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CNN Live At Daybreak

Fight for Iraq, Damage Control

Aired April 19, 2004 - 06:30   ET

THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.

THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.


CAROL COSTELLO, CNN ANCHOR: Good morning to you from the CNN global headquarters in Atlanta. I'm Carol Costello. Here are the latest headlines for you now.
A new book about President Bush's Iraq war plan goes on sale today. In the book, noted journalist Bob Woodward reveals that the president kept some decisions on the war secret from his key cabinet members.

Sirens wail in Israel this morning. It's the annual Holocaust Remembrance Day. Observances are also planned for many cities in the United States today.

North Korea's reclusive leader, Kim Jong Il, arrived in Beijing, China, today. He went straight into talks on his nuclear weapons program with China's president. Washington had urged Beijing to push for an end to the crisis.

A man who has admitted to molesting more than 200 victims is back behind bars. Authorities in Oregon arrested Edward Stokes (ph). He had been released from a California prison after a rape conviction was reversed.

(WEATHER BREAK)

COSTELLO: Watergate journalist Bob Woodward's new book on the Iraq war has Washington tongues wagging, even before its release later this morning. The media has been reporting excerpts from "Plan of Attack," which details planning for the war. Woodward describes Vice President Dick Cheney as the steamrolling force behind the decision to go to war with Iraq, and Woodward claims Cheney's intent drove a wedge between Colin Powell and the vice president.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP, CBS "60 MINUTES")

BOB WOODWARD, "WASHINGTON POST": Colin Powell, the secretary of state, saw this in Cheney to a certain extent, he, Powell, told colleagues that Cheney has a fever. It is an absolute fever. It's almost as if nothing else exists.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

COSTELLO: Bob Woodward will talk more about "Plan of Attack," his book, on CNN's "LARRY KING LIVE." That airs tonight at 9:00 Eastern.

Well, the White House is in damage control mode over Spain's plan to withdraw troops from Iraq as soon as possible. Israel's latest assassination of a Hamas leader is also causing concern.

Our White House correspondent, Suzanne Malveaux, has details.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

SUZANNE MALVEAUX, CNN WHITE HOUSE CORRESPONDENT (voice-over): President Bush, eager to hold the coalition in Iraq together, Sunday saw signs of a crack. Spain's new prime minister announced that his country was immediately pulling out its troops.

Earlier, National Security Adviser Condoleezza Rice tried to blunt the blow that was to come.

CONDOLEEZZA RICE, NATIONAL SECURITY ADVISER: We know that the Spanish have been talking about perhaps pulling their forces out. I would not be surprised at all if they do. We know that there are others who are going to have to assess how they see the risk. But we have a vibrant and robust coalition on the ground.

MALVEAUX: The coalition with troops on the ground now numbers 33. Spain's new leader initially had said he would keep troops in place, provided a new U.N. Security Council resolution would give him political cover.

The White House released a statement, saying: "We are grateful to our other coalition partners for their recent expressions of solidarity. We will continue our close cooperation with our NATO ally, Spain, in fighting the war against terror."

Lawmakers expressed regret and concern.

SEN. JOE LIEBERMAN, (D-CT) ARMED SERVICES COMMITTEE: I hope that al Qaeda does not misinterpret this, and I hope it's temporary and the Spaniards will be back.

MALVEAUX: Spain's pullout comes at a crucial time for the Bush administration, now trying to galvanize support on Iraq from Arab leaders.

Another challenge for Mr. Bush's Middle East policy: Israel's assassination of Hamas' new leader. It was just last week Mr. Bush endorsed Israel's plan to pull out of Gaza, but keep some of the West Bank settlements in place. The green light for that proposal, which enraged Palestinians and many Arabs, has fueled the perception for some in the Arab world that Mr. Bush also gave the go-ahead for the Hamas assassination.

RICE: Given that we had just talked about trying to get the road map under way in the Middle East, trying to get the Gaza disengagement plan under way, then the timing is not helpful.

SEN. JOHN WARNER, (R-VA) ARMED SERVICES COMMITTEE: The timing of this assassination concerns me, because just as you saw pictures earlier of literally tens of thousands of people in the Palestinian areas expressing their remorse, expressing their anger, that same picture is on every television camera, every television set in Iraq. MALVEAUX (on camera): And more critical Middle East talks this week with Deputy Secretary of State Richard Armitage traveling through the region and President Bush to meet with Jordan's King Abdullah here at the White House on Wednesday.

Suzanne Malveaux, CNN, the White House.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

COSTELLO: For more on Spain's immediate withdrawal from Iraq and a quick vote expressing your opinion, log on to our Web site at CNN.com.

Still to come on DAYBREAK, it's time for the boys of summer and a longstanding rivalry in full swing. Did you catch New York-Boston? Chris Cotter covers all the bases coming up.

Then, a sheep on the run. It's a shear problem for the people in one community. You've got to see more of this animal. We'll be right back.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

COSTELLO: It is 6:40 Eastern Time. Time for a little business buzz.

It might as well be the age of bottled water. There is spring water and water filtered from the tap. But if you're really thirsty, how about a little salty water?

This is such a strange story, Carrie Lee.

CARRIE LEE, CNN FINANCIAL NEWS: It is, Carol. But, you know, different cultures have different ideas about what's good for you. Bottled sea water is a hit with Japanese consumers. So, a couple of companies in Hawaii are capitalizing on this idea. In fact, bottled sea water is one of the state's fastest growing exports, and companies are selling the bottles of Hawaiian sea water for up to $33 each for a two-ounce bottle.

Published reports are talking about this story today. Japanese people believe this is a dietary supplement, but adds to weight loss, stress reduction and skin tone. So, with benefits like that, Carol, maybe $33 isn't too high of a price to pay.

COSTELLO: But wait a minute. Wouldn't any salt water do? Why does it have to come from Hawaii? Not that I'm slamming Hawaii or anything.

LEE: Well, they're adding some jobs there. I guess maybe it's a combination of having the capability to build plants there. In fact, that's what they're doing. Some companies have invested $64 million already. They're planning to throw another $100 million more. Hawaii has the reputation, of course, of being a very beautiful and pristine place. So, who knows?

(CROSSTALK)

COSTELLO: So, do you drink this salt water? Do you drink the sea water to give yourself these benefits?

LEE: That's right. Now, I don't know exactly what it tastes like. I haven't had the chance to try it. But who knows? If it takes off, we might have it at a delicatessen in the U.S. down the road.

COSTELLO: One never knows.

A quick look at the futures.

LEE: Things are looking a little bit weak to flat this morning, Carol, after a mixed market we law week. We saw a lot of selling among technology issues. The Nasdaq down 2.8 percent on the week, as you can see. A lot of profit reports coming out this week, including Eli Lilly, also Wachovia, the big bank, Dow component 3M and Charles Schwab.

So, profits are really the big story -- or one of the big stories for Wall Street this week.

COSTELLO: All right, Carrie Lee reporting live from the Nasdaq Marketsite.

Your news, money, weather and sports. It is 6:42 Eastern Time. Here's what's all new this morning.

Homeland Security Director Tom Ridge is expected to announce plans this morning to accelerate preparation for a future terrorist attack. The move is being made ahead of high-profile events, like the Republican and Democratic National Conventions.

Today is the 11th anniversary of the fiery end to the standoff with the Branch Davidians in Waco, Texas. Seventy-seven people died in that siege, many of them children.

In money news, "Kill Bill: Vol. 2" tops at the box office. The sequel pulled in more than $25 million in its debut weekend. That's 3.5 million more than Volume 1.

In the world of sports, Rusty Wallace finally got his way back to the winner's circle. Wallace got his first NASCAR victory in almost three years by winning Sunday's race in Martinsville, Virginia.

In culture, VH1 held its seventh annual divas concert in Las Vegas. The star-studded affair included performance by Patty LaBelle, Jessica Simpson and Debbie Harry.

(WEATHER BREAK)

CHAD MYERS, CNN METEOROLOGIST: What I have to say about that is congratulations.

(WEATHER BREAK) COSTELLO: Those are the latest headlines for you.

Still to come on DAYBREAK, it's so much more than a bike race, Lance Armstrong on a southern tour.

Plus, Britain's athletic prince. How did he do the first time in the water as polo captain?

That and much more straight ahead.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

COSTELLO: Welcome back to DAYBREAK. It's 6:48 Eastern Time. Time to check in with Bill and Soledad in New York for a look at what's coming up on "AMERICAN MORNING."

And you're going to have Mrs. Hamill (ph) on that show. That should be really very emotional actually.

BILL HEMMER, CNN ANCHOR: Yes. Carol, good morning to you and happy Monday.

The State Department apparently calls her every day. We'll find out whether or not she's getting any information about the whereabouts of her husband. Jessie Jackson may get involved, too, so we'll talk about that with her this morning.

SOLEDAD O'BRIEN, CNN ANCHOR: You really cannot even imagine what someone is going through when that's happening.

HEMMER: Oh, yes, exactly.

O'BRIEN: It really -- it will be fascinating to talk to her.

Also this morning, we've been talking about this Bob Woodward book. Well, we've got to talk a little bit more about the revelations. We're going to talk to Jeff Greenfield. David Gergen is going to join us, and Carlos Watson will give us some analysis as well.

HEMMER: A lot to talk about there.

Also, SUV tests for mid-sized trucks -- actually the SUV trucks against mid-sized cars and side impact crashes. There's a list out that's lets you know what fares well and what does not. We'll give you a little bit of a hint here. The SUV wins most of the time, so we'll have that for you.

O'BRIEN: I would have guessed that.

HEMMER: I tell you. Jack Cafferty, too. See you at the top of the hour, 11 minutes away, Carol, on a Monday morning.

COSTELLO: All right, thanks so much.

HEMMER: OK. COSTELLO: Unseasonably warm weather could make today's Boston marathon a whole lot tougher. Temperatures are expected to reach the mid-80s closer to noon when the starting pistol goes off. There will be additional water supplies and extra medical personnel along the route, but experts say the runners can probably forget about setting personal best times. But, you know, you just never know. Some people are just fabulous athletes and the weather doesn't matter a bit. So, the Boston marathon is under way.

Lance Armstrong is on the road here down south stronger than ever. And the Yankees, what a bust so far.

Chris Cotter...

CHRIS COTTER, CNN SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR: It doesn't look pretty. Yes.

COSTELLO: Chris Cotter, sports guy, is here to sort it all out for us.

COTTER: Well...

COSTELLO: Here to talk about sports.

COTTER: I mean, let's talk about the Red Sox and the Yankees. It's Patriots Day today. You saw the Boston marathon. They'll play at 11:00 this morning, the Yanks and Red Sox will. And, I mean, if the Yankees win today, they still get a split in Boston. So, I mean, the win yesterday was huge for them and Jeter coming through. And A- Rod and Jeter both have struggled in this series, and I think that's the one thing Yankees...

(CROSSTALK)

COSTELLO: (UNINTELLIGIBLE) and especially A-Rod.

COTTER: A-Rod is off to...

COSTELLO: I think he's batting 171.

COTTER: He's off to a bad start. And, you know, when you're slumping, the worst place you want to be as a Yankee is to go into Boston and continue that slump, because you know the folks are going to give it to you up there in New York. And they are, and that's what he bargained for. You know, he wanted to be a Yankee in the off- season, and this is what you're going to get -- the good with the bad.

COSTELLO: The good with -- so, how long will it take for George Steinbrenner to fire off a memo?

COTTER: I mean, you know what? George Steinbrenner can do whatever he wants to do here in the spring. A-Rod is the best player in the game. He still is. Derek Jeter is right up there with him. These guys are veterans. They know how to work through slumps. They've been through it before. The Yankees are struggling now, but it's 162 games. I don't have to remind you of that, Detroit Tigers fan, they will be back.

COSTELLO: Detroit actually has a better record and a better batting average team-wise than the New York Yankees.

COTTER: I can't see it.

COSTELLO: I'm telling you.

COTTER: I'm not raining on your parade.

COSTELLO: Padge (ph) is back by 333, Chris.

COTTER: Enjoy it while you've got it.

COSTELLO: All right.

COTTER: It's great for Tiger fans to finally have a little success.

COSTELLO: Definitely so.

I want to talk about Lance Armstrong.

MYERS: Yes, he's going for No. 6. You know, I mean, he's 32. The last person to try to go for No. 6 was also 32 and just didn't make it. He didn't have the stamina. I think Lance might.

COSTELLO: But what is the Tour of Georgia? Frankly, I don't know much about the Tour of Georgia.

COTTER: Well, it's only its second year for the Tour de Georgia. Last year, it was the inaugural race. And this year, Lance Armstrong is coming to the states to race in it. You know, last year he struggled a little bit in the Tour de France, and he attributed a lot of that to over-training and over-racing and racing in some really hard races in the spring.

He's decided this year to come back to the states to, you know, change his routine up a little bit. And this is the first major stage race he's raced here in the states since before his cancer.

MYERS: Is that right?

COTTER: So, it's a rarity for him to come back to the states to train to get ready for the Tour de France. So, it's a really big deal this weekend.

COSTELLO: Oh, I bet, and I bet it's attracting a lot more people.

COTTER: It is. I mean, when you talk about coming here to Georgia to race in the North Georgia Mountains, not quite the Alps or the Pyrenees, but still an early season test for him. I wouldn't be surprised though if he didn't try and win this Tour de Georgia, because, you know, it takes a strong team around you to win the Tour de France.

MYERS: Of course, it does.

COTTER: He may reward his teammates -- one of his teammates with a win here at the Tour de Georgia, help one of them win as a reward for helping him later on in July in the Tour de France.

MYERS: I mean, you just think, we've heard that he's win, win, win, win, but it's a team sport. Yes, one person wins, but everybody drafts him for him. They got faster for him. They become the rabbit for him. You know, they don't give anybody else the chance to win except for Lance.

COTTER: He's had some riders ride for him for five years, giving up every chance they have to win just so he can win. So, this is an opportunity for him to reward some of these other guys.

COSTELLO: And that's absolutely amazing. Chris Cotter, thank you very much. You'll be back with us next Monday.

COTTER: That's right.

COSTELLO: We look forward to it.

All right, it is time -- oh, Chris, you get to kind of participate in this.

COTTER: Oh, cool, all right.

COSTELLO: Lucky, lucky you.

MYERS: When do I get mine? How about that?

COTTER: You can (UNINTELLIGIBLE).

COSTELLO: Only if you can answer these questions.

COTTER: (UNINTELLIGIBLE) quiz.

MYERS: Yes, it's a quiz. You have to get both of them, and you have to e-mail us not only your name, but also your address, so we know where to send it.

In Bob Woodward's new book, he claims that that Saudi Prince Bandar was also notified about the Iraq war plans before which Bush cabinet member?

And in Julie Vallese's report about the side impact airbags, what was that organization? What's the name of that organization? Or, if you want to, what are the letters of that organization that does all of that side impact airbag crash testing and all of that?

COSTELLO: And, of course, we will name the winner tomorrow at 6:10 Eastern Time, and we'll have new questions for you at 6:50 Eastern every day on DAYBREAK.

Chad will join me for "The Lightning Round" coming up, but first the latest headlines for you.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

COSTELLO: Oh, yes, it is time for the cheesy segment of today on DAYBREAK, "The Lightning Round." So, let's get going, shall we, Chad?

MYERS: I'm ready.

COSTELLO: A hair-raising feat, or at least hair-pulling. A 14- year-old boy in Russia set a new world record by pulling two tram carriages. That's more than 35 tons, Chad, and he pulled it with his hair.

MYERS: That's nice.

COSTELLO: Why do people decide to do things like that?

MYERS: To get on CNN?

COSTELLO: Oh, OK.

MYERS: Maybe.

COSTELLO: They're not real gladiators. Oh, no. Just history enthusiasts celebrating the birth of Rome with a march around the city's famous landmarks. Look at them. According to Legend, Rome was born on April 21, 1753 B.C., but Rome, of course, wasn't built in a day.

MYERS: No, but go see the Pantheon if you ever go to Rome. It's just...

COSTELLO: Is that not amazing?

MYERS: ... phenomenal.

COSTELLO: No, the Coliseum here, it's amazing how modern it is.

MYERS: Yes, exactly. It looks like -- well, like something built in Cincinnati back in the '70s or '80s, right? I mean...

COSTELLO: I'm telling you, it's amazing.

MYERS: It's like Riverfront.

COSTELLO: The gates are marked. You know, they had box seats for the rich people and everything else.

MYERS: Yes.

COSTELLO: Foot-long of fleece is covering this male sheep, nicknamed Shrek, by the neighbors who keep trying to track him down and shear him. He's a sneaky one, though. He's been on the lam for six years. He just keeps evading people. Shearers say he could provide more than 20 men's suits with all that wool. It's amazing something like that can run so fast.

MYERS: I can't believe he's not hot in that thing.

(CROSSTALK)

COSTELLO: Yes, he should want to get rid of some that stuff.

One of the world's largest flying boats is back in the air again. The Dornyai (ph) 24-ATT was used in World War II. Now, it will be offered to police for search and rescue missions and VIP passengers.

And let's take a look at Prince William. He made his debut as the captain of his university water polo team this weekend. He didn't get any royal treatment. He was dunked and tacked just like everyone else.

"AMERICAN MORNING" starts right now. You make it a great day.

MYERS: See you tomorrow, Carol.

TO ORDER A VIDEO OF THIS TRANSCRIPT, PLEASE CALL 800-CNN-NEWS OR USE OUR SECURE ONLINE ORDER FORM LOCATED AT www.fdch.com.


Aired April 19, 2004 - 06:30   ET
THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.
CAROL COSTELLO, CNN ANCHOR: Good morning to you from the CNN global headquarters in Atlanta. I'm Carol Costello. Here are the latest headlines for you now.
A new book about President Bush's Iraq war plan goes on sale today. In the book, noted journalist Bob Woodward reveals that the president kept some decisions on the war secret from his key cabinet members.

Sirens wail in Israel this morning. It's the annual Holocaust Remembrance Day. Observances are also planned for many cities in the United States today.

North Korea's reclusive leader, Kim Jong Il, arrived in Beijing, China, today. He went straight into talks on his nuclear weapons program with China's president. Washington had urged Beijing to push for an end to the crisis.

A man who has admitted to molesting more than 200 victims is back behind bars. Authorities in Oregon arrested Edward Stokes (ph). He had been released from a California prison after a rape conviction was reversed.

(WEATHER BREAK)

COSTELLO: Watergate journalist Bob Woodward's new book on the Iraq war has Washington tongues wagging, even before its release later this morning. The media has been reporting excerpts from "Plan of Attack," which details planning for the war. Woodward describes Vice President Dick Cheney as the steamrolling force behind the decision to go to war with Iraq, and Woodward claims Cheney's intent drove a wedge between Colin Powell and the vice president.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP, CBS "60 MINUTES")

BOB WOODWARD, "WASHINGTON POST": Colin Powell, the secretary of state, saw this in Cheney to a certain extent, he, Powell, told colleagues that Cheney has a fever. It is an absolute fever. It's almost as if nothing else exists.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

COSTELLO: Bob Woodward will talk more about "Plan of Attack," his book, on CNN's "LARRY KING LIVE." That airs tonight at 9:00 Eastern.

Well, the White House is in damage control mode over Spain's plan to withdraw troops from Iraq as soon as possible. Israel's latest assassination of a Hamas leader is also causing concern.

Our White House correspondent, Suzanne Malveaux, has details.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

SUZANNE MALVEAUX, CNN WHITE HOUSE CORRESPONDENT (voice-over): President Bush, eager to hold the coalition in Iraq together, Sunday saw signs of a crack. Spain's new prime minister announced that his country was immediately pulling out its troops.

Earlier, National Security Adviser Condoleezza Rice tried to blunt the blow that was to come.

CONDOLEEZZA RICE, NATIONAL SECURITY ADVISER: We know that the Spanish have been talking about perhaps pulling their forces out. I would not be surprised at all if they do. We know that there are others who are going to have to assess how they see the risk. But we have a vibrant and robust coalition on the ground.

MALVEAUX: The coalition with troops on the ground now numbers 33. Spain's new leader initially had said he would keep troops in place, provided a new U.N. Security Council resolution would give him political cover.

The White House released a statement, saying: "We are grateful to our other coalition partners for their recent expressions of solidarity. We will continue our close cooperation with our NATO ally, Spain, in fighting the war against terror."

Lawmakers expressed regret and concern.

SEN. JOE LIEBERMAN, (D-CT) ARMED SERVICES COMMITTEE: I hope that al Qaeda does not misinterpret this, and I hope it's temporary and the Spaniards will be back.

MALVEAUX: Spain's pullout comes at a crucial time for the Bush administration, now trying to galvanize support on Iraq from Arab leaders.

Another challenge for Mr. Bush's Middle East policy: Israel's assassination of Hamas' new leader. It was just last week Mr. Bush endorsed Israel's plan to pull out of Gaza, but keep some of the West Bank settlements in place. The green light for that proposal, which enraged Palestinians and many Arabs, has fueled the perception for some in the Arab world that Mr. Bush also gave the go-ahead for the Hamas assassination.

RICE: Given that we had just talked about trying to get the road map under way in the Middle East, trying to get the Gaza disengagement plan under way, then the timing is not helpful.

SEN. JOHN WARNER, (R-VA) ARMED SERVICES COMMITTEE: The timing of this assassination concerns me, because just as you saw pictures earlier of literally tens of thousands of people in the Palestinian areas expressing their remorse, expressing their anger, that same picture is on every television camera, every television set in Iraq. MALVEAUX (on camera): And more critical Middle East talks this week with Deputy Secretary of State Richard Armitage traveling through the region and President Bush to meet with Jordan's King Abdullah here at the White House on Wednesday.

Suzanne Malveaux, CNN, the White House.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

COSTELLO: For more on Spain's immediate withdrawal from Iraq and a quick vote expressing your opinion, log on to our Web site at CNN.com.

Still to come on DAYBREAK, it's time for the boys of summer and a longstanding rivalry in full swing. Did you catch New York-Boston? Chris Cotter covers all the bases coming up.

Then, a sheep on the run. It's a shear problem for the people in one community. You've got to see more of this animal. We'll be right back.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

COSTELLO: It is 6:40 Eastern Time. Time for a little business buzz.

It might as well be the age of bottled water. There is spring water and water filtered from the tap. But if you're really thirsty, how about a little salty water?

This is such a strange story, Carrie Lee.

CARRIE LEE, CNN FINANCIAL NEWS: It is, Carol. But, you know, different cultures have different ideas about what's good for you. Bottled sea water is a hit with Japanese consumers. So, a couple of companies in Hawaii are capitalizing on this idea. In fact, bottled sea water is one of the state's fastest growing exports, and companies are selling the bottles of Hawaiian sea water for up to $33 each for a two-ounce bottle.

Published reports are talking about this story today. Japanese people believe this is a dietary supplement, but adds to weight loss, stress reduction and skin tone. So, with benefits like that, Carol, maybe $33 isn't too high of a price to pay.

COSTELLO: But wait a minute. Wouldn't any salt water do? Why does it have to come from Hawaii? Not that I'm slamming Hawaii or anything.

LEE: Well, they're adding some jobs there. I guess maybe it's a combination of having the capability to build plants there. In fact, that's what they're doing. Some companies have invested $64 million already. They're planning to throw another $100 million more. Hawaii has the reputation, of course, of being a very beautiful and pristine place. So, who knows?

(CROSSTALK)

COSTELLO: So, do you drink this salt water? Do you drink the sea water to give yourself these benefits?

LEE: That's right. Now, I don't know exactly what it tastes like. I haven't had the chance to try it. But who knows? If it takes off, we might have it at a delicatessen in the U.S. down the road.

COSTELLO: One never knows.

A quick look at the futures.

LEE: Things are looking a little bit weak to flat this morning, Carol, after a mixed market we law week. We saw a lot of selling among technology issues. The Nasdaq down 2.8 percent on the week, as you can see. A lot of profit reports coming out this week, including Eli Lilly, also Wachovia, the big bank, Dow component 3M and Charles Schwab.

So, profits are really the big story -- or one of the big stories for Wall Street this week.

COSTELLO: All right, Carrie Lee reporting live from the Nasdaq Marketsite.

Your news, money, weather and sports. It is 6:42 Eastern Time. Here's what's all new this morning.

Homeland Security Director Tom Ridge is expected to announce plans this morning to accelerate preparation for a future terrorist attack. The move is being made ahead of high-profile events, like the Republican and Democratic National Conventions.

Today is the 11th anniversary of the fiery end to the standoff with the Branch Davidians in Waco, Texas. Seventy-seven people died in that siege, many of them children.

In money news, "Kill Bill: Vol. 2" tops at the box office. The sequel pulled in more than $25 million in its debut weekend. That's 3.5 million more than Volume 1.

In the world of sports, Rusty Wallace finally got his way back to the winner's circle. Wallace got his first NASCAR victory in almost three years by winning Sunday's race in Martinsville, Virginia.

In culture, VH1 held its seventh annual divas concert in Las Vegas. The star-studded affair included performance by Patty LaBelle, Jessica Simpson and Debbie Harry.

(WEATHER BREAK)

CHAD MYERS, CNN METEOROLOGIST: What I have to say about that is congratulations.

(WEATHER BREAK) COSTELLO: Those are the latest headlines for you.

Still to come on DAYBREAK, it's so much more than a bike race, Lance Armstrong on a southern tour.

Plus, Britain's athletic prince. How did he do the first time in the water as polo captain?

That and much more straight ahead.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

COSTELLO: Welcome back to DAYBREAK. It's 6:48 Eastern Time. Time to check in with Bill and Soledad in New York for a look at what's coming up on "AMERICAN MORNING."

And you're going to have Mrs. Hamill (ph) on that show. That should be really very emotional actually.

BILL HEMMER, CNN ANCHOR: Yes. Carol, good morning to you and happy Monday.

The State Department apparently calls her every day. We'll find out whether or not she's getting any information about the whereabouts of her husband. Jessie Jackson may get involved, too, so we'll talk about that with her this morning.

SOLEDAD O'BRIEN, CNN ANCHOR: You really cannot even imagine what someone is going through when that's happening.

HEMMER: Oh, yes, exactly.

O'BRIEN: It really -- it will be fascinating to talk to her.

Also this morning, we've been talking about this Bob Woodward book. Well, we've got to talk a little bit more about the revelations. We're going to talk to Jeff Greenfield. David Gergen is going to join us, and Carlos Watson will give us some analysis as well.

HEMMER: A lot to talk about there.

Also, SUV tests for mid-sized trucks -- actually the SUV trucks against mid-sized cars and side impact crashes. There's a list out that's lets you know what fares well and what does not. We'll give you a little bit of a hint here. The SUV wins most of the time, so we'll have that for you.

O'BRIEN: I would have guessed that.

HEMMER: I tell you. Jack Cafferty, too. See you at the top of the hour, 11 minutes away, Carol, on a Monday morning.

COSTELLO: All right, thanks so much.

HEMMER: OK. COSTELLO: Unseasonably warm weather could make today's Boston marathon a whole lot tougher. Temperatures are expected to reach the mid-80s closer to noon when the starting pistol goes off. There will be additional water supplies and extra medical personnel along the route, but experts say the runners can probably forget about setting personal best times. But, you know, you just never know. Some people are just fabulous athletes and the weather doesn't matter a bit. So, the Boston marathon is under way.

Lance Armstrong is on the road here down south stronger than ever. And the Yankees, what a bust so far.

Chris Cotter...

CHRIS COTTER, CNN SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR: It doesn't look pretty. Yes.

COSTELLO: Chris Cotter, sports guy, is here to sort it all out for us.

COTTER: Well...

COSTELLO: Here to talk about sports.

COTTER: I mean, let's talk about the Red Sox and the Yankees. It's Patriots Day today. You saw the Boston marathon. They'll play at 11:00 this morning, the Yanks and Red Sox will. And, I mean, if the Yankees win today, they still get a split in Boston. So, I mean, the win yesterday was huge for them and Jeter coming through. And A- Rod and Jeter both have struggled in this series, and I think that's the one thing Yankees...

(CROSSTALK)

COSTELLO: (UNINTELLIGIBLE) and especially A-Rod.

COTTER: A-Rod is off to...

COSTELLO: I think he's batting 171.

COTTER: He's off to a bad start. And, you know, when you're slumping, the worst place you want to be as a Yankee is to go into Boston and continue that slump, because you know the folks are going to give it to you up there in New York. And they are, and that's what he bargained for. You know, he wanted to be a Yankee in the off- season, and this is what you're going to get -- the good with the bad.

COSTELLO: The good with -- so, how long will it take for George Steinbrenner to fire off a memo?

COTTER: I mean, you know what? George Steinbrenner can do whatever he wants to do here in the spring. A-Rod is the best player in the game. He still is. Derek Jeter is right up there with him. These guys are veterans. They know how to work through slumps. They've been through it before. The Yankees are struggling now, but it's 162 games. I don't have to remind you of that, Detroit Tigers fan, they will be back.

COSTELLO: Detroit actually has a better record and a better batting average team-wise than the New York Yankees.

COTTER: I can't see it.

COSTELLO: I'm telling you.

COTTER: I'm not raining on your parade.

COSTELLO: Padge (ph) is back by 333, Chris.

COTTER: Enjoy it while you've got it.

COSTELLO: All right.

COTTER: It's great for Tiger fans to finally have a little success.

COSTELLO: Definitely so.

I want to talk about Lance Armstrong.

MYERS: Yes, he's going for No. 6. You know, I mean, he's 32. The last person to try to go for No. 6 was also 32 and just didn't make it. He didn't have the stamina. I think Lance might.

COSTELLO: But what is the Tour of Georgia? Frankly, I don't know much about the Tour of Georgia.

COTTER: Well, it's only its second year for the Tour de Georgia. Last year, it was the inaugural race. And this year, Lance Armstrong is coming to the states to race in it. You know, last year he struggled a little bit in the Tour de France, and he attributed a lot of that to over-training and over-racing and racing in some really hard races in the spring.

He's decided this year to come back to the states to, you know, change his routine up a little bit. And this is the first major stage race he's raced here in the states since before his cancer.

MYERS: Is that right?

COTTER: So, it's a rarity for him to come back to the states to train to get ready for the Tour de France. So, it's a really big deal this weekend.

COSTELLO: Oh, I bet, and I bet it's attracting a lot more people.

COTTER: It is. I mean, when you talk about coming here to Georgia to race in the North Georgia Mountains, not quite the Alps or the Pyrenees, but still an early season test for him. I wouldn't be surprised though if he didn't try and win this Tour de Georgia, because, you know, it takes a strong team around you to win the Tour de France.

MYERS: Of course, it does.

COTTER: He may reward his teammates -- one of his teammates with a win here at the Tour de Georgia, help one of them win as a reward for helping him later on in July in the Tour de France.

MYERS: I mean, you just think, we've heard that he's win, win, win, win, but it's a team sport. Yes, one person wins, but everybody drafts him for him. They got faster for him. They become the rabbit for him. You know, they don't give anybody else the chance to win except for Lance.

COTTER: He's had some riders ride for him for five years, giving up every chance they have to win just so he can win. So, this is an opportunity for him to reward some of these other guys.

COSTELLO: And that's absolutely amazing. Chris Cotter, thank you very much. You'll be back with us next Monday.

COTTER: That's right.

COSTELLO: We look forward to it.

All right, it is time -- oh, Chris, you get to kind of participate in this.

COTTER: Oh, cool, all right.

COSTELLO: Lucky, lucky you.

MYERS: When do I get mine? How about that?

COTTER: You can (UNINTELLIGIBLE).

COSTELLO: Only if you can answer these questions.

COTTER: (UNINTELLIGIBLE) quiz.

MYERS: Yes, it's a quiz. You have to get both of them, and you have to e-mail us not only your name, but also your address, so we know where to send it.

In Bob Woodward's new book, he claims that that Saudi Prince Bandar was also notified about the Iraq war plans before which Bush cabinet member?

And in Julie Vallese's report about the side impact airbags, what was that organization? What's the name of that organization? Or, if you want to, what are the letters of that organization that does all of that side impact airbag crash testing and all of that?

COSTELLO: And, of course, we will name the winner tomorrow at 6:10 Eastern Time, and we'll have new questions for you at 6:50 Eastern every day on DAYBREAK.

Chad will join me for "The Lightning Round" coming up, but first the latest headlines for you.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

COSTELLO: Oh, yes, it is time for the cheesy segment of today on DAYBREAK, "The Lightning Round." So, let's get going, shall we, Chad?

MYERS: I'm ready.

COSTELLO: A hair-raising feat, or at least hair-pulling. A 14- year-old boy in Russia set a new world record by pulling two tram carriages. That's more than 35 tons, Chad, and he pulled it with his hair.

MYERS: That's nice.

COSTELLO: Why do people decide to do things like that?

MYERS: To get on CNN?

COSTELLO: Oh, OK.

MYERS: Maybe.

COSTELLO: They're not real gladiators. Oh, no. Just history enthusiasts celebrating the birth of Rome with a march around the city's famous landmarks. Look at them. According to Legend, Rome was born on April 21, 1753 B.C., but Rome, of course, wasn't built in a day.

MYERS: No, but go see the Pantheon if you ever go to Rome. It's just...

COSTELLO: Is that not amazing?

MYERS: ... phenomenal.

COSTELLO: No, the Coliseum here, it's amazing how modern it is.

MYERS: Yes, exactly. It looks like -- well, like something built in Cincinnati back in the '70s or '80s, right? I mean...

COSTELLO: I'm telling you, it's amazing.

MYERS: It's like Riverfront.

COSTELLO: The gates are marked. You know, they had box seats for the rich people and everything else.

MYERS: Yes.

COSTELLO: Foot-long of fleece is covering this male sheep, nicknamed Shrek, by the neighbors who keep trying to track him down and shear him. He's a sneaky one, though. He's been on the lam for six years. He just keeps evading people. Shearers say he could provide more than 20 men's suits with all that wool. It's amazing something like that can run so fast.

MYERS: I can't believe he's not hot in that thing.

(CROSSTALK)

COSTELLO: Yes, he should want to get rid of some that stuff.

One of the world's largest flying boats is back in the air again. The Dornyai (ph) 24-ATT was used in World War II. Now, it will be offered to police for search and rescue missions and VIP passengers.

And let's take a look at Prince William. He made his debut as the captain of his university water polo team this weekend. He didn't get any royal treatment. He was dunked and tacked just like everyone else.

"AMERICAN MORNING" starts right now. You make it a great day.

MYERS: See you tomorrow, Carol.

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