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CNN Live At Daybreak
What Holiday Travelers Can Expect From Security Checks at Airports; Examining Differences in Bush Administration Over Intelligence Reform Bill
Aired November 24, 2004 - 05:00 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.
CAROL COSTELLO, CNN ANCHOR: Getting in step with the commander- in-chief. Donald Rumsfeld toes the company line on intelligence reform.
The curse of the locusts -- how some countries are battling this biblical threat.
And those huge balloons in Macy's annual Thanksgiving Day parade -- get ready. We're going to take you behind the scenes.
It is Wednesday, November 24.
You are watching DAYBREAK.
And good morning to you.
Thank you for waking up with us.
I'm Carol Costello along with Chad Myers.
Let's check on the headlines right now, shall we?
South of the Iraqi capital right now more than 5,000 U.S., Iraqi and British troops and U.S. troops involved in another offensive. This time the troops are targeting Babil Province, a hotbed of Sunni Arab rebels.
In Washington State, a race that never ends. We could learn today just who has won the recount for governor. So far, Republican Dino Rossi has a 316 vote lead over the Democratic candidate.
A California appeals court has turned down Scott Peterson's appeal for a new jury to decide his fate. It also rejected the convicted killer's request to move the sentencing part of the trial out of Redwood City.
Growing demonstrations despite freezing temperatures in the Ukraine capital of Kiev. The rally is to show support for an opposition presidential candidate and to protest what they say is a fraudulent election.
To the forecast center and Chad in Atlanta.
Ooh, Chad, you have some holiday travel updates for us.
We're ready.
CHAD MYERS, CNN METEOROLOGIST: Oh, yes. I have worse than that. I don't even have time for holiday travel this morning, Carol. I have not less than seven counties under tornado warnings right now.
COSTELLO: You're kidding!
MYERS: I will get to the travel as soon as I can. But the area here behind me is really getting smattered with tornadoes now this morning. Obviously tornado warnings everywhere you can see. Another one even issued for northern Alabama. And I'm going to walk over to the Vipir system so that I can really show you how this storm has progressed overnight.
It has been into parts of Texas and here's where it's going. Here is what we have. This is the latest live Doppler radar out of St. Tammany Parish, out of New Orleans, very, very heavy rainfall and also even some spin markers. Every time you'll see a little bit of a spin marker, and you'll see many of them here on the map, we'll talk about those tornado warnings.
Now let's get into some of the parishes of Louisiana. See all these very dark red areas here? Talking about Washington Parish and also Walt Hall County into Mississippi. That tornado warning exists for another 15 minutes. Green County in central Alabama; Ascension Parish on up here into parts of southeast Louisiana, also now into the act.
We're going to zoom you up a little bit farther, up toward Hattiesburg. I told you you would see some of these spin markers. That's the shear marker, actually, for the tornado itself. Into Marengo County in southwestern Alabama; also into Pickens County for west central Alabama and Forest County into Mississippi, all tornado warnings here.
I'm going go zoom you up a little bit farther, turn off the New Orleans radar, turn on the Birmingham radar. You can see now more spin markers out of the Birmingham radar farther north here. Here is Birmingham. And much more weather for you, Birmingham, as you move farther into your day.
Now closer to Atlanta. Here is the Atlanta on and Birmingham off. Severe weather moving into Rome, Georgia this morning. And this is going to be one ugly morning for a lot of folks here across the Southeast.
What I haven't even told you about is the six inches of snow that Chicago is going to get and the 12 inches of snow that Quincy, Illinois is going to get -- Carol.
COSTELLO: That is crazy.
MYERS: But I will certainly get there as soon as I can.
It is going to be one hectic morning here in the weather office.
Now I can come back over to talk to you.
And as the whole storm system comes out, a typical winter storm or fall storm. You have severe weather on one side and heavy, heavy snow on the other side.
COSTELLO: So if you're heading out and you're, I don't know, a lot of people are getting ready to travel now.
MYERS: Yes.
COSTELLO: Be careful.
MYERS: Absolutely. Anywhere now from Chicago I-70,I-80 still in good shape, but literally in a couple of hours, it's going to go downhill so fast because of that snow.
COSTELLO: All right, thank you, Chad.
We'll get back to you.
MYERS: I'll be back in 15 minutes to show you where that snow band is.
COSTELLO: We'll be here.
MYERS: All right.
COSTELLO: The holiday exodus has already begun in cities and towns all across America. Long lines greeted travelers at Hartsfield- Jackson Airport in Atlanta. More than four and a half million people are expected to fly this holiday weekend. There are similar scenes in Washington, as well. Transportation safety officials say they have more screeners on duty to handle the increased traffic. But still, there will be long lines.
In Chicago, an estimated two million people are expected to pass through the cities two airports during the five day holiday weekend.
But what can you expect to see when you get to the airport?
We get more from N.J. Burkett of CNN affiliate WABC in New York.
(BEGIN VIDEO TAPE)
N.J. BURKETT, WABC CORRESPONDENT (voice-over): With more and more people expected to fly for the Thanksgiving holiday, airport security has never been tighter.
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: I can say one thing, traveling is not as much fun as it used to be. I used to travel a lot and as, you know, there's just a lot more to think about now.
BURKETT: Privately, federal security officials say they are worried less about hijackings and more about bombs. Checked luggage is now routinely screened for explosives. But finding explosives hidden on passengers is extremely difficult. Officials insist that there is no part of the human body they cannot ask to search, although they insisted that most searches are discrete.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Not fingertips, not palms, but the edges of the hands.
BURKETT: Agents said that body piercings in intimate areas are a particular problem.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: If they cannot complete screening and have all alarms resolved, then they're not going to be able to fly.
BURKETT: Experts say you should pack fragile and valuable items in your carry-on luggage. Don't pack film or heavy food items in checked luggage and allow at least two hours for check-in, security and boarding.
To help you at the checkpoint, be sure to place all metal items in your carry-on first. Avoid wearing bulky clothing because it will subject you to more intensive screening and remember, you are entitled to a private screening if you're uncomfortable.
Some travelers, like Jerry Fink (ph), say it's a small price to pay.
(on camera): Are they doing too much?
JERRY FINK: I think they're doing what's right. Too much is never too much security.
(END VIDEO TAPE)
COSTELLO: So the message here, if you have any piercings in private places, take those studs out and you'll get through. That really slayed me. That report was from N.J. Burkett of CNN affiliate WABC in New York.
Transportation officials say you should check ahead with the airline before heading to the airport. That way you can check out any delays and figure out how long it'll take you to get through security.
Let's take a look at where people are going. Forty percent of you are heading over the river and through the woods to towns and rural areas, while almost as many of you are going to the big city. And only 9 percent are smart enough to head for the warmth of the beach.
For all your travel tips and trends, be sure to join us on the Internet at cnn.com. And be sure to log on for up to the minute weather updates before you hit the road. Chad is very busy this morning.
It looks like your tax return will be kept away from prying eyes. House law makers have reportedly agreed to come back early next month to vote on scrapping a controversial measure that was included in the government's spending bill. The provision would have let some members of Congress take a look at your tax return. And Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld denies allegations he campaigned against an intelligence reform bill backed by his boss, the president. But he's not denying he has some reservations about it.
More now from our senior Pentagon correspondent Jamie McIntyre.
(BEGIN VIDEO TAPE)
JAMIE MCINTYRE, CNN CORRESPONDENT: (voice-over): The Pentagon is worried that the rapid flow of real time battlefield intelligence, the kind U.S. military commanders used to win a swift victory in Falluja, could be more cumbersome if a separate national security czar is in charge. Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld, who opposed the plan, insists once President Bush decided to support it, he saluted smartly.
DONALD RUMSFELD, SECRETARY OF DEFENSE: Needless to say, I'm a part of this administration. I support the president's positions.
MCINTYRE: Rumsfeld bristled at charges leveled by Connecticut Congressman Christopher Shays that he blatantly opposed the Senate version of the bill supported by the White House and flatly denied a "New York Times" editorial that said, "Despite Mr. Rumsfeld's denials, it seems obvious that he lobbied against the president's stated policy."
RUMSFELD: "The New York Times" is wrong. The Congressmen who are saying that I had blatant opposition to the bill is incorrect.
MCINTYRE: Joint Chiefs Chairman General Richard Myers did support a House version opposed by the White House which keeps Pentagon control of battlefield intelligence. In a letter requested by and sent to Republican Congressman Duncan Hunter, Myers writes: "The House bill maintains this vital flow through the secretary of defense. It is my recommendation that this critical provision be preserved."
But General Myers, unlike Rumsfeld, is required by Congress not to allow politics to influence his military advice.
GEN. RICHARD MYERS, CHAIRMAN, JOINT CHIEFS OF STAFF: Chairman Hunter called and asked for my opinion on a certain matter that related to intel reform and I was obliged to give him my opinion. And I did that.
MCINTYRE (on camera): The White House insists that neither Rumsfeld nor Myers is in any trouble because both expressed their concerns properly.
Jamie McIntyre, CNN, the Pentagon.
(END VIDEO TAPE)
COSTELLO: In News Across America this morning, a plane heading to pick up former President Bush may have crashed because of pilot error. Investigators say the pilot was warned that he was flying too low, but he did not respond. All three people on board were killed in the crash. The plane was on its way to Houston to pick up the former president for a trip to Ecuador.
Libraries in Orlando, Florida are keeping a closer eye on adults. The library system has banned unaccompanied adults from entering the kids' areas of 14 libraries.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
GIL TRAVEZ, FATHER: One blink and she could be gone, you know? I mean you worry about people snatching your kids, as well as your kids getting lost and being separated from you. So all these concerns come into play.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
COSTELLO: Sop now you know why. It's believed to be the first policy of its kind in the entire country.
In Fort Lauderdale, Florida, a 79-year-old woman was arrested when she tried to take a pistol on a flight to the Bahamas. The unloaded .22 caliber pistol and seven bullets were kept in a hollowed out book. The woman says she forgot the gun was in her carry-on bag and she forgot about that book.
Oh, the twists and turns coming out of that Friday night Pistons- Pacers brawl. Have you heard the latest? It seems now an item listed on the eBay auction site is supposedly the plastic cup that launched a thousand punches. You know, the cup that hit Ron Artest. Even though there's no way to know if it's real or not, people apparently are having quite a bit of fun with it. The final list price on eBay was just under $100 million.
Basketball fan John Green has been identified as the man who threw that cup. He denies it. Green is getting his 15 minutes of fame, though.
Going beyond the sound bite now, listen to Green describing what happened to our Larry King.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP FROM CNN'S "LARRY KING LIVE")
JOHN GREEN, ACCUSED OF THROWING CUP: I was sitting up a few rows from the announcer's table and when the fight broke out and everybody started yelling, "Fight!" and we, a bunch of us ran down into the aisle and started getting a better view of what was going on. We were a few rows up further than -- there were just some empty seats we ran to when we saw that nobody was sitting in them.
The fight broke out when a cup that came from our direction landed on Ron Artest. Ron Artest, I think it hit him. It was, it looked like something, a blue cup or something, hit him in the chest. He, in turn, looked around. It looked like, I guess, maybe from the video, it looked like the guy next to me was smiling or laughing or something. And Ron Artest immediately thought it was him, came right by me. I didn't know what was going on at the time. He kind of scared me. I pushed him aside and he started attacking the guy next to me. So the only thing I did was grab him from behind. And I was pulling him off of the guy and he was shouting something at him. I don't know what -- I couldn't quite hear it. And I was shouting at Artest to get off him, you know, it's, you know, not a big deal, or something like that.
And then he kicked me from behind, like mule kicked me into the shin, and that's when I reacted.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
COSTELLO: But police say he did throw the cup. And did you notice he's still wearing that white hat? Police investigating the brawl are also asking for the public's help in identifying a man believed to have thrown a chair during the brawl. A 67-year-old man who is suing several Pacers was hit by that chair. You're looking at the man they're looking for. The county prosecutor says the chair thrower could be the only person charged with a felony. The other charges most likely would be for misdemeanor assault and battery. So if you know that man highlighted, there he is, give police a call.
Now that Ron Artest has been suspended for the rest of the season, he has more time to promote his brand new CD.
Reporter Julie Pursley of CNN affiliate WRTV in Indianapolis tells us how Pacers' fans are responding to Artest and all the hoopla.
(BEGIN VIDEO TAPE)
JULIE PURSLEY, WRTV CORRESPONDENT (voice-over): Ron Artest's presence on the circle at Radio Now 93.1 created a fan frenzy. Dozens got up early to back the Pacers player who is now in the national spotlight for Friday night's fight in Detroit.
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: We support him 100 percent.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: He's the best division player in the NBA.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Whether he's right or wrong, I'm not really one to comment on it. But I know that he still needs support from his fans, his fan base and this whole town.
PURSLEY: Both young and old watched through the window as Artest promoted his new music CD on the Billy & Marco morning radio show. He also spoke out about the so-called basket brawl.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: And you actually showed a lot of restraint. You backed up. You held your hands up and nothing was going down. I applaud you for that. I applaud you for that.
RON ARTEST, SUSPENDED INDIANA PACER: I realized, you know, some of the times people get upset.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Yes. ARTEST: I get upset, as everybody knows, sometimes.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: I just think people (UNINTELLIGIBLE)...
ARTEST: We've got to understand that, so.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Yes.
PURSLEY (on camera): Although these people are Artest's fans, they still have differing opinions when it comes to what happened on Friday night in Detroit and Artest talking about it.
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: If I could speak with him, I just wanted to tell him just really just to not say anything to the media. Let the Pacers organization handle it because whenever he says things like, to me, they just blow it out of context.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: It wasn't cool for him to do it. He's a professional, you know what I'm saying? But, you know, he's a man, too.
PURSLEY (voice-over): We asked Artest what he thought about the fan turnout.
ARTEST: That's great. Good Pacer fans. I want them to keep supporting the Pacers and, you know, keep coming to the games. We're going to the playoffs.
PURSLEY: That's what these Pacer loyals are betting on.
(END VIDEO TAPE)
COSTELLO: That was Julie Pursley of CNN affiliate WTRV reporting.
Leaving the big chair -- Dan Rather stepping down as CBS News anchor. We'll have more for you at 23 minutes past.
And later, it's a predatory disease and it's preying more and more on women. Dr. Sanjay Gupta has the story at 49 minutes past.
But first, here's a look at what else is making news this Wednesday morning, November 24.
(COMMERCIAL BREAK)
(STOCK MARKET REPORT)
COSTELLO: Your news, money, weather and sports.
It's 5:18 Eastern.
Here's what's all new this morning.
The suspect in the killings of six Wisconsin deer hunters say they shot at him first. Court documents say Chai Vang told investigators he was shot at after some of the victims called him racially derogatory names.
The latest scare over mad cow disease is over because the cow on this farm tested negative for the disease. The original test on the animal was inconclusive and that led to more testing.
In money news, nearly eight million people kept their cell phone numbers even though they changed phone companies. The cell portability rule went into effect a year ago today. Another 750,000 people moved their home or office number to a cell phone.
In culture, former "Friend" Lisa Kudrow, Feebie to you and me, is moving on to a brand new neighborhood. Kudrow signed a deal to be the executive producer and star of a sitcom on HBO. The show is expected to fill the void left by another long running series, and that would be "Sex and the City."
In sports, running back Ricky Williams may be coming out of retirement after all. His attorney says he could serve a four game drug suspension next month and then be reinstated to the Miami Dolphins. The NFL says no agreement has been reached. Wow!
To the forecast center and one busy Chad Myers.
MYERS: Oh, my, this is going to be a two pot kind of day. I've already gone through the first pot of coffee. The other one is already on.
Good morning, Carol.
(WEATHER REPORT)
MYERS: It is going to be one busy day, Carol.
COSTELLO: It couldn't come on a worse day, like the busiest travel day of the year.
MYERS: Absolutely. And we knew that this was going to happen. We knew that all of this weather was moving in, moving into Columbus, Cleveland, Indianapolis and oh, it's just going to get ugly from here.
COSTELLO: OK. So be careful out there, because I know a lot of people are getting ready already to get out on the road.
MYERS: Absolutely. Yes. And, you know what? A lot of times, Carol, we say leave early, but I'm thinking now maybe leave early would be the worst thing you could do. Maybe leave after sunrise because, you know, a lot -- it's harder to see in the rain. Your headlights don't work quite as well. If you're coming down, if it's in snow right now, you're not going to be able to see that as well. Wait until the sun comes up and maybe that'll be a little bit easier.
COSTELLO: And you're tired.
MYERS: You are. Of course, right.
COSTELLO: So, yes. All right, thank you, Chad.
MYERS: You're welcome.
COSTELLO: We'll get back to you.
Still to come on DAYBREAK this morning, we'll go behind-the- scenes as hundreds of people prepare a whopping Thanksgiving Day parade.
And a broadcasting icon decides to step down from the anchor chair. Why?
You're watching DAYBREAK for Wednesday, November 24.
(COMMERCIAL BREAK)
COSTELLO: He's been a familiar face on CBS News for more than 40 years. Now, Dan Rather is leaving the anchor chair. But why?
CNN's Jason Carroll takes a look at Rather's past highlights and recent controversies.
(BEGIN VIDEO TAPE)
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP, "THE CBS EVENING NEWS")
DAN RATHER, CBS NEWS ANCHOR: Good evening.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
JASON CARROLL, CNN CORRESPONDENT (voice-over): For nearly 24 years, Dan Rather sat in that coveted chair as anchor of "The CBS Evening News." During a meeting Tuesday afternoon at CBS headquarters, Rather told those he has worked closely with over the years the time had come to give up the chair.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP, "THE CBS EVENING NEWS")
RATHER: It has been and remains an honor to be welcomed into your home each evening, and I thank you for the trust you've given me.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
ANDY ROONEY, "60 MINUTES" CORRESPONDENT: I think it's a good thing to do. He's about 15 years after Cronkite stepped down, that much older. So he's had a good run, and it's been great.
CARROLL: Rather's contract ran until 2006. Now, his last day as anchor is March 9 ,2005, 24 years to the day since he took over. A bittersweet ending, according to his agent, who says Rather decided, in part, the timing was right because he had gotten through another election cycle.
Discussions about his departure heated up this past summer, months before the release of a "60 Minutes" story in which Rather and the network came under intense fire. The story alleged President Bush received special treatment to get him out of duties while serving in the Texas Air National Guard. Initially, Rather stood by the story and its source.
RATHER: The story is true.
CARROLL: In the end, CBS admitted it could not authenticate the document they had heavily based their story on.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP, "THE CBS EVENING NEWS")
RATHER: I want to say personally and directly, I'm sorry.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
CARROLL: The incident is still under review.
MARC BERMAN, "MEDIA WEEK": That might have led to his exit earlier than he was going to leave. But I think people also realize that people make mistakes and things happen. I don't think that's going to tarnish him at all.
CARROLL: Overall, the 73-year-old has had a distinguished career in journalism. His plans now, work primarily for "60 Minutes" until his contract runs out.
(on camera): There has been much speculation about who Dan Rather's replacement will be. Some of the names being mentioned: CBS News correspondent John Roberts, as well as "60 Minutes" correspondent Scott Pelley. Most media analysts agree some sort of announcement will be made fairly soon.
Jason Carroll, CNN, New York.
(END VIDEO TAPE)
COSTELLO: You would think so, huh? Who knows, though?
It bring us to our DAYBREAK E-Mail Question of the Day, because there's been so much controversy surrounding Dan Rather, we wanted to find out from you how do you think Dan Rather's departure will affect CBS. Daybreak@cnn.com. Daybreak@cnn.com. please, give us your thoughts. We're always glad to hear them.
Dan Rather isn't the only network anchor who's leaving the big chair. You probably have heard this. NBC announced in April that Tom Brokaw will retire on December 1. Brian Williams will take over. Brokaw has been the face of NBC Nightly News since 1983.
Here's what we're working on for you in the next half hour of DAYBREAK.
Some new airport security measures might slow you up on your trip home this holiday, not to mention the stormy weather. It is nasty in many parts of the country. Chad will tell you what to expect as you continue packing this morning. And there's no sign the locusts swarming across Africa are slowing down. We'll tell you where the bugs are headed next.
From New York and Atlanta, this is DAYBREAK for a Wednesday morning.
(COMMERCIAL BREAK)
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Aired November 24, 2004 - 05:00 ET
THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.
CAROL COSTELLO, CNN ANCHOR: Getting in step with the commander- in-chief. Donald Rumsfeld toes the company line on intelligence reform.
The curse of the locusts -- how some countries are battling this biblical threat.
And those huge balloons in Macy's annual Thanksgiving Day parade -- get ready. We're going to take you behind the scenes.
It is Wednesday, November 24.
You are watching DAYBREAK.
And good morning to you.
Thank you for waking up with us.
I'm Carol Costello along with Chad Myers.
Let's check on the headlines right now, shall we?
South of the Iraqi capital right now more than 5,000 U.S., Iraqi and British troops and U.S. troops involved in another offensive. This time the troops are targeting Babil Province, a hotbed of Sunni Arab rebels.
In Washington State, a race that never ends. We could learn today just who has won the recount for governor. So far, Republican Dino Rossi has a 316 vote lead over the Democratic candidate.
A California appeals court has turned down Scott Peterson's appeal for a new jury to decide his fate. It also rejected the convicted killer's request to move the sentencing part of the trial out of Redwood City.
Growing demonstrations despite freezing temperatures in the Ukraine capital of Kiev. The rally is to show support for an opposition presidential candidate and to protest what they say is a fraudulent election.
To the forecast center and Chad in Atlanta.
Ooh, Chad, you have some holiday travel updates for us.
We're ready.
CHAD MYERS, CNN METEOROLOGIST: Oh, yes. I have worse than that. I don't even have time for holiday travel this morning, Carol. I have not less than seven counties under tornado warnings right now.
COSTELLO: You're kidding!
MYERS: I will get to the travel as soon as I can. But the area here behind me is really getting smattered with tornadoes now this morning. Obviously tornado warnings everywhere you can see. Another one even issued for northern Alabama. And I'm going to walk over to the Vipir system so that I can really show you how this storm has progressed overnight.
It has been into parts of Texas and here's where it's going. Here is what we have. This is the latest live Doppler radar out of St. Tammany Parish, out of New Orleans, very, very heavy rainfall and also even some spin markers. Every time you'll see a little bit of a spin marker, and you'll see many of them here on the map, we'll talk about those tornado warnings.
Now let's get into some of the parishes of Louisiana. See all these very dark red areas here? Talking about Washington Parish and also Walt Hall County into Mississippi. That tornado warning exists for another 15 minutes. Green County in central Alabama; Ascension Parish on up here into parts of southeast Louisiana, also now into the act.
We're going to zoom you up a little bit farther, up toward Hattiesburg. I told you you would see some of these spin markers. That's the shear marker, actually, for the tornado itself. Into Marengo County in southwestern Alabama; also into Pickens County for west central Alabama and Forest County into Mississippi, all tornado warnings here.
I'm going go zoom you up a little bit farther, turn off the New Orleans radar, turn on the Birmingham radar. You can see now more spin markers out of the Birmingham radar farther north here. Here is Birmingham. And much more weather for you, Birmingham, as you move farther into your day.
Now closer to Atlanta. Here is the Atlanta on and Birmingham off. Severe weather moving into Rome, Georgia this morning. And this is going to be one ugly morning for a lot of folks here across the Southeast.
What I haven't even told you about is the six inches of snow that Chicago is going to get and the 12 inches of snow that Quincy, Illinois is going to get -- Carol.
COSTELLO: That is crazy.
MYERS: But I will certainly get there as soon as I can.
It is going to be one hectic morning here in the weather office.
Now I can come back over to talk to you.
And as the whole storm system comes out, a typical winter storm or fall storm. You have severe weather on one side and heavy, heavy snow on the other side.
COSTELLO: So if you're heading out and you're, I don't know, a lot of people are getting ready to travel now.
MYERS: Yes.
COSTELLO: Be careful.
MYERS: Absolutely. Anywhere now from Chicago I-70,I-80 still in good shape, but literally in a couple of hours, it's going to go downhill so fast because of that snow.
COSTELLO: All right, thank you, Chad.
We'll get back to you.
MYERS: I'll be back in 15 minutes to show you where that snow band is.
COSTELLO: We'll be here.
MYERS: All right.
COSTELLO: The holiday exodus has already begun in cities and towns all across America. Long lines greeted travelers at Hartsfield- Jackson Airport in Atlanta. More than four and a half million people are expected to fly this holiday weekend. There are similar scenes in Washington, as well. Transportation safety officials say they have more screeners on duty to handle the increased traffic. But still, there will be long lines.
In Chicago, an estimated two million people are expected to pass through the cities two airports during the five day holiday weekend.
But what can you expect to see when you get to the airport?
We get more from N.J. Burkett of CNN affiliate WABC in New York.
(BEGIN VIDEO TAPE)
N.J. BURKETT, WABC CORRESPONDENT (voice-over): With more and more people expected to fly for the Thanksgiving holiday, airport security has never been tighter.
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: I can say one thing, traveling is not as much fun as it used to be. I used to travel a lot and as, you know, there's just a lot more to think about now.
BURKETT: Privately, federal security officials say they are worried less about hijackings and more about bombs. Checked luggage is now routinely screened for explosives. But finding explosives hidden on passengers is extremely difficult. Officials insist that there is no part of the human body they cannot ask to search, although they insisted that most searches are discrete.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Not fingertips, not palms, but the edges of the hands.
BURKETT: Agents said that body piercings in intimate areas are a particular problem.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: If they cannot complete screening and have all alarms resolved, then they're not going to be able to fly.
BURKETT: Experts say you should pack fragile and valuable items in your carry-on luggage. Don't pack film or heavy food items in checked luggage and allow at least two hours for check-in, security and boarding.
To help you at the checkpoint, be sure to place all metal items in your carry-on first. Avoid wearing bulky clothing because it will subject you to more intensive screening and remember, you are entitled to a private screening if you're uncomfortable.
Some travelers, like Jerry Fink (ph), say it's a small price to pay.
(on camera): Are they doing too much?
JERRY FINK: I think they're doing what's right. Too much is never too much security.
(END VIDEO TAPE)
COSTELLO: So the message here, if you have any piercings in private places, take those studs out and you'll get through. That really slayed me. That report was from N.J. Burkett of CNN affiliate WABC in New York.
Transportation officials say you should check ahead with the airline before heading to the airport. That way you can check out any delays and figure out how long it'll take you to get through security.
Let's take a look at where people are going. Forty percent of you are heading over the river and through the woods to towns and rural areas, while almost as many of you are going to the big city. And only 9 percent are smart enough to head for the warmth of the beach.
For all your travel tips and trends, be sure to join us on the Internet at cnn.com. And be sure to log on for up to the minute weather updates before you hit the road. Chad is very busy this morning.
It looks like your tax return will be kept away from prying eyes. House law makers have reportedly agreed to come back early next month to vote on scrapping a controversial measure that was included in the government's spending bill. The provision would have let some members of Congress take a look at your tax return. And Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld denies allegations he campaigned against an intelligence reform bill backed by his boss, the president. But he's not denying he has some reservations about it.
More now from our senior Pentagon correspondent Jamie McIntyre.
(BEGIN VIDEO TAPE)
JAMIE MCINTYRE, CNN CORRESPONDENT: (voice-over): The Pentagon is worried that the rapid flow of real time battlefield intelligence, the kind U.S. military commanders used to win a swift victory in Falluja, could be more cumbersome if a separate national security czar is in charge. Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld, who opposed the plan, insists once President Bush decided to support it, he saluted smartly.
DONALD RUMSFELD, SECRETARY OF DEFENSE: Needless to say, I'm a part of this administration. I support the president's positions.
MCINTYRE: Rumsfeld bristled at charges leveled by Connecticut Congressman Christopher Shays that he blatantly opposed the Senate version of the bill supported by the White House and flatly denied a "New York Times" editorial that said, "Despite Mr. Rumsfeld's denials, it seems obvious that he lobbied against the president's stated policy."
RUMSFELD: "The New York Times" is wrong. The Congressmen who are saying that I had blatant opposition to the bill is incorrect.
MCINTYRE: Joint Chiefs Chairman General Richard Myers did support a House version opposed by the White House which keeps Pentagon control of battlefield intelligence. In a letter requested by and sent to Republican Congressman Duncan Hunter, Myers writes: "The House bill maintains this vital flow through the secretary of defense. It is my recommendation that this critical provision be preserved."
But General Myers, unlike Rumsfeld, is required by Congress not to allow politics to influence his military advice.
GEN. RICHARD MYERS, CHAIRMAN, JOINT CHIEFS OF STAFF: Chairman Hunter called and asked for my opinion on a certain matter that related to intel reform and I was obliged to give him my opinion. And I did that.
MCINTYRE (on camera): The White House insists that neither Rumsfeld nor Myers is in any trouble because both expressed their concerns properly.
Jamie McIntyre, CNN, the Pentagon.
(END VIDEO TAPE)
COSTELLO: In News Across America this morning, a plane heading to pick up former President Bush may have crashed because of pilot error. Investigators say the pilot was warned that he was flying too low, but he did not respond. All three people on board were killed in the crash. The plane was on its way to Houston to pick up the former president for a trip to Ecuador.
Libraries in Orlando, Florida are keeping a closer eye on adults. The library system has banned unaccompanied adults from entering the kids' areas of 14 libraries.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
GIL TRAVEZ, FATHER: One blink and she could be gone, you know? I mean you worry about people snatching your kids, as well as your kids getting lost and being separated from you. So all these concerns come into play.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
COSTELLO: Sop now you know why. It's believed to be the first policy of its kind in the entire country.
In Fort Lauderdale, Florida, a 79-year-old woman was arrested when she tried to take a pistol on a flight to the Bahamas. The unloaded .22 caliber pistol and seven bullets were kept in a hollowed out book. The woman says she forgot the gun was in her carry-on bag and she forgot about that book.
Oh, the twists and turns coming out of that Friday night Pistons- Pacers brawl. Have you heard the latest? It seems now an item listed on the eBay auction site is supposedly the plastic cup that launched a thousand punches. You know, the cup that hit Ron Artest. Even though there's no way to know if it's real or not, people apparently are having quite a bit of fun with it. The final list price on eBay was just under $100 million.
Basketball fan John Green has been identified as the man who threw that cup. He denies it. Green is getting his 15 minutes of fame, though.
Going beyond the sound bite now, listen to Green describing what happened to our Larry King.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP FROM CNN'S "LARRY KING LIVE")
JOHN GREEN, ACCUSED OF THROWING CUP: I was sitting up a few rows from the announcer's table and when the fight broke out and everybody started yelling, "Fight!" and we, a bunch of us ran down into the aisle and started getting a better view of what was going on. We were a few rows up further than -- there were just some empty seats we ran to when we saw that nobody was sitting in them.
The fight broke out when a cup that came from our direction landed on Ron Artest. Ron Artest, I think it hit him. It was, it looked like something, a blue cup or something, hit him in the chest. He, in turn, looked around. It looked like, I guess, maybe from the video, it looked like the guy next to me was smiling or laughing or something. And Ron Artest immediately thought it was him, came right by me. I didn't know what was going on at the time. He kind of scared me. I pushed him aside and he started attacking the guy next to me. So the only thing I did was grab him from behind. And I was pulling him off of the guy and he was shouting something at him. I don't know what -- I couldn't quite hear it. And I was shouting at Artest to get off him, you know, it's, you know, not a big deal, or something like that.
And then he kicked me from behind, like mule kicked me into the shin, and that's when I reacted.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
COSTELLO: But police say he did throw the cup. And did you notice he's still wearing that white hat? Police investigating the brawl are also asking for the public's help in identifying a man believed to have thrown a chair during the brawl. A 67-year-old man who is suing several Pacers was hit by that chair. You're looking at the man they're looking for. The county prosecutor says the chair thrower could be the only person charged with a felony. The other charges most likely would be for misdemeanor assault and battery. So if you know that man highlighted, there he is, give police a call.
Now that Ron Artest has been suspended for the rest of the season, he has more time to promote his brand new CD.
Reporter Julie Pursley of CNN affiliate WRTV in Indianapolis tells us how Pacers' fans are responding to Artest and all the hoopla.
(BEGIN VIDEO TAPE)
JULIE PURSLEY, WRTV CORRESPONDENT (voice-over): Ron Artest's presence on the circle at Radio Now 93.1 created a fan frenzy. Dozens got up early to back the Pacers player who is now in the national spotlight for Friday night's fight in Detroit.
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: We support him 100 percent.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: He's the best division player in the NBA.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Whether he's right or wrong, I'm not really one to comment on it. But I know that he still needs support from his fans, his fan base and this whole town.
PURSLEY: Both young and old watched through the window as Artest promoted his new music CD on the Billy & Marco morning radio show. He also spoke out about the so-called basket brawl.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: And you actually showed a lot of restraint. You backed up. You held your hands up and nothing was going down. I applaud you for that. I applaud you for that.
RON ARTEST, SUSPENDED INDIANA PACER: I realized, you know, some of the times people get upset.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Yes. ARTEST: I get upset, as everybody knows, sometimes.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: I just think people (UNINTELLIGIBLE)...
ARTEST: We've got to understand that, so.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Yes.
PURSLEY (on camera): Although these people are Artest's fans, they still have differing opinions when it comes to what happened on Friday night in Detroit and Artest talking about it.
UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: If I could speak with him, I just wanted to tell him just really just to not say anything to the media. Let the Pacers organization handle it because whenever he says things like, to me, they just blow it out of context.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: It wasn't cool for him to do it. He's a professional, you know what I'm saying? But, you know, he's a man, too.
PURSLEY (voice-over): We asked Artest what he thought about the fan turnout.
ARTEST: That's great. Good Pacer fans. I want them to keep supporting the Pacers and, you know, keep coming to the games. We're going to the playoffs.
PURSLEY: That's what these Pacer loyals are betting on.
(END VIDEO TAPE)
COSTELLO: That was Julie Pursley of CNN affiliate WTRV reporting.
Leaving the big chair -- Dan Rather stepping down as CBS News anchor. We'll have more for you at 23 minutes past.
And later, it's a predatory disease and it's preying more and more on women. Dr. Sanjay Gupta has the story at 49 minutes past.
But first, here's a look at what else is making news this Wednesday morning, November 24.
(COMMERCIAL BREAK)
(STOCK MARKET REPORT)
COSTELLO: Your news, money, weather and sports.
It's 5:18 Eastern.
Here's what's all new this morning.
The suspect in the killings of six Wisconsin deer hunters say they shot at him first. Court documents say Chai Vang told investigators he was shot at after some of the victims called him racially derogatory names.
The latest scare over mad cow disease is over because the cow on this farm tested negative for the disease. The original test on the animal was inconclusive and that led to more testing.
In money news, nearly eight million people kept their cell phone numbers even though they changed phone companies. The cell portability rule went into effect a year ago today. Another 750,000 people moved their home or office number to a cell phone.
In culture, former "Friend" Lisa Kudrow, Feebie to you and me, is moving on to a brand new neighborhood. Kudrow signed a deal to be the executive producer and star of a sitcom on HBO. The show is expected to fill the void left by another long running series, and that would be "Sex and the City."
In sports, running back Ricky Williams may be coming out of retirement after all. His attorney says he could serve a four game drug suspension next month and then be reinstated to the Miami Dolphins. The NFL says no agreement has been reached. Wow!
To the forecast center and one busy Chad Myers.
MYERS: Oh, my, this is going to be a two pot kind of day. I've already gone through the first pot of coffee. The other one is already on.
Good morning, Carol.
(WEATHER REPORT)
MYERS: It is going to be one busy day, Carol.
COSTELLO: It couldn't come on a worse day, like the busiest travel day of the year.
MYERS: Absolutely. And we knew that this was going to happen. We knew that all of this weather was moving in, moving into Columbus, Cleveland, Indianapolis and oh, it's just going to get ugly from here.
COSTELLO: OK. So be careful out there, because I know a lot of people are getting ready already to get out on the road.
MYERS: Absolutely. Yes. And, you know what? A lot of times, Carol, we say leave early, but I'm thinking now maybe leave early would be the worst thing you could do. Maybe leave after sunrise because, you know, a lot -- it's harder to see in the rain. Your headlights don't work quite as well. If you're coming down, if it's in snow right now, you're not going to be able to see that as well. Wait until the sun comes up and maybe that'll be a little bit easier.
COSTELLO: And you're tired.
MYERS: You are. Of course, right.
COSTELLO: So, yes. All right, thank you, Chad.
MYERS: You're welcome.
COSTELLO: We'll get back to you.
Still to come on DAYBREAK this morning, we'll go behind-the- scenes as hundreds of people prepare a whopping Thanksgiving Day parade.
And a broadcasting icon decides to step down from the anchor chair. Why?
You're watching DAYBREAK for Wednesday, November 24.
(COMMERCIAL BREAK)
COSTELLO: He's been a familiar face on CBS News for more than 40 years. Now, Dan Rather is leaving the anchor chair. But why?
CNN's Jason Carroll takes a look at Rather's past highlights and recent controversies.
(BEGIN VIDEO TAPE)
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP, "THE CBS EVENING NEWS")
DAN RATHER, CBS NEWS ANCHOR: Good evening.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
JASON CARROLL, CNN CORRESPONDENT (voice-over): For nearly 24 years, Dan Rather sat in that coveted chair as anchor of "The CBS Evening News." During a meeting Tuesday afternoon at CBS headquarters, Rather told those he has worked closely with over the years the time had come to give up the chair.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP, "THE CBS EVENING NEWS")
RATHER: It has been and remains an honor to be welcomed into your home each evening, and I thank you for the trust you've given me.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
ANDY ROONEY, "60 MINUTES" CORRESPONDENT: I think it's a good thing to do. He's about 15 years after Cronkite stepped down, that much older. So he's had a good run, and it's been great.
CARROLL: Rather's contract ran until 2006. Now, his last day as anchor is March 9 ,2005, 24 years to the day since he took over. A bittersweet ending, according to his agent, who says Rather decided, in part, the timing was right because he had gotten through another election cycle.
Discussions about his departure heated up this past summer, months before the release of a "60 Minutes" story in which Rather and the network came under intense fire. The story alleged President Bush received special treatment to get him out of duties while serving in the Texas Air National Guard. Initially, Rather stood by the story and its source.
RATHER: The story is true.
CARROLL: In the end, CBS admitted it could not authenticate the document they had heavily based their story on.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP, "THE CBS EVENING NEWS")
RATHER: I want to say personally and directly, I'm sorry.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
CARROLL: The incident is still under review.
MARC BERMAN, "MEDIA WEEK": That might have led to his exit earlier than he was going to leave. But I think people also realize that people make mistakes and things happen. I don't think that's going to tarnish him at all.
CARROLL: Overall, the 73-year-old has had a distinguished career in journalism. His plans now, work primarily for "60 Minutes" until his contract runs out.
(on camera): There has been much speculation about who Dan Rather's replacement will be. Some of the names being mentioned: CBS News correspondent John Roberts, as well as "60 Minutes" correspondent Scott Pelley. Most media analysts agree some sort of announcement will be made fairly soon.
Jason Carroll, CNN, New York.
(END VIDEO TAPE)
COSTELLO: You would think so, huh? Who knows, though?
It bring us to our DAYBREAK E-Mail Question of the Day, because there's been so much controversy surrounding Dan Rather, we wanted to find out from you how do you think Dan Rather's departure will affect CBS. Daybreak@cnn.com. Daybreak@cnn.com. please, give us your thoughts. We're always glad to hear them.
Dan Rather isn't the only network anchor who's leaving the big chair. You probably have heard this. NBC announced in April that Tom Brokaw will retire on December 1. Brian Williams will take over. Brokaw has been the face of NBC Nightly News since 1983.
Here's what we're working on for you in the next half hour of DAYBREAK.
Some new airport security measures might slow you up on your trip home this holiday, not to mention the stormy weather. It is nasty in many parts of the country. Chad will tell you what to expect as you continue packing this morning. And there's no sign the locusts swarming across Africa are slowing down. We'll tell you where the bugs are headed next.
From New York and Atlanta, this is DAYBREAK for a Wednesday morning.
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