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CNN Live Sunday

Vice President Cheney Arrives In New York; Protesters March Past Madison Square Garden; Greek Olympics End In Big Success

Aired August 29, 2004 - 16:00   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.


FREDRICKA WHITFIELD, CNN ANCHOR: Making waves at Ellis Island, New York's entry point for Vice President Cheney and friends ahead of the Republican National Convention while former President Clinton uses the pulpit for a little lecturing.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

WILLIAM CLINTON, FORMER U.S. PRESIDENT: I ask you not to talk about them the way they so often talk about us. Don't say they're weak and don't say they're bad. That's wrong.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

WHITFIELD: Strong words to the Democrats but even stronger to the Republicans. More on his Sunday sermon later on in the show.

And when was the last time you did this? Dodgeball makes a comeback, at least in Los Angeles. Hello and welcome to CNN LIVE SUNDAY. I'm Fredricka Whitfield. All of that and more after this check of the headlines now in the news.

Al Jazeera reports Taliban officials have claimed responsibility for a deadly blast in Afghanistan, an explosion at a house in Kabul killed ten people, four of them Americans. It appears the U.S. based security company Dyncorp was targeted. It has a police training facility in the district where the blast occurred.

On the eve of his convention President Bush is campaigning in West Virginia. This is his seventh visit to the state this year, surrounded by people wearing steel workers for Bush t-shirts. The president promised to carry West Virginia again. The steel workers' unions have endorsed, however, John Kerry.

The governor of South Carolina has declared a state of emergency. Tropical Storm Gaston blew in to Charleston today, snapping trees and power lines. Thousands of peole are without electricity. We'll have more on this story with a live report in about ten minutes.

For now, we begin in New York. The stages are set at Madison Square Garden where Republican delegates are poised to converge tomorrow. But right now, throughout Manhattan, thousands of protestors have clogged the streets, most of them expressing anti-Bush policy views. We have reporters stationed along the way. Our Jason Carroll is in Midtown. And CNN's Alina Cho is in Central Park.

This massive march is organized by a group called for United for Peace and Justice. Leaders say they expect up to quarter of a million people to take part. Over this week alone, about 800 different groups are expected to be in town to highlight their disapproval of the Bush administration. Here is a look at the route right now the marchers are expected to take today in the Big Apple along Seventh Avenue and all the way up to Central Park. Let's begin with Jason Carroll on the protest. Jason?

JASON CARROLL, CNN CORRESPONDENT: Fredricka, (UNINTELLIGIBLE) for the past four hours (UNINTELLIGIBLE).

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

CARROLL (voice-over): Democracy in action on the streets of New York Sunday. Taking the form of a massive protest stretching several city blocks.

Demonstrators carried banners, shouted and chanted anti-Bush slogans as they marched past Madison Square Garden, site of the Republican National Convention which begins Monday. The organizers, United for Peace and Justice, are anti-war but they also represent other groups, some are pro labor, pro environment, all wanting Republicans and the world to hear their message.

UNDIENTIFIED FEMALE: We stand for peace and democracy. That's what we came out here for. The Bush administration does not stand for that. We want people to know across this country there are millions of people here, millions of people abroad that will not put up with an administration that does not promote democracy both locally, nationally and abroad.

CARROLL: Democracy in action, here, too, inside the Garden where Republicans will deliver their message in the coming days when they say won't be drowned out by the shouts of dissenters outside.

TERRY HOLT, BUSH/CHENEY SPOKESMAN: That's what this country is going to war against terror about, the right to freely associate. These folks coming to the convention are enthusiastic to be here, to hear the President and how he's going to lead us into the future. I don't think they are intimidated at all. I think they're excited.

CARROLL: But for hours, angry marchers came their way, by the tens of thousands.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: I paid with my son's life for coming here today and saying, Bush lied and who died? My son. A beautiful 972 American boys and girls.

CARROLL: At one point confronted by a small group of pro Bush demonstrators. Thousands of New York City police on the watch ready in the event of trouble.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Four more years!

(END VIDEOTAPE)

WHITFIELD: And that was Jason Carroll. All this and the main event has even begun yet. The Republican National Convention starts tomorrow. Last-minute preparations are under way and security is tight. CNN national correspondent Bob Franken joins us now from New York outside Madison Square Garden -- Bob.

BOB FRANKEN, CNN CORRESPONDENT: And as significant as the security concerns were for the demonstration, the real concern is because of fears of a possible attempt, at least, of a terrorist attack. And for that reason, there are thousands of security people. Wherever you look. Heavily armed policeman and, of course, ones that you don't see, 66 different law enforcement agencies, the sound of sirens like the one you hear now are going on all the time. This is a very, very heavily reinforced city right now.

New York, of course, is not even used to anything like this. They're used to just about everything here. It is the Republican National Convention. It begins tomorrow at Madison Square Garden.

In back of me, the official business, of course, to re-nominate the President and Vice President. President Bush is out of town right now, but the Vice President is here. He arrived earlier today. He went to Ellis Island, which, of course, has so much symbolic value. And he talked about the big party pitch.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

DICK CHENEY, VICE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES: All of us are gathering this week for one reason and one reason only, and that is to make certain that George W. Bush is president for the next four years.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

FRANKEN: And George W. Bush, who wants to make certain of that himself, was busy campaigning in West Virginia today, saying that he was hunting for votes. The hunt will take him to New York where he makes a Thursday night speech, a speech on a stage, theater in the round, something a little bit different and then it's time for a campaign which promises to be as rough as one we've seen in a long time -- Fredricka.

WHITFIELD: Bob, the Vice President alluded to this, the symbolism of his journey. But this entire convention, isn't it as much about symbolism for New York City as it is about politics?

FRANKEN: Well, as a matter of fact, the Democrats complain that the choice of New York and its proximity to September 11 is really an effort to exploit the terrorist attacks for political purposes. The Republicans say there is no exploitation, but they certainly are not shying away from reminding people of what they believe was George W. Bush's most shining hour, his response to 9/11.

WHITFIELD: And what about, Bob, the argument that this convention is taking place in a city that is mostly Democratic and how many Democrats in the city are not necessarily too happy about the notion of all these Republicans in town? FRANKEN: Well, the Republican mayor probably speaks for everybody and the former Republican mayor. Everybody in the GOP saying, so what?

WHITFIELD: All right. Very frank, just like a New Yorker. All right. Thanks a lot, Bob.

FRANKEN: You talking to me?

WHITFIELD: I'm talking to you. All right. Thanks a lot.

Well, back to the protests that are taking place throughout the streets of Manhattan. Our Alina Cho is in Central Park where many of those protesting throughout Seventh Avenue, along the route, are going to end up right there behind you, Alina.

ALINA CHO, CNN CORRESPONDENT: That's right. In fact, Fredricka, despite the fact that protestors were denied a permit to rally here in Central Park, now that the march has ended many have made their way here to the great lawn. Some of them said they broke off from the march early because they were simply hot and hungry and wanted a place to relax, a place that was cooler.

Some people made it all the way to the end of the march and then came here to the Park. Many people said it was important for them to make it past Madison Square Garden, at the very least, which is, of course, is the site of the Republican National Convention which, of course, kicks off tomorrow.

It is hard to say exactly how many people are here, but if you take a look behind me, it is safe to say that there are several hundred people here, at least by our count, at least a dozen groups represented with as many causes, all of them united against President Bush.

Two such people who are joining us now are Rich and Jane Neeson(ph) and their 2-year-old son, Sam, from New York City who has quite an appropriate shirt on today, "Bye-bye George W." Why are you out here today, Rich?

RICH NEESON, ACTIVIST: Primarily not to protest anything but support our rights as American citizens, to speak for ourselves in terms of the future of our son's future. He has no say yet. You know, we'll be fine no matter how the election comes out. He needs to have a future that we can support and be proud of.

CHO: Now Jane, you were at the march. You left a bit early because of your son. Why was it important for you to come to the Park today?

JANE NEESON, ACTIVIST: We wanted to basically gather with other like-minded people and to quietly be in support of change.

CHO: You wanted to prove a point, right, as well?

JANE NEESON: Yes. CHO: Despite the fact...

JANE NEESON: But not as a big demonstration, but, yes, that we're here. It is a peaceful rally.

CHO: Right.

JANE NEESON: Not, you know, something that they were so afraid of.

RICH NEESON: It's important that everybody realize the Park is for everybody. Regardless of your point of view. Regardless of a permit. The Hyde Park Corner in London exists every Sunday(ph) for people to express their points of view. Today is no different for us here in New York. And with the Republican National Convention hours away I think it is important that we all be heard, both sides. I think in Boston they kept people away and that was wrong. I think the New York City police and the administration, you know may have gone about it the wrong way but the people ultimately win by being able to march, by being able to gather and our voices need to be heard.

CHO: I thought it was interesting you said earlier you're sort of supporting John Kerry by default?

FRED NEESON: Well, I don't think he has all the answers. I don't think any politician does. But there are very clearly two different visions for the future of America in this campaign. And I can't support the one that's ongoing right now. So I must support the other one. And I don't see any other fringe candidates as having a real opportunity. I regret that. I say that I regret that third- party candidates can't exist at this point in time. But it is too important of an election for that.

CHO: Rich and Jane of New York City, we thank you for joining us on this hot day and we thank your two-year-old son Sam as well.

It is hard to say as the day progresses how many more people will come to the Park. The heat definitely is a factor today. It is also interesting to note, Fredricka, there are a lot of people out here sunbathing and enjoying what otherwise would be a typical Sunday weekend day in August -- Fredricka.

WHITFIELD: And at Central Park, no less. As usual. All right. Alina Cho. Thanks so much.

Well, how will Manhattan handle the influx of visitors? You have a Republican convention, you've got baseball games in town as well as the U.S. Open tennis this week. We're going to talk about security concerns when is we come back with one of the city's former leading police officers.

And up next, the latest on Tropical Storm Gaston.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

WHITFIELD: Tropical Storm Gaston whips across the South Carolina coastline near Charleston. The city is still cleaning up from Hurricane Charley which hit earlier this month and now residents are dealing with new worries. South Carolina's governor has declared a state of emergency and thousands are without power. Trees are down and there are scattered reports of damage. Erin Kinslow (ph) with our affiliate WCSC is live with the latest and is joining us from Kingstree, South Carolina -- Erin.

ERIN KINSLOW, WCSC REPORTER: Well, that's right. I'm in Kingstree which is about an hour to the northwest of Charleston. And no one here expected this much rain with Gaston. You can see here as I step very carefully, I'm only going to put one foot in the water because it is just gushing down the streets and it is very powerful.

When it all is said and done, it is expected that we could see 10 inches of rainfall. Back up this way, two blocks, that is downtown Kingstree. I am told that that is heavily flooded. And with the wind blowing, it just continues to blow down this street, gushing and pouring. A good soaking rain all the way down that way where we're starting to see ponding at the end of that street, as well.

So, very heavy downpours. The winds aren't as bad as they were. They are starting to die. But the rain continues. So for right now in Kingstree, South Carolina the main threat is flooding. I'm Erin Kinslow in Kingstree, Fredricka, I'll send it back to you.

WHITFIELD: Alright, Erin, thanks so much.

Well, what is next for Gaston? Our meteorologist Jacqui Jeras is tracking that storm and another one also brewing out there in the Atlantic. Jacqui?

JACQUI JERAS, CNN CORRESPONDENT: Yes. We are concerned mostly about the flooding right now, also the threat of tornadoes. Not too far away from Florence, right now. Most of the heavy rain is going to be pushing in here in the next couple hours.

We do have Doppler radar estimates of between 10 and 12 inches of rain in northern Berkeley County. That's right around the Lake Moultrie area. And there have been some evacuations there as well. The winds, maximum sustained, 45 miles per hour.

But that was a couple hours ago. More weakening can be expected but gusts of 40, 50 miles an hour can be expected, I think, for the next couple of hours. Flash flood watches are in effect throughout the eastern Carolinas. It does even include the Raleigh area. An additional 3 to 5 inches on top of what you already have with some isolated areas getting a little bit more rainfall.

Now we've had a number of tornado warnings on and off throughout the morning into the afternoon hours. The tornado watch in effect along the I-95 corridor until 10:00 for tonight. Only one touchdown with minor damage in central North Carolina. That was early this morning. But do take this seriously as tornadoes are very common in tropical systems like this.

Expecting further weakening as Gaston moves across the Carolinas heading towards the Delmarva by late in the day or near Monday and then heading towards Cape Cod on Tuesday morning. And we will continue to see rain bands along with this and also some rough surf. We are going to see beach erosion.

I want you to take a look. Here is a nice satellite picture of Gaston. But take a look at that. Kind of interesting, isn't it? The National Hurricane Center is monitoring this one. We might need to see advisories later on for today. That's about 300 miles away from the South Carolina coastline, and it is moving in that direction.

Also, Frances out there still off to the east of the Leeward Islands. This is a major hurricane Category 4, packing winds of 135 miles per hour, moving off to the west. This is the extended forecast. This goes out to your Thursday. And so all eyes are going to be watching Florida, maybe the Carolinas by the end of the week. Still way too early to tell what's going to be happening with Frances but something we want to watch closely over the next couple days -- Fredricka.

WHITFIELD: All right. Will do. Thanks a lot, Jacqui.

Well, look for intense passion on both sides as the Republicans descend upon New York City's Madison Square Garden. Mayor Michael Bloomberg says the city is prepared to protect the convention-goers and the protestors.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

MICHAEL BLOOMBERG, NEW YORK MAYOR: And what we're really trying to do is to roll out the red carpet for all our guests, the media, the Republican delegates and alternates, their families and for those who are here to protest peacefully. It has been peaceful, I think, in spite of all of the discourse and difficulty in getting everybody together. United for Peace and Justice has behaved responsibly as have virtually all of the marchers. There are a handful of people on bicycles that want to try to--not protest but to disrupt everybody else's rights, to block intersections so ambulances can't get through and we have no tolerance for that whatsoever. We'll enforce the law.

WHITFIELD: Well, the biggest security worry is the possibility of a terror attack. A variety of special precautions are being taken and extra police will, of course, be on duty. Miami police chief John Timoney has a lot of insight into this daunting job ahead for New York City. He's a veteran of the New York City police force. Good to see you, chief.

JOHN TIMONEY, MIAMI POLICE CHIEF: Good to see you, Fredricka.

WHITFIELD: Well, this is a huge challenge, not just because you have the convention in town, but you've got baseball games at home all during the week as well as the U.S. Open tennis which means you are attracting a real diverse crowd, real diverse interests. So how does the New York City police department also diversify its strategy?

TIMONEY: Well, the fortunate part is the New York City Police Department is the biggest in the nation and so they have got plenty of resources. And so they have dedicated 10,000 police officers to this event and hundreds others to Shea Stadium and to the tennis tournament. They will be fine. They're the best police department in America. They handle demonstrations on a daily basis in Manhattan because of UN and the other institutions. And so they're well prepared. Plus, they have in the last two or three decades three other conventions under their belt, including the 1992 convention.

WHITFIELD: You are very experienced with dealing with large, organized gatherings, whether it was in Philadelphia when you were there or New York City when you were there as well as in Miami. So given this experience and that you are pretty plugged in with the authorities in New York was there any consulting that they did of you to involve you in the process?

TIMONEY: No. I still have old friends there and we talk on the phone all the time. But they don't need my help. There is plenty of talent there. But we do discuss certain things. The difference here as compared to prior conventions, clearly in the post-9/11 world is the issue of terrorism.

Al Qaeda has said it is looking to strike American interests sometime before the election. And so for Commissioner Ray Kelly of the NYPD, the number one issue is terrorism or a terroristic act. Then, clearly, the idea of protests. So far today things have gone pretty well, maybe 50 arrests. It has gone rather peaceful. It should pick up more throughout the week. They'll have their hands filled. But there is no department better prepared and better trained than the NYPD to handle this.

WHITFIELD: So, then, how does the police force, then, try to strike a balance between enforcement and protection and intimidation because there are already charges from some of the protests that say, you know, they are being intimidated just merely by the police force.

TIMONEY: Yeah. And that comes up, by the way, all the time. Came up at the convention in Philadelphia in 2000. The police chiefs try to strike a balance. But your primary obligation is for the safety of the city, for property and personal injury. That's the number one priority.

Sometimes while you have tens of thousands of peaceful demonstrators, you may get a couple hundred of the so-called anarchists who come in with the sole intention of committing property damage, engaging in assaults on police officers and using the legitimate protestors as cover for their acts. So often the police may appear to be overly aggressive or in riot gear unnecessarily, but I can guarantee you the police department, Ray Kelly, thinks about those things way ahead of time and they're trying to strike a balance. As Mayor Bloomberg said in the prior peace, they have got an obligation to protect the overall city and its citizens.

WHITFIELD: You talk about the anarchists. There are many anarchist groups that are reporting to promise to protest as well as a number of groups who plan to protest without any sort of permit, so, then, how does the police force try to show some restraint at the same time protection? TIMONEY: Right. It's difficult. Particularly those that don't file the permits, that don't cooperate with the police. The initial posture on the part of the NYPD will not be to make arrests so long as they behave themselves, even though they don't have a permit. But it is really a game plan where you have to have a lot of flexibility. You're going to make these decisions, often on the fly. And depending on what the protestors do, the anarchists do, will develop a response from the NYPD.

WHITFIELD: Chief John Timoney from Miami, thanks so much.

TIMONEY: Thank you, Fredricka.

WHITFIELD: Well, law enforcement groups and the political heavyweights aren't the only ones gearing up for the convention.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: My job right now is tying the balloons.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

WHITFIELD: Up next, meet the high school band that's behind this year's balloon drop.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

WHITFIELD: Grammy-nominated singer Laura Branigan is dead. Branigan, best known for her hit "Gloria" died of a brain aneurysm at her New York home on Thursday. Laura Branigan was 47.

he Navy has a new destroyer, the USS Momsen. 300 crew members boarded the vessel yesterday after it was commissioned in Panama City, Florida. The ship is named for the late Vice Admiral Charles Momsen who is considered the father of the Navy's diving programs.

And happy birthday to the Internet. It was 35 years ago UCLA computer scientists helped create the electronic communications system. They linked together two bulky computers and exchanged data. That work led to e-mail and the World Wide Web.

And what about the creation of balloons? What would a political convention be without them? Hundreds of volunteers at the Republican convention are preparing for the big balloon drop. And they found it's not about hot air.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: My job right now is tying the balloons.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Never in a million years. Never in a million years did I think something like this would come about.

ZACH LOVELESS, STUDENT: We didn't go on a trip last year so this is a like a big thing. A lot of the workers(ph) are really excited. We all couldn't wait. UNIDENTIFIED MALE: One of the students in my band, her father is associated with Jeb Heining(ph) who is directing this whole balloon effort. And he came and said he was looking for a work force to come down and blow up a whole bunch of balloons.

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: It's hissing and you can't hear anything. You have to shout for everybody to hear you.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Watch your head. Watch your head.

UNIDENITIFIED FEMALE: It is everybody--you would think it would take a minute or something, but it takes a really long time. I'm going to be proud to tell my kids I blew up balloons for the President.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: This is not a political thing by any means. You will get a chance to see and learn something about the political process itself, be you Democrat or Republican or whatever. Doesn't matter.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

WHITFIELD: And CNN's senior political analyst Bill Schneider joins us in just a few minutes to talk all things RNC. We'll talk about what President Bush and the Republican Party need to accomplish in the week ahead.

And then, the lighter side of politics courtesy of Stewart, Letterman and, what's that, CNN? Late-night laughs coming up.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

WHITFIELD Here's what's happening now in the news. Americans killed in Afghanistan -- and explosion in downtown Kabul killed at least 10 people, including four Americans. The attack appeared to target the offices of DynCorp, a U.S. based security company. Al Jazeera is reporting the Taliban claimed responsibility for that blast.

Tropical Storm Gaston brings heavy rains and gusty winds to the Carolina coast. South Carolina's governor declared a state of emergency in the wake of the storm. Gaston came ashore this morning north of Charleston, uprooting trees, flooding roads and knocking out power lines for tens of thousands.

And tens of thousands of protestors are sending their messages to President Bush today. They're marching through the streets of Manhattan, protesting the Iraq war and other Bush administration policies. Among the protestors, filmmaker and outspoken Bush critic Michael Moore, who told the crowd the majority of the country opposes the war. And coming up soon, political analyst Bill Schneider will be joining us to talk a little bit about the insight of the Republican Convention.

Well, today is the last day of the Athens Olympics. The question now, was it all worth it for Athens? (BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: It's like a big wedding and a reception, and you have spent quite a bit of money for the caviar and the champagne. And then, suddenly, reality sinks in. How much did I spend for this reception?

(END VIDEO CLIP)

WHITFIELD: CNN's Michael Holmes has the story live from Athens. And then, a little something for the kid in all of us -- dodge ball. A walk down memory lane, coming up.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

WHITFIELD: The Republican Convention and all the events that surround it are prime material for political analysts. So we turn to our very own Bill Schneider, and he joins us from Madison Square Garden in New York. Good to see you, Bill.

WILLIAM SCHNEIDER, CNN SENIOR POLITICAL ANALYST: Hi there, Fredricka.

WHITFIELD: Well, massive remarkable protests taking place on the eve of an incumbent party's convention. The Republicans have a theory, don't they, of who just might be up to all this?

SCHNEIDER: Well, the Republicans are saying -- and this is the line you're hearing -- that this is really the Democratic campaign, the protests you're seeing on the streets of New York. They know very well that John Kerry, when he came back from Vietnam, became a leader of the antiwar movement. That was Vietnam. But the protestors here in New York are also antiwar.

They're anti the Iraq war. So they believe that the protests, particularly if they become disruptive, could give Republicans the opening they need to turn attention away from Kerry's war record to his antiwar record. So they're pushing the line. That's the Kerry campaign out there in the streets of New York.

WHITFIELD: On the flipside, however, though, there are Republicans that are expressing some concern that all of these protests may reveal or, in some way, they believe, underscore that Bush is not a unifier, but instead, a very divisive person.

SCHNEIDER: Well, that's also a possibility. Just like in Chicago, when there were protests against the Democratic Party, a lot of voters concluded to reelect the Democrats would be asking for trouble. What the protests could also symbolize to many voters is that President Bush has been a very divisive president. Despite his promise, in 2000, that he would be a uniter not a divider, the country is more divided than ever. So the protests could symbolize that division.

WHITFIELD: All right, well, let's talk about the lineup of some of those scheduled to speak and what it all means -- real emphasis on these moderate conservatives like Arnold Schwarzenegger, John McCain. What's the psychology of this?

SCHNEIDER: The psychology is that this is supposed to be a divided country -- two Americas, red and blue. Are there any figures out there who appeal to both Republicans and Democrats? Yes, you can name them with the fingers on one hand: John McCain, Rudy Giuliani, Arnold Schwarzenegger, even Laura Bush. They all appeal to Democrats as well as Republicans.

That's very rare. And you know what? All of them, every one of them, is a featured speaker at the Republican Convention to try to create the impression this is not a party that divides the country. This is a party that unites the country.

WHITFIELD: And let's talk about a Democrat, a real Democrat who really does get a lot of attention all the time, former President Bill Clinton -- taking to the pulpit there in New York today, who tried to define what he believes the real reality check is. Let's listen.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

CLINTON: The other party about to convene here, putting on its once every four years compassionate face, has -- when they go back to Washington, it's a different deal. It's run by the right wing southerners in the House and Senate, and those lobbying groups and their allies in the White House and the administration.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

WHITFIELD: For how long might Bill Clinton be the one taking the center stage while Kerry seems to be taking backstage for a minute?

SCHNEIDER: Well, it's very unusual for a former president to make that kind of a statement on the eve of the other party's convention. I think they're very angry. They're angry about the attacks on John Kerry and his war record. What Clinton was saying is the face of the Republican Party at this convention -- compassionate he called it at one point -- their campaign face isn't the real face of a very conservative party.

And he's right. The convention is a show, but it was also a show for the Democrats. The Democrats are a liberal party. They're a party that, in the past, has been very antiwar. And yet, their convention last month in Boston was a celebration of military values and a celebration of Kerry's war record in a war, Vietnam, that most Democrats hated. Both parties are putting on a show. That's what a convention is.

WHITFIELD: Well, John Kerry, will he be kind of laying low through all of this throughout the week, do you expect?

SCHNEIDER: I don't think so. I think he's speaking to a convention this week. I think he's going to be in evidence. While he won't be out there trying to steal the spotlight -- he can't -- I think these days, both parties know that this is an all out war. Republicans were in evidence during the Democratic Convention, and the Democrats are here, including the chairman of their party, including Bill and Hillary Clinton.

She's, of course, the senator from New York. They are here, very much in evidence. The war never stops.

WHITFIELD: And as you say, this war, of sorts, officially beings tomorrow. Bill Schneider outside Madison Square Garden, thanks so much. Well, the laugh meisters of late night TV are having a bit of pre-convention fun of their own. Democrats, Republicans, or independents -- all are potential targets. Here's a sample.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

THE LATE SHOW WITH DAVID LETTERMAN: CBS is going to have like a reality version, like the real thing of Gilligan's Island. They've already cast it. They've got the bumbling goofball. They've got the millionaire -- oh, no, wait a minute, that's the Bush-Cheney ticket...

THE DAILY SHOW WITH JON STEWART: Thank you so much for coming to the program.

SEN. JOHN KERRY, (D), PRES. CANDIDATE: I'm glad to be here.

STEWART: Seriously? Mom, you better be recording this.

JIMMY KIMMEL: Watch the lady in the hat...

STEWART: Is it true that every time I use ketchup, your wife gets a nickel? Tell me the truth. I want the truth.

KERRY: Would that it were, would that it were. But use the ketchup a lot anyway.

STEWART: I'll do what I can, sir.

LATE NIGHT WITH CRAIG KILBORN: A fan comes up and says, "We prefer your style." All I can say is, ah, shucks. We have something in common. So do I. A toast to those of you with good taste... proud of you.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

WHITFIELD: Well, no laughing matters here. Here's some news around the world. French President Jacques Chirac is urging Islamic militants to release two French journalists they're holding hostage in Iraq. France's foreign minister is on his way to the region to try to secure their freedom. According to Al Jazeera Arab Television, the Islamic militants are demanding France revoke its controversial ban on Muslim headscarves in public schools in France.

Near the northern Iraqi city of Mosul, violent clashes broke out between U.S. forces and armed insurgents earlier today. The multinational forces say 34 civilians were wounded, 26 of them women and children. Two attackers were killed.

And amidst some violence, voters in Chechnya headed to the polls seeking a replacement for their assassinated regional president and a better economy. Unemployment is near 75 percent. A man was killed when he tried to blow up a polling station. There were no other casualties.

Athens is smiling brightly tonight. Despite terror fears earlier and many skeptics, the city pulled off a very successful Olympics. The competition wrapped up today with the United States ahead of the world pack. The U.S. grabbed a total of 103 medals, 35 of them gold. Russia got 92 medals overall, 27 gold, and China took home 63 medals in all, 32 of them gold. CNN's Michael Holmes joins us live from Athens with the very latest. Michael...

MICHAEL HOLMES, CNN CORRESPONDENT: Hi, Fredricka, yeah, good result there for the United States. It was more than they actually thought they'd get when they came here. They set a target of 100, and they did exceed that well. Just concluding a short time ago and extraordinary ceremony for these Athens 2004 games. What a period it's been.

There was a stunning fireworks display, a display of Greek traditional dancing and music. We also saw China put on a display too. Of course, the flag being handed over to Beijing for the next Olympics in 2008. Also, a nice review too from the IOC President Jacques Rogue (ph), who said, "You have won. You have won by brilliantly meeting the tough challenge of holding the games. These were unforgettable dream games," he said.

High praise and well deserved. But let's remember that only a week or two, or a couple of months even before these games began, people were wondering whether it would ever come off without a whole lot of trouble.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

(voice-over): After an Olympics, a host city will often suffer a case of post-games blues -- the questions of whether the cost, the inconvenience was worth it.

UNIDENTIFIED MAN: It's like a big wedding and a reception, and you have spent quite a bit of money for the caviar and the champagne. And then, suddenly, reality sinks in. How much did I spend for this reception?

HOLMES: A lot, as it turned out. Greece had much going against it preparing for these Olympics. It is a small country. Construction was way behind schedule. Terror fears left many empty seats. Costs ballooned. The final bill might be more than $10 billion.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: On the minor side, there will be those who say we robbed from welfare or education. The plus side, there will be a feeling of self-congratulation, that we can do a very challenging, a very big thing.

HOLMES: And as the Olympic juggernaut begins its journey to Beijing, there is much of which Greeks can be proud. They reached the gold for ticket sales. Massive infrastructure projects for the games will be around for decades to come. Traffic was better than expected. They even had a terrific Web site.

GIANNA ANGELOPOULOS, PRES. ATHENS ORGANIZING CMTE.: We showed a new country, a modern country, a country that can be competent and competitive, and we're all very proud that we did it.

HOLMES: And then, there were the performances. America's Michael Phelps and his eight medals equal to the best ever single games performance. Ian Thorpe became Australia's most successful Olympian. The Iraqi soccer team becoming the new dream team of the Olympics. Doping was an issue, for sure, especially for the host nation, when its two darlings of the Sydney games, Kostas Kenteris and Katerina Thanou pulled out after missing a drug test.

Twice as many athletes broke Olympic doping rules, as in Sydney, but testing is probably twice as effective, and so more were sure to be caught. But perhaps the biggest buzzword at least prior to Athens 2004 was security -- the biggest security operation at any Olympics. Security concerns probably stopped many tourists from coming, which was a shame. This was probably the safest city in the world these past two weeks.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: I believe that in the long run, this will have turned the corner for Greece. This will have established the image of a Greece that is no longer poor, that is advanced, that's part of the Western world.

HOLMES: Now comes the push to take advantage of the games long term.

DIMITRIS AVRAMOPOULOS, GREEK TOURISM MINISTER: We want the tourists and the spectators of the games to become the best ambassadors of Greece for the future.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: I feel that I was worried up to now. I was holding my breath up to this minute. But then I saw these new venues. I saw the traffic moving smoothly. I saw these fantastic facilities. And believe me, I was amazed that organization and Greece are no longer an oxymoron.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

HOLMES: There was no shortage of people who thought that Greece might hold a games memorable for the wrong reasons, perhaps. But everybody now saying at the end of these 16 days of competition they deserve a gold medal. Fredricka, speaking of medals, the marathon is the last medal awarded, the 301st medal, and what a bizarre incident occurring during that race.

Vanderlei de Lima of Brazil was leading. There was just a few miles to go when a 57-year-old Irishman, a defrocked priest no less, came running out of the crowd wearing a kilt and a green beret and actually tackled him. It only lasted a few seconds, and Vandelay Lima was able to regain the lead, but he didn't hold it for long.

He ended up with the bronze medal, and the gold was won by Stefano Baldini of Italy, the U.S. taking silver by the way. But it was a bizarre situation. The Brazilian team asked if he could be given a gold medal as a recognition of what he'd gone through and whether it might have affected his performance. They said no to that, but they did give him an award of sportsmanship. So an odd ending to that race, Fredricka.

WHITFIELD: Oh, odd indeed, no kidding. Well, I'm glad he at least medalled, though, after all of that. You know, you talk about, at first, those empty seats, and then, toward the end of the games, those seats started to fill up. Is it believed that many of the locals decided to scoop up those seats at the last minute, making for sold out crowds across the board?

HOLMES: Yeah, it is, actually. I think a lot more Greeks started buying tickets. Many of them, of course -- we reported on this a few times too -- there was the annual August vacation. Greeks aren't going to stop their vacation for anything. And a lot of them were on the islands. They came back at the end of that first week, and they did turnout in numbers.

It was really a terrific Olympics when we look back, Fredricka, on what could have gone wrong, what people worried about. And at the end of the day, the Greeks really held a terrific show.

WHITFIELD: All right, indeed, it was beautiful. I think everyone got a chance to enjoy it, whether it was watching it at home or being lucky like yourself and being there. Michael Holmes, thanks so much.

HOLMES: Someone has to do it.

WHITFIELD: Someone's got to do it. All right, thanks a lot. Well, maybe you were the kid who was always picked on in gym class. Well, it could be the time for a little revenge.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

UNIDENTIFIED MAN: If you were the chubby kid who was picked last, maybe you've grown into an Adonis. If you were, you know, the goofy kid with glasses, maybe you've had lasik eye surgery.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

WHITIFIELD: Hated being the last kid picked -- the dodgeball comeback, coming up next.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

WHITFIELD: Were you always the one picked last for sports? Or maybe you just had a bad day and you need to get out some frustrations. Whatever the reasons, a rediscovered game could be the perfect way to get rid of some aggression and have fun.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

MICHAEL COSTANZA, LA DODGEBALL SOCIETY FOUNDER: My name is Michael Costanza, and I'm the founder of the Los Angeles Dodgeball Society. Our group was founded out of the necessity to have something for guys and girls to do that's just fun, something that's not so sports driven, ultra competitive... you don't have to be the best athlete. It's mainly suited for the average Joe.

UNIDENTIFIED MAN: Dodgeball, it's great because you get to go out here and pretend like you're a kid and like just get all your aggressions out.

COSTANZA: A lot of people, probably, the last time they played was in elementary school, so a lot's happened. If you were the chubby kid who was picked last, maybe you've grown into an Adonis. If you were, you know, the goofy kid with glasses, maybe you've had lasik eye surgery.

UNIDENTIFIED MAN: Childhood memories suck, because you were never picked on a team and you always got out, and it was always a fully oriented court. And here, it's a lot more egalitarian.

COSTANZA: For a lot of people, it possibly is a chance for redemption to come back and correct all the traumas or the, you know, Paradise Lost type things from elementary school. Groups started very modestly. We've gone from 8 in the course of a year to over 600 people that are active in the group that come out and play at least once a month. We've grown a pretty collective group.

We have guys who are the lead singers for punk rock bands, actors, computer programmers... we've got quite a few attorneys, teachers, doctors.

UNIDENTIFIED MAN: The first day he came out, everybody's like, "Oh, yeah, Hulk Hogan's here, let's get him."

UNIDENTIFIED MAN: It's like getting the president out, like you've really taken some power back, you know, for people.

COSTANZA: I think the idea for a dodgeball group came out of my upbringing. The one thing I remembered about it is it was something where anybody on the court has the ability to take out the strongest player. So the weakest player isn't completely useless.

UNIDENTIFIED MAN: I am the crappiest player on the planet. I'm awful. But I do a great job of distracting people.

COSTANZA: (UNINTELLIGIBLE) started up probably a dozen groups like nationwide, and a lot of it kind of ties into the same reasons that we're having fun doing it, because it reminds you of a simpler time where your biggest fear in the world was, you know, I've got a science quiz or, you know, spelling B type thing. So it definitely helps keep you grounded.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

WHITFIELD: Ouch. That looks a little mean-spirited. All right, that's it for us. "NEXT@CNN" is coming up with a look at the latest back to school gadgets. At 6 Eastern, CNN LIVE SUNDAY continues with Carol Lin. She'll talk with Michael Touret (ph) about tonight's video music awards. And tonight on "PEOPLE IN THE NEWS," a look at Vice President Dick Cheney and First Lady Laura Bush, all expected to speak this week at the Republican National Convention.

Thanks for joining us. Back to the headlines right after a quick break.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

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Aired August 29, 2004 - 16:00   ET
THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.
FREDRICKA WHITFIELD, CNN ANCHOR: Making waves at Ellis Island, New York's entry point for Vice President Cheney and friends ahead of the Republican National Convention while former President Clinton uses the pulpit for a little lecturing.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

WILLIAM CLINTON, FORMER U.S. PRESIDENT: I ask you not to talk about them the way they so often talk about us. Don't say they're weak and don't say they're bad. That's wrong.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

WHITFIELD: Strong words to the Democrats but even stronger to the Republicans. More on his Sunday sermon later on in the show.

And when was the last time you did this? Dodgeball makes a comeback, at least in Los Angeles. Hello and welcome to CNN LIVE SUNDAY. I'm Fredricka Whitfield. All of that and more after this check of the headlines now in the news.

Al Jazeera reports Taliban officials have claimed responsibility for a deadly blast in Afghanistan, an explosion at a house in Kabul killed ten people, four of them Americans. It appears the U.S. based security company Dyncorp was targeted. It has a police training facility in the district where the blast occurred.

On the eve of his convention President Bush is campaigning in West Virginia. This is his seventh visit to the state this year, surrounded by people wearing steel workers for Bush t-shirts. The president promised to carry West Virginia again. The steel workers' unions have endorsed, however, John Kerry.

The governor of South Carolina has declared a state of emergency. Tropical Storm Gaston blew in to Charleston today, snapping trees and power lines. Thousands of peole are without electricity. We'll have more on this story with a live report in about ten minutes.

For now, we begin in New York. The stages are set at Madison Square Garden where Republican delegates are poised to converge tomorrow. But right now, throughout Manhattan, thousands of protestors have clogged the streets, most of them expressing anti-Bush policy views. We have reporters stationed along the way. Our Jason Carroll is in Midtown. And CNN's Alina Cho is in Central Park.

This massive march is organized by a group called for United for Peace and Justice. Leaders say they expect up to quarter of a million people to take part. Over this week alone, about 800 different groups are expected to be in town to highlight their disapproval of the Bush administration. Here is a look at the route right now the marchers are expected to take today in the Big Apple along Seventh Avenue and all the way up to Central Park. Let's begin with Jason Carroll on the protest. Jason?

JASON CARROLL, CNN CORRESPONDENT: Fredricka, (UNINTELLIGIBLE) for the past four hours (UNINTELLIGIBLE).

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

CARROLL (voice-over): Democracy in action on the streets of New York Sunday. Taking the form of a massive protest stretching several city blocks.

Demonstrators carried banners, shouted and chanted anti-Bush slogans as they marched past Madison Square Garden, site of the Republican National Convention which begins Monday. The organizers, United for Peace and Justice, are anti-war but they also represent other groups, some are pro labor, pro environment, all wanting Republicans and the world to hear their message.

UNDIENTIFIED FEMALE: We stand for peace and democracy. That's what we came out here for. The Bush administration does not stand for that. We want people to know across this country there are millions of people here, millions of people abroad that will not put up with an administration that does not promote democracy both locally, nationally and abroad.

CARROLL: Democracy in action, here, too, inside the Garden where Republicans will deliver their message in the coming days when they say won't be drowned out by the shouts of dissenters outside.

TERRY HOLT, BUSH/CHENEY SPOKESMAN: That's what this country is going to war against terror about, the right to freely associate. These folks coming to the convention are enthusiastic to be here, to hear the President and how he's going to lead us into the future. I don't think they are intimidated at all. I think they're excited.

CARROLL: But for hours, angry marchers came their way, by the tens of thousands.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: I paid with my son's life for coming here today and saying, Bush lied and who died? My son. A beautiful 972 American boys and girls.

CARROLL: At one point confronted by a small group of pro Bush demonstrators. Thousands of New York City police on the watch ready in the event of trouble.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Four more years!

(END VIDEOTAPE)

WHITFIELD: And that was Jason Carroll. All this and the main event has even begun yet. The Republican National Convention starts tomorrow. Last-minute preparations are under way and security is tight. CNN national correspondent Bob Franken joins us now from New York outside Madison Square Garden -- Bob.

BOB FRANKEN, CNN CORRESPONDENT: And as significant as the security concerns were for the demonstration, the real concern is because of fears of a possible attempt, at least, of a terrorist attack. And for that reason, there are thousands of security people. Wherever you look. Heavily armed policeman and, of course, ones that you don't see, 66 different law enforcement agencies, the sound of sirens like the one you hear now are going on all the time. This is a very, very heavily reinforced city right now.

New York, of course, is not even used to anything like this. They're used to just about everything here. It is the Republican National Convention. It begins tomorrow at Madison Square Garden.

In back of me, the official business, of course, to re-nominate the President and Vice President. President Bush is out of town right now, but the Vice President is here. He arrived earlier today. He went to Ellis Island, which, of course, has so much symbolic value. And he talked about the big party pitch.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

DICK CHENEY, VICE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES: All of us are gathering this week for one reason and one reason only, and that is to make certain that George W. Bush is president for the next four years.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

FRANKEN: And George W. Bush, who wants to make certain of that himself, was busy campaigning in West Virginia today, saying that he was hunting for votes. The hunt will take him to New York where he makes a Thursday night speech, a speech on a stage, theater in the round, something a little bit different and then it's time for a campaign which promises to be as rough as one we've seen in a long time -- Fredricka.

WHITFIELD: Bob, the Vice President alluded to this, the symbolism of his journey. But this entire convention, isn't it as much about symbolism for New York City as it is about politics?

FRANKEN: Well, as a matter of fact, the Democrats complain that the choice of New York and its proximity to September 11 is really an effort to exploit the terrorist attacks for political purposes. The Republicans say there is no exploitation, but they certainly are not shying away from reminding people of what they believe was George W. Bush's most shining hour, his response to 9/11.

WHITFIELD: And what about, Bob, the argument that this convention is taking place in a city that is mostly Democratic and how many Democrats in the city are not necessarily too happy about the notion of all these Republicans in town? FRANKEN: Well, the Republican mayor probably speaks for everybody and the former Republican mayor. Everybody in the GOP saying, so what?

WHITFIELD: All right. Very frank, just like a New Yorker. All right. Thanks a lot, Bob.

FRANKEN: You talking to me?

WHITFIELD: I'm talking to you. All right. Thanks a lot.

Well, back to the protests that are taking place throughout the streets of Manhattan. Our Alina Cho is in Central Park where many of those protesting throughout Seventh Avenue, along the route, are going to end up right there behind you, Alina.

ALINA CHO, CNN CORRESPONDENT: That's right. In fact, Fredricka, despite the fact that protestors were denied a permit to rally here in Central Park, now that the march has ended many have made their way here to the great lawn. Some of them said they broke off from the march early because they were simply hot and hungry and wanted a place to relax, a place that was cooler.

Some people made it all the way to the end of the march and then came here to the Park. Many people said it was important for them to make it past Madison Square Garden, at the very least, which is, of course, is the site of the Republican National Convention which, of course, kicks off tomorrow.

It is hard to say exactly how many people are here, but if you take a look behind me, it is safe to say that there are several hundred people here, at least by our count, at least a dozen groups represented with as many causes, all of them united against President Bush.

Two such people who are joining us now are Rich and Jane Neeson(ph) and their 2-year-old son, Sam, from New York City who has quite an appropriate shirt on today, "Bye-bye George W." Why are you out here today, Rich?

RICH NEESON, ACTIVIST: Primarily not to protest anything but support our rights as American citizens, to speak for ourselves in terms of the future of our son's future. He has no say yet. You know, we'll be fine no matter how the election comes out. He needs to have a future that we can support and be proud of.

CHO: Now Jane, you were at the march. You left a bit early because of your son. Why was it important for you to come to the Park today?

JANE NEESON, ACTIVIST: We wanted to basically gather with other like-minded people and to quietly be in support of change.

CHO: You wanted to prove a point, right, as well?

JANE NEESON: Yes. CHO: Despite the fact...

JANE NEESON: But not as a big demonstration, but, yes, that we're here. It is a peaceful rally.

CHO: Right.

JANE NEESON: Not, you know, something that they were so afraid of.

RICH NEESON: It's important that everybody realize the Park is for everybody. Regardless of your point of view. Regardless of a permit. The Hyde Park Corner in London exists every Sunday(ph) for people to express their points of view. Today is no different for us here in New York. And with the Republican National Convention hours away I think it is important that we all be heard, both sides. I think in Boston they kept people away and that was wrong. I think the New York City police and the administration, you know may have gone about it the wrong way but the people ultimately win by being able to march, by being able to gather and our voices need to be heard.

CHO: I thought it was interesting you said earlier you're sort of supporting John Kerry by default?

FRED NEESON: Well, I don't think he has all the answers. I don't think any politician does. But there are very clearly two different visions for the future of America in this campaign. And I can't support the one that's ongoing right now. So I must support the other one. And I don't see any other fringe candidates as having a real opportunity. I regret that. I say that I regret that third- party candidates can't exist at this point in time. But it is too important of an election for that.

CHO: Rich and Jane of New York City, we thank you for joining us on this hot day and we thank your two-year-old son Sam as well.

It is hard to say as the day progresses how many more people will come to the Park. The heat definitely is a factor today. It is also interesting to note, Fredricka, there are a lot of people out here sunbathing and enjoying what otherwise would be a typical Sunday weekend day in August -- Fredricka.

WHITFIELD: And at Central Park, no less. As usual. All right. Alina Cho. Thanks so much.

Well, how will Manhattan handle the influx of visitors? You have a Republican convention, you've got baseball games in town as well as the U.S. Open tennis this week. We're going to talk about security concerns when is we come back with one of the city's former leading police officers.

And up next, the latest on Tropical Storm Gaston.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

WHITFIELD: Tropical Storm Gaston whips across the South Carolina coastline near Charleston. The city is still cleaning up from Hurricane Charley which hit earlier this month and now residents are dealing with new worries. South Carolina's governor has declared a state of emergency and thousands are without power. Trees are down and there are scattered reports of damage. Erin Kinslow (ph) with our affiliate WCSC is live with the latest and is joining us from Kingstree, South Carolina -- Erin.

ERIN KINSLOW, WCSC REPORTER: Well, that's right. I'm in Kingstree which is about an hour to the northwest of Charleston. And no one here expected this much rain with Gaston. You can see here as I step very carefully, I'm only going to put one foot in the water because it is just gushing down the streets and it is very powerful.

When it all is said and done, it is expected that we could see 10 inches of rainfall. Back up this way, two blocks, that is downtown Kingstree. I am told that that is heavily flooded. And with the wind blowing, it just continues to blow down this street, gushing and pouring. A good soaking rain all the way down that way where we're starting to see ponding at the end of that street, as well.

So, very heavy downpours. The winds aren't as bad as they were. They are starting to die. But the rain continues. So for right now in Kingstree, South Carolina the main threat is flooding. I'm Erin Kinslow in Kingstree, Fredricka, I'll send it back to you.

WHITFIELD: Alright, Erin, thanks so much.

Well, what is next for Gaston? Our meteorologist Jacqui Jeras is tracking that storm and another one also brewing out there in the Atlantic. Jacqui?

JACQUI JERAS, CNN CORRESPONDENT: Yes. We are concerned mostly about the flooding right now, also the threat of tornadoes. Not too far away from Florence, right now. Most of the heavy rain is going to be pushing in here in the next couple hours.

We do have Doppler radar estimates of between 10 and 12 inches of rain in northern Berkeley County. That's right around the Lake Moultrie area. And there have been some evacuations there as well. The winds, maximum sustained, 45 miles per hour.

But that was a couple hours ago. More weakening can be expected but gusts of 40, 50 miles an hour can be expected, I think, for the next couple of hours. Flash flood watches are in effect throughout the eastern Carolinas. It does even include the Raleigh area. An additional 3 to 5 inches on top of what you already have with some isolated areas getting a little bit more rainfall.

Now we've had a number of tornado warnings on and off throughout the morning into the afternoon hours. The tornado watch in effect along the I-95 corridor until 10:00 for tonight. Only one touchdown with minor damage in central North Carolina. That was early this morning. But do take this seriously as tornadoes are very common in tropical systems like this.

Expecting further weakening as Gaston moves across the Carolinas heading towards the Delmarva by late in the day or near Monday and then heading towards Cape Cod on Tuesday morning. And we will continue to see rain bands along with this and also some rough surf. We are going to see beach erosion.

I want you to take a look. Here is a nice satellite picture of Gaston. But take a look at that. Kind of interesting, isn't it? The National Hurricane Center is monitoring this one. We might need to see advisories later on for today. That's about 300 miles away from the South Carolina coastline, and it is moving in that direction.

Also, Frances out there still off to the east of the Leeward Islands. This is a major hurricane Category 4, packing winds of 135 miles per hour, moving off to the west. This is the extended forecast. This goes out to your Thursday. And so all eyes are going to be watching Florida, maybe the Carolinas by the end of the week. Still way too early to tell what's going to be happening with Frances but something we want to watch closely over the next couple days -- Fredricka.

WHITFIELD: All right. Will do. Thanks a lot, Jacqui.

Well, look for intense passion on both sides as the Republicans descend upon New York City's Madison Square Garden. Mayor Michael Bloomberg says the city is prepared to protect the convention-goers and the protestors.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

MICHAEL BLOOMBERG, NEW YORK MAYOR: And what we're really trying to do is to roll out the red carpet for all our guests, the media, the Republican delegates and alternates, their families and for those who are here to protest peacefully. It has been peaceful, I think, in spite of all of the discourse and difficulty in getting everybody together. United for Peace and Justice has behaved responsibly as have virtually all of the marchers. There are a handful of people on bicycles that want to try to--not protest but to disrupt everybody else's rights, to block intersections so ambulances can't get through and we have no tolerance for that whatsoever. We'll enforce the law.

WHITFIELD: Well, the biggest security worry is the possibility of a terror attack. A variety of special precautions are being taken and extra police will, of course, be on duty. Miami police chief John Timoney has a lot of insight into this daunting job ahead for New York City. He's a veteran of the New York City police force. Good to see you, chief.

JOHN TIMONEY, MIAMI POLICE CHIEF: Good to see you, Fredricka.

WHITFIELD: Well, this is a huge challenge, not just because you have the convention in town, but you've got baseball games at home all during the week as well as the U.S. Open tennis which means you are attracting a real diverse crowd, real diverse interests. So how does the New York City police department also diversify its strategy?

TIMONEY: Well, the fortunate part is the New York City Police Department is the biggest in the nation and so they have got plenty of resources. And so they have dedicated 10,000 police officers to this event and hundreds others to Shea Stadium and to the tennis tournament. They will be fine. They're the best police department in America. They handle demonstrations on a daily basis in Manhattan because of UN and the other institutions. And so they're well prepared. Plus, they have in the last two or three decades three other conventions under their belt, including the 1992 convention.

WHITFIELD: You are very experienced with dealing with large, organized gatherings, whether it was in Philadelphia when you were there or New York City when you were there as well as in Miami. So given this experience and that you are pretty plugged in with the authorities in New York was there any consulting that they did of you to involve you in the process?

TIMONEY: No. I still have old friends there and we talk on the phone all the time. But they don't need my help. There is plenty of talent there. But we do discuss certain things. The difference here as compared to prior conventions, clearly in the post-9/11 world is the issue of terrorism.

Al Qaeda has said it is looking to strike American interests sometime before the election. And so for Commissioner Ray Kelly of the NYPD, the number one issue is terrorism or a terroristic act. Then, clearly, the idea of protests. So far today things have gone pretty well, maybe 50 arrests. It has gone rather peaceful. It should pick up more throughout the week. They'll have their hands filled. But there is no department better prepared and better trained than the NYPD to handle this.

WHITFIELD: So, then, how does the police force, then, try to strike a balance between enforcement and protection and intimidation because there are already charges from some of the protests that say, you know, they are being intimidated just merely by the police force.

TIMONEY: Yeah. And that comes up, by the way, all the time. Came up at the convention in Philadelphia in 2000. The police chiefs try to strike a balance. But your primary obligation is for the safety of the city, for property and personal injury. That's the number one priority.

Sometimes while you have tens of thousands of peaceful demonstrators, you may get a couple hundred of the so-called anarchists who come in with the sole intention of committing property damage, engaging in assaults on police officers and using the legitimate protestors as cover for their acts. So often the police may appear to be overly aggressive or in riot gear unnecessarily, but I can guarantee you the police department, Ray Kelly, thinks about those things way ahead of time and they're trying to strike a balance. As Mayor Bloomberg said in the prior peace, they have got an obligation to protect the overall city and its citizens.

WHITFIELD: You talk about the anarchists. There are many anarchist groups that are reporting to promise to protest as well as a number of groups who plan to protest without any sort of permit, so, then, how does the police force try to show some restraint at the same time protection? TIMONEY: Right. It's difficult. Particularly those that don't file the permits, that don't cooperate with the police. The initial posture on the part of the NYPD will not be to make arrests so long as they behave themselves, even though they don't have a permit. But it is really a game plan where you have to have a lot of flexibility. You're going to make these decisions, often on the fly. And depending on what the protestors do, the anarchists do, will develop a response from the NYPD.

WHITFIELD: Chief John Timoney from Miami, thanks so much.

TIMONEY: Thank you, Fredricka.

WHITFIELD: Well, law enforcement groups and the political heavyweights aren't the only ones gearing up for the convention.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: My job right now is tying the balloons.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

WHITFIELD: Up next, meet the high school band that's behind this year's balloon drop.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

WHITFIELD: Grammy-nominated singer Laura Branigan is dead. Branigan, best known for her hit "Gloria" died of a brain aneurysm at her New York home on Thursday. Laura Branigan was 47.

he Navy has a new destroyer, the USS Momsen. 300 crew members boarded the vessel yesterday after it was commissioned in Panama City, Florida. The ship is named for the late Vice Admiral Charles Momsen who is considered the father of the Navy's diving programs.

And happy birthday to the Internet. It was 35 years ago UCLA computer scientists helped create the electronic communications system. They linked together two bulky computers and exchanged data. That work led to e-mail and the World Wide Web.

And what about the creation of balloons? What would a political convention be without them? Hundreds of volunteers at the Republican convention are preparing for the big balloon drop. And they found it's not about hot air.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: My job right now is tying the balloons.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Never in a million years. Never in a million years did I think something like this would come about.

ZACH LOVELESS, STUDENT: We didn't go on a trip last year so this is a like a big thing. A lot of the workers(ph) are really excited. We all couldn't wait. UNIDENTIFIED MALE: One of the students in my band, her father is associated with Jeb Heining(ph) who is directing this whole balloon effort. And he came and said he was looking for a work force to come down and blow up a whole bunch of balloons.

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: It's hissing and you can't hear anything. You have to shout for everybody to hear you.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Watch your head. Watch your head.

UNIDENITIFIED FEMALE: It is everybody--you would think it would take a minute or something, but it takes a really long time. I'm going to be proud to tell my kids I blew up balloons for the President.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: This is not a political thing by any means. You will get a chance to see and learn something about the political process itself, be you Democrat or Republican or whatever. Doesn't matter.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

WHITFIELD: And CNN's senior political analyst Bill Schneider joins us in just a few minutes to talk all things RNC. We'll talk about what President Bush and the Republican Party need to accomplish in the week ahead.

And then, the lighter side of politics courtesy of Stewart, Letterman and, what's that, CNN? Late-night laughs coming up.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

WHITFIELD Here's what's happening now in the news. Americans killed in Afghanistan -- and explosion in downtown Kabul killed at least 10 people, including four Americans. The attack appeared to target the offices of DynCorp, a U.S. based security company. Al Jazeera is reporting the Taliban claimed responsibility for that blast.

Tropical Storm Gaston brings heavy rains and gusty winds to the Carolina coast. South Carolina's governor declared a state of emergency in the wake of the storm. Gaston came ashore this morning north of Charleston, uprooting trees, flooding roads and knocking out power lines for tens of thousands.

And tens of thousands of protestors are sending their messages to President Bush today. They're marching through the streets of Manhattan, protesting the Iraq war and other Bush administration policies. Among the protestors, filmmaker and outspoken Bush critic Michael Moore, who told the crowd the majority of the country opposes the war. And coming up soon, political analyst Bill Schneider will be joining us to talk a little bit about the insight of the Republican Convention.

Well, today is the last day of the Athens Olympics. The question now, was it all worth it for Athens? (BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: It's like a big wedding and a reception, and you have spent quite a bit of money for the caviar and the champagne. And then, suddenly, reality sinks in. How much did I spend for this reception?

(END VIDEO CLIP)

WHITFIELD: CNN's Michael Holmes has the story live from Athens. And then, a little something for the kid in all of us -- dodge ball. A walk down memory lane, coming up.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

WHITFIELD: The Republican Convention and all the events that surround it are prime material for political analysts. So we turn to our very own Bill Schneider, and he joins us from Madison Square Garden in New York. Good to see you, Bill.

WILLIAM SCHNEIDER, CNN SENIOR POLITICAL ANALYST: Hi there, Fredricka.

WHITFIELD: Well, massive remarkable protests taking place on the eve of an incumbent party's convention. The Republicans have a theory, don't they, of who just might be up to all this?

SCHNEIDER: Well, the Republicans are saying -- and this is the line you're hearing -- that this is really the Democratic campaign, the protests you're seeing on the streets of New York. They know very well that John Kerry, when he came back from Vietnam, became a leader of the antiwar movement. That was Vietnam. But the protestors here in New York are also antiwar.

They're anti the Iraq war. So they believe that the protests, particularly if they become disruptive, could give Republicans the opening they need to turn attention away from Kerry's war record to his antiwar record. So they're pushing the line. That's the Kerry campaign out there in the streets of New York.

WHITFIELD: On the flipside, however, though, there are Republicans that are expressing some concern that all of these protests may reveal or, in some way, they believe, underscore that Bush is not a unifier, but instead, a very divisive person.

SCHNEIDER: Well, that's also a possibility. Just like in Chicago, when there were protests against the Democratic Party, a lot of voters concluded to reelect the Democrats would be asking for trouble. What the protests could also symbolize to many voters is that President Bush has been a very divisive president. Despite his promise, in 2000, that he would be a uniter not a divider, the country is more divided than ever. So the protests could symbolize that division.

WHITFIELD: All right, well, let's talk about the lineup of some of those scheduled to speak and what it all means -- real emphasis on these moderate conservatives like Arnold Schwarzenegger, John McCain. What's the psychology of this?

SCHNEIDER: The psychology is that this is supposed to be a divided country -- two Americas, red and blue. Are there any figures out there who appeal to both Republicans and Democrats? Yes, you can name them with the fingers on one hand: John McCain, Rudy Giuliani, Arnold Schwarzenegger, even Laura Bush. They all appeal to Democrats as well as Republicans.

That's very rare. And you know what? All of them, every one of them, is a featured speaker at the Republican Convention to try to create the impression this is not a party that divides the country. This is a party that unites the country.

WHITFIELD: And let's talk about a Democrat, a real Democrat who really does get a lot of attention all the time, former President Bill Clinton -- taking to the pulpit there in New York today, who tried to define what he believes the real reality check is. Let's listen.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

CLINTON: The other party about to convene here, putting on its once every four years compassionate face, has -- when they go back to Washington, it's a different deal. It's run by the right wing southerners in the House and Senate, and those lobbying groups and their allies in the White House and the administration.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

WHITFIELD: For how long might Bill Clinton be the one taking the center stage while Kerry seems to be taking backstage for a minute?

SCHNEIDER: Well, it's very unusual for a former president to make that kind of a statement on the eve of the other party's convention. I think they're very angry. They're angry about the attacks on John Kerry and his war record. What Clinton was saying is the face of the Republican Party at this convention -- compassionate he called it at one point -- their campaign face isn't the real face of a very conservative party.

And he's right. The convention is a show, but it was also a show for the Democrats. The Democrats are a liberal party. They're a party that, in the past, has been very antiwar. And yet, their convention last month in Boston was a celebration of military values and a celebration of Kerry's war record in a war, Vietnam, that most Democrats hated. Both parties are putting on a show. That's what a convention is.

WHITFIELD: Well, John Kerry, will he be kind of laying low through all of this throughout the week, do you expect?

SCHNEIDER: I don't think so. I think he's speaking to a convention this week. I think he's going to be in evidence. While he won't be out there trying to steal the spotlight -- he can't -- I think these days, both parties know that this is an all out war. Republicans were in evidence during the Democratic Convention, and the Democrats are here, including the chairman of their party, including Bill and Hillary Clinton.

She's, of course, the senator from New York. They are here, very much in evidence. The war never stops.

WHITFIELD: And as you say, this war, of sorts, officially beings tomorrow. Bill Schneider outside Madison Square Garden, thanks so much. Well, the laugh meisters of late night TV are having a bit of pre-convention fun of their own. Democrats, Republicans, or independents -- all are potential targets. Here's a sample.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

THE LATE SHOW WITH DAVID LETTERMAN: CBS is going to have like a reality version, like the real thing of Gilligan's Island. They've already cast it. They've got the bumbling goofball. They've got the millionaire -- oh, no, wait a minute, that's the Bush-Cheney ticket...

THE DAILY SHOW WITH JON STEWART: Thank you so much for coming to the program.

SEN. JOHN KERRY, (D), PRES. CANDIDATE: I'm glad to be here.

STEWART: Seriously? Mom, you better be recording this.

JIMMY KIMMEL: Watch the lady in the hat...

STEWART: Is it true that every time I use ketchup, your wife gets a nickel? Tell me the truth. I want the truth.

KERRY: Would that it were, would that it were. But use the ketchup a lot anyway.

STEWART: I'll do what I can, sir.

LATE NIGHT WITH CRAIG KILBORN: A fan comes up and says, "We prefer your style." All I can say is, ah, shucks. We have something in common. So do I. A toast to those of you with good taste... proud of you.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

WHITFIELD: Well, no laughing matters here. Here's some news around the world. French President Jacques Chirac is urging Islamic militants to release two French journalists they're holding hostage in Iraq. France's foreign minister is on his way to the region to try to secure their freedom. According to Al Jazeera Arab Television, the Islamic militants are demanding France revoke its controversial ban on Muslim headscarves in public schools in France.

Near the northern Iraqi city of Mosul, violent clashes broke out between U.S. forces and armed insurgents earlier today. The multinational forces say 34 civilians were wounded, 26 of them women and children. Two attackers were killed.

And amidst some violence, voters in Chechnya headed to the polls seeking a replacement for their assassinated regional president and a better economy. Unemployment is near 75 percent. A man was killed when he tried to blow up a polling station. There were no other casualties.

Athens is smiling brightly tonight. Despite terror fears earlier and many skeptics, the city pulled off a very successful Olympics. The competition wrapped up today with the United States ahead of the world pack. The U.S. grabbed a total of 103 medals, 35 of them gold. Russia got 92 medals overall, 27 gold, and China took home 63 medals in all, 32 of them gold. CNN's Michael Holmes joins us live from Athens with the very latest. Michael...

MICHAEL HOLMES, CNN CORRESPONDENT: Hi, Fredricka, yeah, good result there for the United States. It was more than they actually thought they'd get when they came here. They set a target of 100, and they did exceed that well. Just concluding a short time ago and extraordinary ceremony for these Athens 2004 games. What a period it's been.

There was a stunning fireworks display, a display of Greek traditional dancing and music. We also saw China put on a display too. Of course, the flag being handed over to Beijing for the next Olympics in 2008. Also, a nice review too from the IOC President Jacques Rogue (ph), who said, "You have won. You have won by brilliantly meeting the tough challenge of holding the games. These were unforgettable dream games," he said.

High praise and well deserved. But let's remember that only a week or two, or a couple of months even before these games began, people were wondering whether it would ever come off without a whole lot of trouble.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

(voice-over): After an Olympics, a host city will often suffer a case of post-games blues -- the questions of whether the cost, the inconvenience was worth it.

UNIDENTIFIED MAN: It's like a big wedding and a reception, and you have spent quite a bit of money for the caviar and the champagne. And then, suddenly, reality sinks in. How much did I spend for this reception?

HOLMES: A lot, as it turned out. Greece had much going against it preparing for these Olympics. It is a small country. Construction was way behind schedule. Terror fears left many empty seats. Costs ballooned. The final bill might be more than $10 billion.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: On the minor side, there will be those who say we robbed from welfare or education. The plus side, there will be a feeling of self-congratulation, that we can do a very challenging, a very big thing.

HOLMES: And as the Olympic juggernaut begins its journey to Beijing, there is much of which Greeks can be proud. They reached the gold for ticket sales. Massive infrastructure projects for the games will be around for decades to come. Traffic was better than expected. They even had a terrific Web site.

GIANNA ANGELOPOULOS, PRES. ATHENS ORGANIZING CMTE.: We showed a new country, a modern country, a country that can be competent and competitive, and we're all very proud that we did it.

HOLMES: And then, there were the performances. America's Michael Phelps and his eight medals equal to the best ever single games performance. Ian Thorpe became Australia's most successful Olympian. The Iraqi soccer team becoming the new dream team of the Olympics. Doping was an issue, for sure, especially for the host nation, when its two darlings of the Sydney games, Kostas Kenteris and Katerina Thanou pulled out after missing a drug test.

Twice as many athletes broke Olympic doping rules, as in Sydney, but testing is probably twice as effective, and so more were sure to be caught. But perhaps the biggest buzzword at least prior to Athens 2004 was security -- the biggest security operation at any Olympics. Security concerns probably stopped many tourists from coming, which was a shame. This was probably the safest city in the world these past two weeks.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: I believe that in the long run, this will have turned the corner for Greece. This will have established the image of a Greece that is no longer poor, that is advanced, that's part of the Western world.

HOLMES: Now comes the push to take advantage of the games long term.

DIMITRIS AVRAMOPOULOS, GREEK TOURISM MINISTER: We want the tourists and the spectators of the games to become the best ambassadors of Greece for the future.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: I feel that I was worried up to now. I was holding my breath up to this minute. But then I saw these new venues. I saw the traffic moving smoothly. I saw these fantastic facilities. And believe me, I was amazed that organization and Greece are no longer an oxymoron.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

HOLMES: There was no shortage of people who thought that Greece might hold a games memorable for the wrong reasons, perhaps. But everybody now saying at the end of these 16 days of competition they deserve a gold medal. Fredricka, speaking of medals, the marathon is the last medal awarded, the 301st medal, and what a bizarre incident occurring during that race.

Vanderlei de Lima of Brazil was leading. There was just a few miles to go when a 57-year-old Irishman, a defrocked priest no less, came running out of the crowd wearing a kilt and a green beret and actually tackled him. It only lasted a few seconds, and Vandelay Lima was able to regain the lead, but he didn't hold it for long.

He ended up with the bronze medal, and the gold was won by Stefano Baldini of Italy, the U.S. taking silver by the way. But it was a bizarre situation. The Brazilian team asked if he could be given a gold medal as a recognition of what he'd gone through and whether it might have affected his performance. They said no to that, but they did give him an award of sportsmanship. So an odd ending to that race, Fredricka.

WHITFIELD: Oh, odd indeed, no kidding. Well, I'm glad he at least medalled, though, after all of that. You know, you talk about, at first, those empty seats, and then, toward the end of the games, those seats started to fill up. Is it believed that many of the locals decided to scoop up those seats at the last minute, making for sold out crowds across the board?

HOLMES: Yeah, it is, actually. I think a lot more Greeks started buying tickets. Many of them, of course -- we reported on this a few times too -- there was the annual August vacation. Greeks aren't going to stop their vacation for anything. And a lot of them were on the islands. They came back at the end of that first week, and they did turnout in numbers.

It was really a terrific Olympics when we look back, Fredricka, on what could have gone wrong, what people worried about. And at the end of the day, the Greeks really held a terrific show.

WHITFIELD: All right, indeed, it was beautiful. I think everyone got a chance to enjoy it, whether it was watching it at home or being lucky like yourself and being there. Michael Holmes, thanks so much.

HOLMES: Someone has to do it.

WHITFIELD: Someone's got to do it. All right, thanks a lot. Well, maybe you were the kid who was always picked on in gym class. Well, it could be the time for a little revenge.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

UNIDENTIFIED MAN: If you were the chubby kid who was picked last, maybe you've grown into an Adonis. If you were, you know, the goofy kid with glasses, maybe you've had lasik eye surgery.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

WHITIFIELD: Hated being the last kid picked -- the dodgeball comeback, coming up next.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

WHITFIELD: Were you always the one picked last for sports? Or maybe you just had a bad day and you need to get out some frustrations. Whatever the reasons, a rediscovered game could be the perfect way to get rid of some aggression and have fun.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

MICHAEL COSTANZA, LA DODGEBALL SOCIETY FOUNDER: My name is Michael Costanza, and I'm the founder of the Los Angeles Dodgeball Society. Our group was founded out of the necessity to have something for guys and girls to do that's just fun, something that's not so sports driven, ultra competitive... you don't have to be the best athlete. It's mainly suited for the average Joe.

UNIDENTIFIED MAN: Dodgeball, it's great because you get to go out here and pretend like you're a kid and like just get all your aggressions out.

COSTANZA: A lot of people, probably, the last time they played was in elementary school, so a lot's happened. If you were the chubby kid who was picked last, maybe you've grown into an Adonis. If you were, you know, the goofy kid with glasses, maybe you've had lasik eye surgery.

UNIDENTIFIED MAN: Childhood memories suck, because you were never picked on a team and you always got out, and it was always a fully oriented court. And here, it's a lot more egalitarian.

COSTANZA: For a lot of people, it possibly is a chance for redemption to come back and correct all the traumas or the, you know, Paradise Lost type things from elementary school. Groups started very modestly. We've gone from 8 in the course of a year to over 600 people that are active in the group that come out and play at least once a month. We've grown a pretty collective group.

We have guys who are the lead singers for punk rock bands, actors, computer programmers... we've got quite a few attorneys, teachers, doctors.

UNIDENTIFIED MAN: The first day he came out, everybody's like, "Oh, yeah, Hulk Hogan's here, let's get him."

UNIDENTIFIED MAN: It's like getting the president out, like you've really taken some power back, you know, for people.

COSTANZA: I think the idea for a dodgeball group came out of my upbringing. The one thing I remembered about it is it was something where anybody on the court has the ability to take out the strongest player. So the weakest player isn't completely useless.

UNIDENTIFIED MAN: I am the crappiest player on the planet. I'm awful. But I do a great job of distracting people.

COSTANZA: (UNINTELLIGIBLE) started up probably a dozen groups like nationwide, and a lot of it kind of ties into the same reasons that we're having fun doing it, because it reminds you of a simpler time where your biggest fear in the world was, you know, I've got a science quiz or, you know, spelling B type thing. So it definitely helps keep you grounded.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

WHITFIELD: Ouch. That looks a little mean-spirited. All right, that's it for us. "NEXT@CNN" is coming up with a look at the latest back to school gadgets. At 6 Eastern, CNN LIVE SUNDAY continues with Carol Lin. She'll talk with Michael Touret (ph) about tonight's video music awards. And tonight on "PEOPLE IN THE NEWS," a look at Vice President Dick Cheney and First Lady Laura Bush, all expected to speak this week at the Republican National Convention.

Thanks for joining us. Back to the headlines right after a quick break.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

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