last year. I think that's a pretty good improvement.
COSTELLO: Yes, Mr. Atlanta Braves, who are they doing this year?
COTTER: Not so good.
COSTELLO: Yes, yes. Yes, you keep thinking there.
COTTER: All right.
MYERS: All right, Chris.
COSTELLO: Thanks, Chris Cotter, for coming in. We appreciate it, as always.
Hey, it's time to win a DAYBREAK mug.
MYERS: Time to give away the mug. Were you paying attention? I hope you were. We've got some questions for you now. You have to answer them both. I've been telling you this every time, and I still get one answer from each person sometimes.
The governor of what state is set to sign a bill Monday -- today -- that would make a crime to host underage drinking parties?
And in Josie Burke's package she just did, she mentioned a golfer who made his last Masters appearance this week. Name him. Now, there may be others than just this person that will be their last Masters, but this guy actually said this is my last Masters and not coming back.
COSTELLO: OK, we understand. And, of course, we'll name the winner tomorrow.
MYERS: At 6:10.
COSTELLO: Yes. Chad will join me for "The Lightning Round" coming up, but first here are the latest headlines.
COSTELLO: I was so in love, Chad, with David Cassidy.
MYERS: Oh, of course.
COSTELLO: He was the bomb.
It is time for our "Lightning Round."
In a throwback to the days of Sonny and Cher, Chad.
MYERS: Oh, I'm ready.
COSTELLO: Oh, America's favorite pop star couple Nick Lachey and Jessica Simpson, appeared in their very own variety show last night. Take a look, Chad.
MYERS: I'm watching right now.
COSTELLO: They sang, they danced, then they performed skits with celebrity guest stars. Look at that. I wonder how long that will last.
MYERS: It could be good.
COSTELLO: All right. If Santa Claus can do it, Chad, so can the Easter bunny. This egg hunt was all under water to put a different twist on the holiday for scuba enthusiasts. Nothing like scuba-ing (ph) in a bunny suit.
MYERS: Don't touch the coil, please.
COSTELLO: It doesn't matter. There are eggs under there -- got to get them.
He put it all on red, and he won. A 32-year-old man from London sold all of his possessions. Then took a little over $135,000 to Vegas, and he bet it all on one spin of the roulette wheel. And, Chad, he won!
MYERS: Carol, he even sold his clothes! That's the only suit he has left. He sold everything. He made $135,000 on his big estate sale, put it on red, and he won.
COSTELLO: Yes, now he has more than a quarter-million dollars, and he can buy another suit.
MYERS: Sure, in Vegas, that'll be one.
COSTELLO: That's right.
Richard Clarke is already on the best-seller list. Now, his book, "Against All Enemies: Inside America's War on Terror," may become a movie. Yes, Sony Pictures optioned the film rights to the counterterrorism expert's story, according to the "Hollywood Reporter." The actor to play the part, I think, ought to be Ed Asner.
MYERS: Really?
COSTELLO: Don't you think that's a good one?
MYERS: Maybe. I haven't seen Ed in a long time. He's getting up there.
COSTELLO: I'm Carol Costello with Chad Myers. "AMERICAN MORNING" starts right now.
MYERS: See you tomorrow.
TO ORDER A VIDEO OF THIS TRANSCRIPT, PLEASE CALL 800-CNN-NEWS OR USE OUR SECURE ONLINE ORDER FORM LOCATED AT www.fdch.com.
Aired April 12, 2004 - 06:30 ET
THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.
CAROL COSTELLO, CNN ANCHOR: There is a tentative cease-fire in place this morning, and the Iraqi Governing Council is still trying to broker a political deal to calm tensions in Fallujah. Three more Marines have died in the fight for Iraq. Here's the latest in our situation report.
The Marines were killed in fighting around Fallujah. The total number of American troops killed over there now stands at 664.
The kidnapping crisis in Iraq deepens with the abduction of seven Chinese nationals. Beijing is now asking Baghdad authorities to rescue those hostages. Three Japanese and two Arabs are also being held.
And the kidnapping of those three Japanese civilians is overshadowing Vice President Cheney's visit to Japan. Officials in Tokyo this morning say there is still no word on the captives' fate.
Let's talk a little more about that American being held hostage in Iraq. Thomas Hamill is a small town guy, and his neighbors are praying for him in Macon, Mississippi this morning.
(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)
COSTELLO (voice-over): Macon, Mississippi, the small town of about 2,500 people, are hoping one of their own comes home soon.
Thomas Hamill, a 43-year-old truck driver for Halliburton, was kidnapped Friday near Baghdad. His abductors demanded that U.S. forces withdraw from the Iraqi city of Fallujah by Sunday morning, but since then there has been no word on his fate.
Now, the town of Macon is dotted with yellow ribbons, a sign of hope their neighbor will return safely. The courthouse steps, serving as a public pulpit, as family and friends gathered Sunday night, trying to find solace and answers.
Hamill, a father of two, is from Macon. He's a former dairy farmer, who went to Iraq last September to work as a truck driver. His wife, Kelly (ph), runs the local 9-11 system. She says all she needs right now are prayers.
Halliburton, while not confirming details of the abduction, released a statement saying it was monitoring the situation. Until then, a small town waits for Tommy, as they call him, to come home.
(END VIDEOTAPE)
And the concern over hostages has even spread overseas. Vice President Dick Cheney is in Japan right now, meeting with the prime minister. And Cheney offered whatever assistance the U.S. could give.
A Wisconsin family is grieving over its sacrifice to Operation Iraqi Freedom. The Whitmore (ph) has lost one of three daughters serving with the Wisconsin National Guard in Iraq. Specialist Michelle Whitmore (ph) was killed on Friday. Her twin sister, Charity (ph), and Rachel Whitmore (ph) accompanied their sisters back home from Iraq. The family is appealing to the Pentagon now to allow the surviving sisters to stay at home.
Well, you know, this week kicked off in a lighthearted way in the nation's capital -- the egg roll, as you know, at the White House. And then, as you might expect, things turn political and gets serious.
CNN's Jennifer Davis joins us live from D.C. with a preview of the week ahead.
Good morning.
JENNIFER DAVIS, CNN CORRESPONDENT: Good morning, Carol.
Well, the war on terrorism will once again be a hot topic here in Washington, but this week the president will talk not only about ways to bring about peace in Iraq, but also to other parts of the Middle East.
(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)
DAVIS (voice-over): This week starts off on a roll, as one of the oldest White House traditions -- the annual Easter egg roll. Thousands of children will spend Monday morning searching for eggs on the South Lawn and visiting with the Easter bunny.
Tuesday, more tough questions as the 9/11 Commission begins a two-day hearing. Law enforcement and the intelligence community will be in the hot seat.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: There will be some new revelations. There will be some new twists and turns.
DAVIS: Attorney General John Ashcroft, CIA Director Robert Mueller, and their Clinton administration counterparts will be grilled on allegations that red tape and bureaucracy led to large-scale intelligence failures that put the country at risk.
SEN. BOB GRAHAM (D-FL), FORMER INTELLIGENCE CHAIRMAN: All of those organizations -- the Department of Justice, the FBI, the CIA -- have a share of the responsibility, and at one point or the other in this process could have interdicted the plot.
DAVIS: Wednesday, the president meets with Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon at the White House to talk about the war on terror and the Mideast peace process. And Friday, America's chief ally, British Prime Minister Tony Blair, will also meet with President Bush at the White House.
(END VIDEOTAPE)
But today, the president remains at his ranch in Crawford, Texas. He plans to meet with Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak. They, too, will discuss Mideast peace efforts and the war on terror -- Carol.
COSTELLO: Well, you have to wonder what the questions will be like before the 9/11 Commission. They'll probably be pretty darned explosive, won't they?
DAVIS: They will, and eye-opening, according to the commissioners. They expect to focus on a lot of things, most importantly this communication breakdown, they say, between the FBI and CIA.
They also, though, will, of course, talk about the memo that was declassified this weekend. And specifically those 70 FBI field investigations that the memo talked about, they want to know what happened in all of those inquiries.
COSTELLO: So, the Bush administration releases this 9/11 document over the Easter weekend holiday, and you have to come to come to some sort of conclusion that they did that to lessen the impact. But what has the fallout been?
DAVIS: Well, as you can expect, it's been -- the reaction has been along party lines. But it has been quiet, of course, because it's been the Easter weekend. So, that will be exhibit "A" once these hearings kick off -- this round kicks off tomorrow. It's two days' worth of hearings, but you can expect that a good part of the discussion will be about that memo.
COSTELLO: All right, Jennifer Davis live from D.C. this morning. We will get more details about that recently-declassified memo we've been talking about on "AMERICAN MORNING" at 8:00 Eastern. The guest will be James Woolsey, former CIA director.
And still to come on DAYBREAK, more on the security situation and the kidnappings in Iraq. Terrorism expert Kelly McCann will join us live.
And cashing in on his counterterrorism knowledge, the latest deal involving a book that put Richard Clarke on the map outside of Washington.
And then, a weekend for legends on the links -- a look at the Masters and the players who make the game of golf what it is for legions of fans.
We'll be right back.
(COMMERCIAL BREAK) COSTELLO: Hostage-taking, a traditional terror tactic, makes its way to Iraq. The latest victims: seven Chinese men abducted in Fallujah.
Joining us now, our terrorism expert, CNN contributor and retired Marine Corps Major Kelly McCann.
Good morning -- Kelly.
KELLY MCCANN, CNN CONTRIBUTOR: Hi, Carol.
COSTELLO: You know, many of these kidnappings are taking place on the road from Baghdad to Jordan. Why there?
MCCANN: It's very treacherous road. There are a lot of faux checkpoints. People that would dress as Iraqi police and set up checkpoints for the express purpose to basically carjack people, take what they've got, extort them. And I think that probably you're seeing on that side of the equation here just that more criminal than political or religious-motivated kidnappings, Carol.
COSTELLO: And is that why we're hearing of, like Chinese taken hostage? Because the Chinese don't have any role in Iraq -- that we know of at least.
MCCANN: No, but you've got to take the nationalities out of this. I mean, really the way that all of the people who are doing these kidnappings are looking at is if you're there, then obviously you're on some kind of contract with CPA. You're assisting in some way the reconstruction effort. And that's what they take exception to.
COSTELLO: The Chinese are asking authorities in Baghdad to rescue the Chinese hostages. Is that likely? Is it possible?
MCCANN: It's not likely. The military would not put assets against any rescue attempts, unless there was some political significance or unless they were on a very important list, other than if they wanted to make a statement. In other words, that they wanted to go and kill or capture kidnappers to make the point that we will come kill you if you continue to act this way. But I don't think that a rescue will be undertaken.
However, there are always back channel communications going on in these things, usually brokered by the local elders and then there is some kind of fiscal arrangement that's set up, and then they're released.
COSTELLO: Money. Money. Ransom money, in other words.
MCCANN: That's right.
COSTELLO: So, when Dick Cheney offers whatever help the U.S. can give to the Japanese prime minister, what is he talking about?
MCCANN: Well, I mean, obviously the Japanese are feeling for the first time what it feels like to be pressured as the result of military deployment. Remember, that this is the first, like, wartime deployment since World War II. So, this is kind of a new experience for them. So, they're struggling with that, and I'm sure that among the things he's going to offer is his advice.
COSTELLO: So, is this tactic going to work?
MCCANN: No. You know, that's the thing, Carol. It simply cannot work. I mean, if you think about it, terrorism, by trying to place bombs, kidnapping people, simply cannot be allowed to bend the will of a nation. Where would it end? I mean, if you set a precedent, it would be a very dangerous precedent. So, it simply won't work.
COSTELLO: So, why are people kidnapping people then? Why are terrorists continuing to do this if it doesn't work in some way?
MCCANN: Here we are talking about it. Here we are giving them huge coverage, and that's, in fact, what keeps it on front of the people's attention.
You know, the same desperation that I've heard this weekend, speaking to some journalists and different people asking that same question, really goes to the heart of why they do it. They want it to appear as unstable in the country. They want people to feel like there is no answer; that this will go on and on and on. When, in fact, I think you'll find the U.S. is going to stay the course, and they're not going anywhere.
COSTELLO: Kelly McCann joining us live this morning, thank you.
Your news, money, weather and sports. It is 6:43 Eastern Time. Here's what's all new this morning.
Three Marines killed west of Baghdad are the latest U.S. casualties in Iraq. Nineteen Americans have been killed there since Friday, bringing the death toll in the war to 664.
The fate of American hostage Thomas Hamill is unknown this morning. A deadline set by his captors in Iraq has passed.
In money news, another record for rising gas prices. A gallon of self-serve regular has gone up another couple of pennies over the past two weeks to $1.79.
In sports, broadcaster and former NFL kicker Pat Summerall is said to be in stable condition after receiving a liver transplant.
In culture, Mel Gibson's movie, "The Passion of the Christ," recaptures the No. 1 spot at the box office this Easter weekend.
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COSTELLO: Those are the latest headlines for you.
It is the season to wear green, and you can bet one pro golfer is more than happy to follow the trend. A look back at an incredible Masters tournament when we come back.
And, double or nothing, one man's big bet. We'll tell you where the wheels stopped.
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COSTELLO: You know, it isn't often that a sporting event actually lives up to all of the hype, but this year's Masters did just that with a host of memorable moments from a new beginning to a bittersweet end.
CNN's Josie Burke has the pictures for you.
(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)
JOSIE BURKE, CNN CORRESPONDENT (voice-over): If the 68th Masters had a theme, it could be summed up in one word: farewell. The final good-bye was sweet. Phil Mickelson turned his back forever on life without a victory in a major.
PHIL MICKELSON, 2004 MASTERS CHAMPION: To have it be such a difficult journey to win my first major makes it that much more special.
BURKE: Before Mickelson's triumph, there was pain in Augusta, as Tom Watson bid farewell to his longtime caddy, Bruce Edwards. On the morning of day one, hours before teeing off, Watson learned Edwards had lost his battle with Lou Gehrig's disease.
TOM WATSON, 20TH MASTERS APPEARANCE: Damn this disease. Damn it! We're going to find a cure.
BURKE: Arnold Palmer's good-bye took time. Over two rounds, the fans who took pleasure in sharing in the joy that the king brought to Augusta every spring for half a century showed their appreciation. As always, Palmer, playing in his 50th consecutive and final Masters, returned the thanks.
ARNOLD PALMER, FOUR-TIME MASTERS CHAMPION: I'm through. I've had it. I'm done, cooked, washed up, finished -- whatever you want to say.
BURKE: The time was right to say his good-bye, Palmer insisted. And the newest man to don the green jacket could not have agreed more.
Josie Burke, CNN, Augusta, Georgia.
(END VIDEOTAPE)
COSTELLO: That's terrific.
Chris Cotter from 790 The Zone here in Atlanta joins us to talk more about this.
You know, when Arnold Palmer won the Masters in 1958, he took home a check for 11,000 bucks. CHRIS COTTER, 790 THE ZONE: Yes, things have changed a little bit, haven't they?
COSTELLO: Oh, yes. How much did Phil Mickelson take home? Was it a million?
COTTER: Yes, over $1 million. Over $1 million. I think 1.17 or 1.2 million -- something like that.
COSTELLO: So, I know that you watched it in its entirety.
CHAD MYERS, CNN METEOROLOGIST: Yes, I did. I watched it in high definition, and that was probably the best thing I've ever seen in high-def. It was really amazing. Watching college football is great is high-def, but watching this Masters in high-def, you could read the number on the ball. It said "Titlist."
COSTELLO: (UNINTELLIGIBLE).
MYERS: Mickelson was -- he was using an eight, and DiMarco was using a zero.
COTTER: That is (UNINTELLIGIBLE).
MYERS: (UNINTELLIGIBLE) the difference. You could see the ball.
COSTELLO: Chris, you were saying that this Masters is the best in 20 years.
COTTER: Yes, I think it's the best. You'd have to go back to 1986, when Jack Nicholas last won a sixth and final green jacket. I mean, this Masters was that good. You'd have to go that far back. And it's kind of a shot in the arm. It's what everybody in the golf world needed with Tiger Woods really struggling a little bit here as of late, especially the majors.
COSTELLO: He's finished, what, 20th?
COTTER: Twenty-second, I think he finished in time for 22nd. So, the networks, they want Tiger up there, and when he's not up there, they start to get worried. They were really worried on Saturday when it was Alex Cejka and Chris DiMarco...
MYERS: Right.
COTTER: ... those two guys, but...
MYERS: Sure, right.
COTTER: ... when you talk about the casual sports fan out there, those aren't the names they recognize. Phil Mickelson trying to get his first green jacket, and Ernie Els, who has won a couple of U.S. Opens, is already a very accomplished golfer, probably the best golfer in the world right now, going against him on Sunday was exactly what (UNINTELLIGIBLE).
COSTELLO: What, he had two eagles?
COTTER: Two eagles, and it took five birdies in the last seven holes for Phil Mickelson for him to win it. So, and usually in the past -- you know this -- Mickelson gives him away. That's how he loses. He finishes in third place every other year, because he falters down the stretch. The last couple of years he hasn't faltered as much, and this year I thought his preparation coming in was perfect. You know, he played in the Bell South and he won...
MYERS: He did. That's what I was going to say. All of these players that didn't play in the Bell South because they wanted to rest for the Masters didn't play that well.
COTTER: Yes.
MYERS: And Mickelson played last week here in Atlanta and won this one, too.
COTTER: Yes, and he seemed very relaxed last week in Atlanta and, you know, not taking things too seriously. It just looked like his demeanor was perfect going into this week.
COSTELLO: Well, you know the thing I like about Phil Mickelson, I mean, his joy just -- I mean, he showed his joy in sort of a down- to-earth kind of way, and that was nice to see in the sport of golf, frankly.
COTTER: Yes, the fans love him now, and this has been a turn over the last couple of years, because he used to take things way too seriously, and he's, you know, overly honest, almost to a fault, until a couple of years ago. And then he finally said, you know what? I've got my family. I've got a great career. I've carved out a great living for myself. I've been very blessed. So, why worry about it so much? Yes, I haven't won a major. If I never do, I'm still going to have a great life. And I think that's sort of...
COSTELLO: And a lot of money.
COTTER: And a lot of money.
MYERS: He smiled in the rough. He smiled in the sand trap.
COTTER: Yes.
MYERS: He smiled -- I have never seen a golfer smile so much.
COSTELLO: All right, before we have to wrap this up, Chad, I must say to Chris Cotter, Detroit Tigers 5-1.
COTTER: What's going on with the Tigers? Again, have fun with this. Every time I come in here, have fun, give me the record, it's not going to last.
COSTELLO: Oh, come on! That's what they said. The Tigers, what, lost on Saturday?
COTTER: Yes.
COSTELLO: And everybody was saying, oh, it's just like some weird thing that was happening.
COTTER: Well, just keep your expectations in check. Why don't we say 70 wins this year? Would you be happy with 70? Maybe 70 and 92? That would be an over 20 game change from last year. I think that's a pretty good improvement.
COSTELLO: Yes, Mr. Atlanta Braves, who are they doing this year?
COTTER: Not so good.
COSTELLO: Yes, yes. Yes, you keep thinking there.
COTTER: All right.
MYERS: All right, Chris.
COSTELLO: Thanks, Chris Cotter, for coming in. We appreciate it, as always.
Hey, it's time to win a DAYBREAK mug.
MYERS: Time to give away the mug. Were you paying attention? I hope you were. We've got some questions for you now. You have to answer them both. I've been telling you this every time, and I still get one answer from each person sometimes.
The governor of what state is set to sign a bill Monday -- today -- that would make a crime to host underage drinking parties?
And in Josie Burke's package she just did, she mentioned a golfer who made his last Masters appearance this week. Name him. Now, there may be others than just this person that will be their last Masters, but this guy actually said this is my last Masters and not coming back.
COSTELLO: OK, we understand. And, of course, we'll name the winner tomorrow.
MYERS: At 6:10.
COSTELLO: Yes. Chad will join me for "The Lightning Round" coming up, but first here are the latest headlines.
COSTELLO: I was so in love, Chad, with David Cassidy.
MYERS: Oh, of course.
COSTELLO: He was the bomb.
It is time for our "Lightning Round."
In a throwback to the days of Sonny and Cher, Chad.
MYERS: Oh, I'm ready.
COSTELLO: Oh, America's favorite pop star couple Nick Lachey and Jessica Simpson, appeared in their very own variety show last night. Take a look, Chad.
MYERS: I'm watching right now.
COSTELLO: They sang, they danced, then they performed skits with celebrity guest stars. Look at that. I wonder how long that will last.
MYERS: It could be good.
COSTELLO: All right. If Santa Claus can do it, Chad, so can the Easter bunny. This egg hunt was all under water to put a different twist on the holiday for scuba enthusiasts. Nothing like scuba-ing (ph) in a bunny suit.
MYERS: Don't touch the coil, please.
COSTELLO: It doesn't matter. There are eggs under there -- got to get them.
He put it all on red, and he won. A 32-year-old man from London sold all of his possessions. Then took a little over $135,000 to Vegas, and he bet it all on one spin of the roulette wheel. And, Chad, he won!
MYERS: Carol, he even sold his clothes! That's the only suit he has left. He sold everything. He made $135,000 on his big estate sale, put it on red, and he won.
COSTELLO: Yes, now he has more than a quarter-million dollars, and he can buy another suit.
MYERS: Sure, in Vegas, that'll be one.
COSTELLO: That's right.
Richard Clarke is already on the best-seller list. Now, his book, "Against All Enemies: Inside America's War on Terror," may become a movie. Yes, Sony Pictures optioned the film rights to the counterterrorism expert's story, according to the "Hollywood Reporter." The actor to play the part, I think, ought to be Ed Asner.
MYERS: Really?
COSTELLO: Don't you think that's a good one?
MYERS: Maybe. I haven't seen Ed in a long time. He's getting up there.
COSTELLO: I'm Carol Costello with Chad Myers. "AMERICAN MORNING" starts right now.
MYERS: See you tomorrow.
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