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CNN Live At Daybreak

Remembering Reagan: Final Respects, Legacy

Aired June 09, 2004 - 06:32   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: And good morning to you from the CNN global headquarters in Atlanta. I'm Carol Costello. Let me bring you up-to-date now.
Today the mourning for Ronald Reagan moves from California to Washington. More than 100,000 people passed by his casket to bid a final farewell. The president's family will escort his body to Washington today, where it will lie in state at the Capitol.

An American military contractor has been fatally shot in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The shooting comes a day after Islamic militants warned of new attacks on Westerners.

In money news, Clear Channel Communications has learned the cost of off-color remarks by Howard Stern and others. One of the largest owners of radio stations in the nation is paying $1.7 million to the FCC to settle several indecency complaints.

In sports, Ohio State basketball coach Jim O'Brien is sent packing. He's been fired after admitting he gave a recruit $6,000 in 1999.

In culture, you can expect to see more books on Ronald Reagan at your bookstore soon. Do you think? Several publishers are rushing into print books on the 40th president and re-issuing several more.

(WEATHER BREAK)

COSTELLO: Over the past two days, more than 100,000 people have passed by Ronald Reagan's casket in California to pay their respects to the former president. And starting tonight, people on the East Coast will get their opportunity to bid a final farewell.

We have reports from both coasts this morning. Ed Henry joining us from Washington, but we'll start with Chris Lawrence, who is at the Reagan Library in Simi Valley.

Good morning.

CHRIS LAWRENCE, CNN CORRESPONDENT: Good morning, Carol.

And those crowds that we saw yesterday have all gone home now. This is the quietest it's been here at the library in quite some time. But we're told that the Reagan family has been overwhelmed by the amount of support that was shown here at the library, that they were just overwhelmed at the fact that so many strangers would wait upwards of six hours just to spend a few seconds in the presence of the former president.

Now, of course, those people have all gone home. And we are waiting the arrival of the Reagan family here in a few hours.

COSTELLO: Chris Lawrence live from the Simi Valley.

One of the most unforgettable images from a state funeral is the horse-drawn carriage carrying the flag-draped casket through the streets of the nation's capital. That scene will play out this evening after a dress rehearsal last night.

Ed Henry joining us now for a look at the ceremonies on the schedule in Washington.

Good morning.

ED HENRY, CNN CONGRESSIONAL CORRESPONDENT: Good morning, Carol.

Obviously, the security planning is a critical part of this state funeral. You heard about that a moment ago. But also, as you mentioned, the preparations for the pomp and circumstance, that is kicking into high gear as well.

There was a practice run yesterday for that horse-drawn caisson that you mentioned a moment ago. That is going to be one of the most dramatic carts, a procession that will lead the former president's casket from near the Washington Monument right down Constitution Avenue to the Capitol, running from about 6:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time to 7:00 p.m. It will then be taken, obviously led into the Capitol, right up the West Front steps, which is where President Reagan was sworn in into office in 1981. That is one of the practice runs we saw yesterday.

Also, during that procession, there will be a 21-jet flyover; yet another important part of this state funeral. We heard last night a practice run for that. There were military planes roaring over the nation's capital, right over the National Mall. Again, that will be another critical part of this.

And finally, last night the catafalque, that's the massive platform that the casket will sit on. It was built for Abraham Lincoln's state funeral in 1865. It's still kept, actually, in a room in the basement of the Capitol. And last night, it was brought up by several workers, extremely heavy. It's where the coffin will actually sit. The coffin will be in the Rotunda of the Capitol.

Interesting enough, that is where Ronald Reagan was sworn into office for his second term. As you remember, the weather was so cold in 1985, January of 1985, that Mr. Reagan could not be sworn in on the West Front. It was actually brought into the Rotunda. So, that's where he will be, and that's where people will be paying their respects to the nation's 40th president -- Carol.

COSTELLO: Ed Henry live in Washington this morning.

President Reagan's elaborate memorial is unusual. Not every president is laid to rest this way. We wondered why, so we take you back live to Washington and presidential historian Allan Lichtman.

Good morning.

ALLAN LICHTMAN, PRESIDENTIAL HISTORIAN, AMERICAN UNIVERSITY: Good morning, Carol.

COSTELLO: We know by the number of people filing by President Reagan's casket that he was beloved. Still, why isn't every president honored this way?

LICHTMAN: Well, you know, sometimes it is the choice of the president himself. The last president, of course, to have a funeral was Richard Nixon back in 1994. And remember, Richard Nixon was driven from the Capitol, the only president ever to resign. And it was his wish not to have his funeral in the Capitol, not to lie in state, but to have the ceremonies in California. About nine presidents have had after their death the selection of lying in state in the Rotunda of the Capitol.

And, of course, this particular ritual that we see this week goes back to Abraham Lincoln in 1865, and the state funeral themselves go back to William Henry Harrison, who died after just a month of office in 1841, the first president to die in office.

COSTELLO: Do you have any predictions? Will President Carter's funeral be like this or President Ford's?

LICHTMAN: You know, President Carter is a man who believes in great simplicity. I would -- remember, he was the man who walked down Pennsylvania Avenue. I think his funeral might be more simple. But Gerald Ford's will probably be similar.

But, you know, I really don't expect for either of those two ex- presidents this kind of extraordinary outpouring of emotion. We've only seen this on occasion -- Lincoln, Roosevelt, Kennedy and now Ronald Reagan. It's something very, very special, very unique and rare in a country that has no kings and queens and very few rituals.

COSTELLO: You know, the airwaves have been filled with glowing memories of President Reagan, and you hear a lot from Republicans at the various services available. But we haven't really heard from Jimmy Carter or Bill Clinton. Is that wrong? Should we?

LICHTMAN: I think we should. I think we should hear from all Americans no matter what their partisan affiliation. All Americans can appreciate the contributions that Ronald Reagan made to this nation, and the way as a man, as an individual. He is beloved by ordinary Americans. Of course, his record is controversial. Of course, we will debate pro and con for decades, perhaps centuries, his contributions. But this is really a time of remembrance and celebration, not a time of critique.

COSTELLO: Allan Lichtman live from Washington for us. Thanks for joining DAYBREAK this morning.

LICHTMAN: Thanks, Carol. COSTELLO: CNN will have special live coverage of Ronald Reagan's final journey to Washington this morning. That begins at 11:00 Eastern.

And still to come on DAYBREAK, if you've packed on the pounds over the winter, it's not too late to start shedding them for summer. Our personal nutritionist, Lisa Drayer, will tell us about some simple ways to eat, drink and still cut calories.

And pet couture, summer style and safety for your best friend.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

COSTELLO: Your news, money, weather and sports. It is 6:43 Eastern. Here's what's all new this morning.

Ronald Reagan's body leaves one coast for another later today. It's expected to arrive at Washington around 5:00 p.m. Eastern. More than 106,000 people filed past the former president's coffin in California.

Democratic senators had some pointed questions for Attorney General John Ashcroft during hearings into claims of torture in Iraq. Judiciary Committee members also asked Ashcroft to release memos that may have led to the approval of abusive interrogations.

In money news, MGM Mirage is extending the deadline of a proposed merger with Mandalay Resort Group until Friday. The deal is worth $7.6 billion. It would create the largest gambling company in the word.

In sports, it's his third straight tournament. Andre Agassi has lost in the first round. This time he fell to the 60th-ranked player in the world at the Queens event, which is a warm-up for Wimbledon.

In culture, officials in Melbourne, Australia, are getting ready to name a downtown street after the rock band, AC/DC.

(WEATHER BREAK)

COSTELLO: Those are the latest headlines for you.

Let's head live to Washington and New York to check in with Bill and Soledad to see what's coming up on "AMERICAN MORNING."

Elizabeth Dole on the program this morning?

BILL HEMMER, CNN ANCHOR: Indeed you're right, Carol. Good morning to you.

We've moved across the country, Soledad, as the focus for Ronald Reagan now shifts to the nation's capital. It's going to be an amazing three days here in Washington. We'll talk this morning with the first lady, Laura Bush. And, Carol, as you mentioned, Senator Elizabeth Dole will be our guest as well, reflecting on the life of Ronald Reagan. Really a lot planned over the next three days as America tunes in to watch our coverage. They are going to see a very special moment here for our country.

Soledad -- how are you doing? Good morning to you.

SOLEDAD O'BRIEN, CNN ANCHOR: I'm doing great. We miss you, Billy.

HEMMER: Oh, well, thank you. I miss you, too.

O'BRIEN: And we're looking forward to seeing you next week sometime.

HEMMER: Are you keeping Jack in line?

O'BRIEN: I've moved into your office, but that's another story.

Also this morning, Carol, we're talking, of course, about the Peterson trial. Yesterday, Laci's stepfather testified. We've got analysis on this trial from Jeff Toobin this morning.

And the Mars rovers. NASA is now willing to lose one of them in a risky expedition. We're going to talk to a space expert about that and much, much more. All of that ahead on "AMERICAN MORNING." Carol, we'll see you in just a few minutes.

COSTELLO: We'll be here. Thanks, Bill and Soledad.

Still to come on DAYBREAK, it is not too late to start a summer diet. In fact, some manufacturers are making it easy for you to cut calories this year. Nutritionist Lisa Drayer will tell us which companies are trimming down their products just for you.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

COSTELLO: Welcome back to DAYBREAK.

Are you tired of banning soda, cookies and sugar on your new stay-healthy diet? If so, we have got some news you will want to hear.

Joining us live from New York is our nutritionist, Lisa Drayer.

Good morning, Lisa.

LISA DRAYER, REGISTERED DIETICIAN: Good morning, Carol.

That's right. Some of your favorite foods and beverages are undergoing a makeover. That is -- that trend, Carol, is known as mid- calorie, and manufacturers are cutting calories to help individuals enjoy the taste of their favorite foods without all of the calories that come with them.

So, let's take a look at some of these new products that we will be seeing on supermarket shelves. We have Pepsi Edge. That's rolling out this week. Pepsi Edge has 70 calories per can. That's half of the calories as compared to regular Pepsi. It also contains half the carbs and half the sugar. It is sweetened with Splenda or sucralose and high-fructose corn syrup.

Then we have Coca-Cola. They recently launched C2. It also contains half the calories as compared to Coca-Cola Classic. It's sweetened with high-fructose corn syrup, sugar and a blend of non- nutritive sweeteners, including sucralose and aspartame.

Now, Carol, these two sodas are targeted to over 60 million Americans known as dual-users; that is they enjoy both regular and diet sodas.

But beverages aren't the only products to experience calorie cuts. Kraft is now coming out with Newt Nabisco 100-calorie packs in July. So, these packs contain 100 calories, 2 to 3 grams of fat, no trans-fats. And they include foods such as Oreo Skim Crisps, Chips Ahoy Thin Crisps and Wheat Thin Minis. Kraft estimates that they have cut over 30 billion calories of all of their foods, and that's...

COSTELLO: Thirty billion calories?

DRAYER: Yes, that's what they're saying.

And last but not least, a new mid-calorie sweetener will be coming on shelves soon. Equal, that's the artificial sweetener, is coming out with a new version called Equal Sugar Light. It has half the calories as compared to Equal. It's the only sweetener that includes real sugar as well as some other non-nutritive sweeteners.

COSTELLO: OK. So, they have half -- these products have half the calories. I mean, so what? You can still gain weight if you eat too much of them, right?

DRAYER: Exactly. And there has not been any research on these mid-calorie products per se; that is, no study has looked at whether or not people lose weight with these products. However, we do know that if you cut 100 calories from your diet each day over a year, you will lose 10 pounds. And by cutting their calories from these products, the manufacturers are helping consumers to make -- to enjoy their healthier foods without making drastic changes to their diets.

Now, that being said, if you're only consuming, you know, cookies and soda, even if they are reduced calorie, you won't necessarily be eating healthy, or lose weight for that matter.

COSTELLO: But, you know, it's funny. It sounds like these kinds of products should have been made this way all along. Why are manufacturers now stepping up to the plate? Is it fear of lawsuits? Or do they really care?

DRAYER: Well, it's a good question. Now, according to a "TIME"/ABC News poll, published in "TIME" this week, 61 percent of consumers feel that manufacturers of high-calorie packaged and processed foods bear a great deal or a good amount of responsibility for the nation's obesity problems. And certainly if consumers view manufacturers as part of the problem, that does open up the opportunity for them to be part of the solution. And some experts say this is a necessary step for these companies to stay in business in such a health-conscious environment.

But, Carol, according to the same survey, 87 percent of consumers feel that individual Americans in their choice of diet and lack of exercise bears a great deal or a good amount of responsibility for the nation's obesity problem. And this percentage topped the list of possible causes.

COSTELLO: Interesting. Interesting information this morning. Many thanks to you, Lisa Drayer, live in New York.

CHAD MYERS, CNN METEOROLOGIST: Have you noticed all of the people that are drinking diet sodas?

COSTELLO: I always drink diet soda.

MYERS: You do?

COSTELLO: Yes.

MYERS: Oh, OK.

COSTELLO: Why?

MYERS: I've just noticed that all of the people that are drinking regular sugared coke, they're skinny. And everybody like me who is trying to drink diet coke just has this awful time trying to keep the weight off.

COSTELLO: Well, you know, why? Because people drinking diet sodas still eat a really fattening meal. Have you ever seen that?

MYERS: I know. I guess so.

Anyway, hear about these R cards?

COSTELLO: Oh, yes. Some movie theaters from across Atlanta are issuing kids these R cards. And what it does is you go home and you have your parents sign it, and then you are allowed into the R-rated movies.

MYERS: Right.

COSTELLO: With your parents' permission per se.

MYERS: With your parents' permission. The parent actually has to go to the theater and sign the card.

COSTELLO: So, they actually have to see the parent sign the card.

MYERS: Yes.

COSTELLO: That's smart. MYERS: Correct, correct. But I'm just -- I mean, how easy is it to get into an R-rated movie for a 14 or 15-year-old. Now, come on. Buy the PG ticket and you walk into any movie you want to. My goodness, hello!

COSTELLO: We used to do that 30 years ago.

MYERS: These are not state secrets here. Holy cow! You don't need an R card anyway.

COSTELLO: All right.

MYERS: Anyway, it's time to give away the mug from yesterday.

COSTELLO: I'm ready.

MYERS: We had some good questions yesterday. What year will the next transit of Venus occur? That's 2012. It will happen in eight years and then not again for another 122 years. And what was Ronald Reagan's average job approval while in office? Fifty-three percent.

The winner, Avi Dubrusin from Ann Arbor, Michigan.

COSTELLO: Oh, congratulations!

MYERS: Good morning to you and congratulations for your good answers there.

And now the question: What well-known politician's daughter has decided to run for president on a reality TV show? We just had her on there. And in a poll last year, nearly half of all Saudis said they have a favorable opinion of whom?

COSTELLO: Daybreak@CNN.com. Daybreak@CNN.com. And, of course, we'll name the winner tomorrow.

MYERS: You must answer them both, please.

COSTELLO: You must. We'll be right back with more. You stay right there.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

COSTELLO: And a fine looking 41; Johnny Depp that is.

MYERS: I understand.

COSTELLO: And a fine looking 41 to you, too.

MYERS: Well, thank you.

COSTELLO: You and Johnny Depp are the same age.

MYERS: Yes.

COSTELLO: That's... MYERS: (UNINTELLIGIBLE).

COSTELLO: OK, it is time for our "Lightning Round." We haven't done this for a while. We're out of practice. So, let's go.

Forget the Summer Games in Athens for just a second. These so- called athletes in (UNINTELLIGIBLE) Olympics, well, this is in Britain, and they train hard, too.

MYERS: Shin-kicking.

COSTELLO: Shin-kicking. This is shin-kicking. Competitors...

MYERS: You've got to be careful how you say that.

COSTELLO: That's right, shin-kicking. You can actually stuff your pants with straw to protect yourself.

MYERS: Careful!

COSTELLO: But, you see, you just kick each other until one of you falls down or breaks a leg.

MYERS: Oh, that's great.

COSTELLO: That's a really beautiful sport.

Dog lovers in America have already figured it out. Pets need protection from the sun, too.

MYERS: Yes.

COSTELLO: So, now doggles are catching on in Europe. Look at the doggles. The doggie goggles come in all shapes and sizes and cost between 20 and 50 bucks a pair.

MYERS: You can find them online or even at PetSmart.

COSTELLO: My dog would break those in a second.

Want a piece of history? An auction of Titanic memorabilia next week include a deck chair, a teacup, a saucer, and a section of the sunken ocean liner's grand staircase. It will also include more (UNINTELLIGIBLE) items like a photo of a woman in a coffin who died on the Titanic.

MYERS: Yes, yes, that's strange.

COSTELLO: Very strange.

That's it for us this morning. I'm Carol Costello along with Chad Myers. "AMERICAN MORNING" starts right now.

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 June 9, 2004 - 06:32   ET
THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.
CAROL COSTELLO, CNN ANCHOR: And good morning to you from the CNN global headquarters in Atlanta. I'm Carol Costello. Let me bring you up-to-date now.
Today the mourning for Ronald Reagan moves from California to Washington. More than 100,000 people passed by his casket to bid a final farewell. The president's family will escort his body to Washington today, where it will lie in state at the Capitol.

An American military contractor has been fatally shot in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The shooting comes a day after Islamic militants warned of new attacks on Westerners.

In money news, Clear Channel Communications has learned the cost of off-color remarks by Howard Stern and others. One of the largest owners of radio stations in the nation is paying $1.7 million to the FCC to settle several indecency complaints.

In sports, Ohio State basketball coach Jim O'Brien is sent packing. He's been fired after admitting he gave a recruit $6,000 in 1999.

In culture, you can expect to see more books on Ronald Reagan at your bookstore soon. Do you think? Several publishers are rushing into print books on the 40th president and re-issuing several more.

(WEATHER BREAK)

COSTELLO: Over the past two days, more than 100,000 people have passed by Ronald Reagan's casket in California to pay their respects to the former president. And starting tonight, people on the East Coast will get their opportunity to bid a final farewell.

We have reports from both coasts this morning. Ed Henry joining us from Washington, but we'll start with Chris Lawrence, who is at the Reagan Library in Simi Valley.

Good morning.

CHRIS LAWRENCE, CNN CORRESPONDENT: Good morning, Carol.

And those crowds that we saw yesterday have all gone home now. This is the quietest it's been here at the library in quite some time. But we're told that the Reagan family has been overwhelmed by the amount of support that was shown here at the library, that they were just overwhelmed at the fact that so many strangers would wait upwards of six hours just to spend a few seconds in the presence of the former president.

Now, of course, those people have all gone home. And we are waiting the arrival of the Reagan family here in a few hours.

COSTELLO: Chris Lawrence live from the Simi Valley.

One of the most unforgettable images from a state funeral is the horse-drawn carriage carrying the flag-draped casket through the streets of the nation's capital. That scene will play out this evening after a dress rehearsal last night.

Ed Henry joining us now for a look at the ceremonies on the schedule in Washington.

Good morning.

ED HENRY, CNN CONGRESSIONAL CORRESPONDENT: Good morning, Carol.

Obviously, the security planning is a critical part of this state funeral. You heard about that a moment ago. But also, as you mentioned, the preparations for the pomp and circumstance, that is kicking into high gear as well.

There was a practice run yesterday for that horse-drawn caisson that you mentioned a moment ago. That is going to be one of the most dramatic carts, a procession that will lead the former president's casket from near the Washington Monument right down Constitution Avenue to the Capitol, running from about 6:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time to 7:00 p.m. It will then be taken, obviously led into the Capitol, right up the West Front steps, which is where President Reagan was sworn in into office in 1981. That is one of the practice runs we saw yesterday.

Also, during that procession, there will be a 21-jet flyover; yet another important part of this state funeral. We heard last night a practice run for that. There were military planes roaring over the nation's capital, right over the National Mall. Again, that will be another critical part of this.

And finally, last night the catafalque, that's the massive platform that the casket will sit on. It was built for Abraham Lincoln's state funeral in 1865. It's still kept, actually, in a room in the basement of the Capitol. And last night, it was brought up by several workers, extremely heavy. It's where the coffin will actually sit. The coffin will be in the Rotunda of the Capitol.

Interesting enough, that is where Ronald Reagan was sworn into office for his second term. As you remember, the weather was so cold in 1985, January of 1985, that Mr. Reagan could not be sworn in on the West Front. It was actually brought into the Rotunda. So, that's where he will be, and that's where people will be paying their respects to the nation's 40th president -- Carol.

COSTELLO: Ed Henry live in Washington this morning.

President Reagan's elaborate memorial is unusual. Not every president is laid to rest this way. We wondered why, so we take you back live to Washington and presidential historian Allan Lichtman.

Good morning.

ALLAN LICHTMAN, PRESIDENTIAL HISTORIAN, AMERICAN UNIVERSITY: Good morning, Carol.

COSTELLO: We know by the number of people filing by President Reagan's casket that he was beloved. Still, why isn't every president honored this way?

LICHTMAN: Well, you know, sometimes it is the choice of the president himself. The last president, of course, to have a funeral was Richard Nixon back in 1994. And remember, Richard Nixon was driven from the Capitol, the only president ever to resign. And it was his wish not to have his funeral in the Capitol, not to lie in state, but to have the ceremonies in California. About nine presidents have had after their death the selection of lying in state in the Rotunda of the Capitol.

And, of course, this particular ritual that we see this week goes back to Abraham Lincoln in 1865, and the state funeral themselves go back to William Henry Harrison, who died after just a month of office in 1841, the first president to die in office.

COSTELLO: Do you have any predictions? Will President Carter's funeral be like this or President Ford's?

LICHTMAN: You know, President Carter is a man who believes in great simplicity. I would -- remember, he was the man who walked down Pennsylvania Avenue. I think his funeral might be more simple. But Gerald Ford's will probably be similar.

But, you know, I really don't expect for either of those two ex- presidents this kind of extraordinary outpouring of emotion. We've only seen this on occasion -- Lincoln, Roosevelt, Kennedy and now Ronald Reagan. It's something very, very special, very unique and rare in a country that has no kings and queens and very few rituals.

COSTELLO: You know, the airwaves have been filled with glowing memories of President Reagan, and you hear a lot from Republicans at the various services available. But we haven't really heard from Jimmy Carter or Bill Clinton. Is that wrong? Should we?

LICHTMAN: I think we should. I think we should hear from all Americans no matter what their partisan affiliation. All Americans can appreciate the contributions that Ronald Reagan made to this nation, and the way as a man, as an individual. He is beloved by ordinary Americans. Of course, his record is controversial. Of course, we will debate pro and con for decades, perhaps centuries, his contributions. But this is really a time of remembrance and celebration, not a time of critique.

COSTELLO: Allan Lichtman live from Washington for us. Thanks for joining DAYBREAK this morning.

LICHTMAN: Thanks, Carol. COSTELLO: CNN will have special live coverage of Ronald Reagan's final journey to Washington this morning. That begins at 11:00 Eastern.

And still to come on DAYBREAK, if you've packed on the pounds over the winter, it's not too late to start shedding them for summer. Our personal nutritionist, Lisa Drayer, will tell us about some simple ways to eat, drink and still cut calories.

And pet couture, summer style and safety for your best friend.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

COSTELLO: Your news, money, weather and sports. It is 6:43 Eastern. Here's what's all new this morning.

Ronald Reagan's body leaves one coast for another later today. It's expected to arrive at Washington around 5:00 p.m. Eastern. More than 106,000 people filed past the former president's coffin in California.

Democratic senators had some pointed questions for Attorney General John Ashcroft during hearings into claims of torture in Iraq. Judiciary Committee members also asked Ashcroft to release memos that may have led to the approval of abusive interrogations.

In money news, MGM Mirage is extending the deadline of a proposed merger with Mandalay Resort Group until Friday. The deal is worth $7.6 billion. It would create the largest gambling company in the word.

In sports, it's his third straight tournament. Andre Agassi has lost in the first round. This time he fell to the 60th-ranked player in the world at the Queens event, which is a warm-up for Wimbledon.

In culture, officials in Melbourne, Australia, are getting ready to name a downtown street after the rock band, AC/DC.

(WEATHER BREAK)

COSTELLO: Those are the latest headlines for you.

Let's head live to Washington and New York to check in with Bill and Soledad to see what's coming up on "AMERICAN MORNING."

Elizabeth Dole on the program this morning?

BILL HEMMER, CNN ANCHOR: Indeed you're right, Carol. Good morning to you.

We've moved across the country, Soledad, as the focus for Ronald Reagan now shifts to the nation's capital. It's going to be an amazing three days here in Washington. We'll talk this morning with the first lady, Laura Bush. And, Carol, as you mentioned, Senator Elizabeth Dole will be our guest as well, reflecting on the life of Ronald Reagan. Really a lot planned over the next three days as America tunes in to watch our coverage. They are going to see a very special moment here for our country.

Soledad -- how are you doing? Good morning to you.

SOLEDAD O'BRIEN, CNN ANCHOR: I'm doing great. We miss you, Billy.

HEMMER: Oh, well, thank you. I miss you, too.

O'BRIEN: And we're looking forward to seeing you next week sometime.

HEMMER: Are you keeping Jack in line?

O'BRIEN: I've moved into your office, but that's another story.

Also this morning, Carol, we're talking, of course, about the Peterson trial. Yesterday, Laci's stepfather testified. We've got analysis on this trial from Jeff Toobin this morning.

And the Mars rovers. NASA is now willing to lose one of them in a risky expedition. We're going to talk to a space expert about that and much, much more. All of that ahead on "AMERICAN MORNING." Carol, we'll see you in just a few minutes.

COSTELLO: We'll be here. Thanks, Bill and Soledad.

Still to come on DAYBREAK, it is not too late to start a summer diet. In fact, some manufacturers are making it easy for you to cut calories this year. Nutritionist Lisa Drayer will tell us which companies are trimming down their products just for you.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

COSTELLO: Welcome back to DAYBREAK.

Are you tired of banning soda, cookies and sugar on your new stay-healthy diet? If so, we have got some news you will want to hear.

Joining us live from New York is our nutritionist, Lisa Drayer.

Good morning, Lisa.

LISA DRAYER, REGISTERED DIETICIAN: Good morning, Carol.

That's right. Some of your favorite foods and beverages are undergoing a makeover. That is -- that trend, Carol, is known as mid- calorie, and manufacturers are cutting calories to help individuals enjoy the taste of their favorite foods without all of the calories that come with them.

So, let's take a look at some of these new products that we will be seeing on supermarket shelves. We have Pepsi Edge. That's rolling out this week. Pepsi Edge has 70 calories per can. That's half of the calories as compared to regular Pepsi. It also contains half the carbs and half the sugar. It is sweetened with Splenda or sucralose and high-fructose corn syrup.

Then we have Coca-Cola. They recently launched C2. It also contains half the calories as compared to Coca-Cola Classic. It's sweetened with high-fructose corn syrup, sugar and a blend of non- nutritive sweeteners, including sucralose and aspartame.

Now, Carol, these two sodas are targeted to over 60 million Americans known as dual-users; that is they enjoy both regular and diet sodas.

But beverages aren't the only products to experience calorie cuts. Kraft is now coming out with Newt Nabisco 100-calorie packs in July. So, these packs contain 100 calories, 2 to 3 grams of fat, no trans-fats. And they include foods such as Oreo Skim Crisps, Chips Ahoy Thin Crisps and Wheat Thin Minis. Kraft estimates that they have cut over 30 billion calories of all of their foods, and that's...

COSTELLO: Thirty billion calories?

DRAYER: Yes, that's what they're saying.

And last but not least, a new mid-calorie sweetener will be coming on shelves soon. Equal, that's the artificial sweetener, is coming out with a new version called Equal Sugar Light. It has half the calories as compared to Equal. It's the only sweetener that includes real sugar as well as some other non-nutritive sweeteners.

COSTELLO: OK. So, they have half -- these products have half the calories. I mean, so what? You can still gain weight if you eat too much of them, right?

DRAYER: Exactly. And there has not been any research on these mid-calorie products per se; that is, no study has looked at whether or not people lose weight with these products. However, we do know that if you cut 100 calories from your diet each day over a year, you will lose 10 pounds. And by cutting their calories from these products, the manufacturers are helping consumers to make -- to enjoy their healthier foods without making drastic changes to their diets.

Now, that being said, if you're only consuming, you know, cookies and soda, even if they are reduced calorie, you won't necessarily be eating healthy, or lose weight for that matter.

COSTELLO: But, you know, it's funny. It sounds like these kinds of products should have been made this way all along. Why are manufacturers now stepping up to the plate? Is it fear of lawsuits? Or do they really care?

DRAYER: Well, it's a good question. Now, according to a "TIME"/ABC News poll, published in "TIME" this week, 61 percent of consumers feel that manufacturers of high-calorie packaged and processed foods bear a great deal or a good amount of responsibility for the nation's obesity problems. And certainly if consumers view manufacturers as part of the problem, that does open up the opportunity for them to be part of the solution. And some experts say this is a necessary step for these companies to stay in business in such a health-conscious environment.

But, Carol, according to the same survey, 87 percent of consumers feel that individual Americans in their choice of diet and lack of exercise bears a great deal or a good amount of responsibility for the nation's obesity problem. And this percentage topped the list of possible causes.

COSTELLO: Interesting. Interesting information this morning. Many thanks to you, Lisa Drayer, live in New York.

CHAD MYERS, CNN METEOROLOGIST: Have you noticed all of the people that are drinking diet sodas?

COSTELLO: I always drink diet soda.

MYERS: You do?

COSTELLO: Yes.

MYERS: Oh, OK.

COSTELLO: Why?

MYERS: I've just noticed that all of the people that are drinking regular sugared coke, they're skinny. And everybody like me who is trying to drink diet coke just has this awful time trying to keep the weight off.

COSTELLO: Well, you know, why? Because people drinking diet sodas still eat a really fattening meal. Have you ever seen that?

MYERS: I know. I guess so.

Anyway, hear about these R cards?

COSTELLO: Oh, yes. Some movie theaters from across Atlanta are issuing kids these R cards. And what it does is you go home and you have your parents sign it, and then you are allowed into the R-rated movies.

MYERS: Right.

COSTELLO: With your parents' permission per se.

MYERS: With your parents' permission. The parent actually has to go to the theater and sign the card.

COSTELLO: So, they actually have to see the parent sign the card.

MYERS: Yes.

COSTELLO: That's smart. MYERS: Correct, correct. But I'm just -- I mean, how easy is it to get into an R-rated movie for a 14 or 15-year-old. Now, come on. Buy the PG ticket and you walk into any movie you want to. My goodness, hello!

COSTELLO: We used to do that 30 years ago.

MYERS: These are not state secrets here. Holy cow! You don't need an R card anyway.

COSTELLO: All right.

MYERS: Anyway, it's time to give away the mug from yesterday.

COSTELLO: I'm ready.

MYERS: We had some good questions yesterday. What year will the next transit of Venus occur? That's 2012. It will happen in eight years and then not again for another 122 years. And what was Ronald Reagan's average job approval while in office? Fifty-three percent.

The winner, Avi Dubrusin from Ann Arbor, Michigan.

COSTELLO: Oh, congratulations!

MYERS: Good morning to you and congratulations for your good answers there.

And now the question: What well-known politician's daughter has decided to run for president on a reality TV show? We just had her on there. And in a poll last year, nearly half of all Saudis said they have a favorable opinion of whom?

COSTELLO: Daybreak@CNN.com. Daybreak@CNN.com. And, of course, we'll name the winner tomorrow.

MYERS: You must answer them both, please.

COSTELLO: You must. We'll be right back with more. You stay right there.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

COSTELLO: And a fine looking 41; Johnny Depp that is.

MYERS: I understand.

COSTELLO: And a fine looking 41 to you, too.

MYERS: Well, thank you.

COSTELLO: You and Johnny Depp are the same age.

MYERS: Yes.

COSTELLO: That's... MYERS: (UNINTELLIGIBLE).

COSTELLO: OK, it is time for our "Lightning Round." We haven't done this for a while. We're out of practice. So, let's go.

Forget the Summer Games in Athens for just a second. These so- called athletes in (UNINTELLIGIBLE) Olympics, well, this is in Britain, and they train hard, too.

MYERS: Shin-kicking.

COSTELLO: Shin-kicking. This is shin-kicking. Competitors...

MYERS: You've got to be careful how you say that.

COSTELLO: That's right, shin-kicking. You can actually stuff your pants with straw to protect yourself.

MYERS: Careful!

COSTELLO: But, you see, you just kick each other until one of you falls down or breaks a leg.

MYERS: Oh, that's great.

COSTELLO: That's a really beautiful sport.

Dog lovers in America have already figured it out. Pets need protection from the sun, too.

MYERS: Yes.

COSTELLO: So, now doggles are catching on in Europe. Look at the doggles. The doggie goggles come in all shapes and sizes and cost between 20 and 50 bucks a pair.

MYERS: You can find them online or even at PetSmart.

COSTELLO: My dog would break those in a second.

Want a piece of history? An auction of Titanic memorabilia next week include a deck chair, a teacup, a saucer, and a section of the sunken ocean liner's grand staircase. It will also include more (UNINTELLIGIBLE) items like a photo of a woman in a coffin who died on the Titanic.

MYERS: Yes, yes, that's strange.

COSTELLO: Very strange.

That's it for us this morning. I'm Carol Costello along with Chad Myers. "AMERICAN MORNING" starts right now.

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