Return to Transcripts main page
CNN Live At Daybreak
Last Respects for Ronald Reagan; G-8 Summit Wraps Today
Aired June 10, 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: And good morning to you from the CNN global headquarters in Atlanta. I'm Carol Costello. Let me bring you up-to-date now.
Throughout the night, thousands filed past the coffin containing the remains of Ronald Wilson Reagan. More than 200,000 people are expected to pay their respects to the former president in the Capitol Rotunda. This is a live picture you're looking at right now.
U.S. military commanders today refused to help Iraqi police battle elements of the Mehdi militia in Najaf. Here's what a senior U.S. officer had to say about the Iraqi police chief: 'He's got to learn how to deal with it on his own." The military later re-supplied Iraqi police with ammunition.
In money news, a U.S. House committee wants to block a Bermuda- based company from a $10 billion security contract to track visitors into the United States. The Appropriations Committee objects because the company is not based in the United States.
In sports, Texas Tech basketball coach Bobby Knight is expected to sign a three-year contract extension keeping him at the school through 2009. His current contract for $250,000 a year runs through 2006.
In culture, the city council of Paris wants to ban SUVs. Ban them! Sport utility vehicles are gaining in popularity throughout Europe, but the Paris council says the over-sized gas-guzzlers have no place on already-jammed streets.
(WEATHER BREAK)
COSTELLO: By this time tomorrow morning, perhaps as many as a quarter million people will have paid their last respects to Ronald Reagan. For some, it has been an all-night vigil and an all-night wait.
Bill Prasad live at the U.S. Capitol now.
I understand the wait this morning is about four hours.
BILL PRASAD, CNN CORRESPONDENT: That's right, Carol. People have been waiting in line, some of them three to five hours, to spend just a few seconds paying their last respects to Ronald Reagan.
Last night, there were very poignant moments at the Rotunda as the state funeral was held. As you may remember, Ronald Reagan is the first president to be sworn in on the West Front of the Capitol. Vice President Dick Cheney took us back to Ronald Reagan's inaugural address, saying that Mr. Reagan brought a message of hope to the nation.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
DICK CHENEY, VICE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES: Ronald Reagan spoke of a nation that was hopeful, big-hearted, idealistic, daring, decent and fair. That was how he saw America.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
PRASAD: Yesterday afternoon, traditions dating back to the 1700s, a horse-drawn caisson pulling the casket containing Ronald Reagan through downtown D.C., a large crowd lining the route. Each time it seems the crowd saw Nancy Reagan they tried to show their support. The applauded her. At one time one man yelled, "God bless you, Nancy."
Now, this morning, people are still in line waiting to see and pass on their final respects to Ronald Reagan. Officials are telling these people that they cannot stop in front of the casket; that they've got to keep moving. They're hoping to move as many as 5,000 people past the casket throughout the day.
As for the weather, it is cooperating. Yesterday temperatures got into the 90s. Some people suffered from heat exhaustion. Officials have brought in water, but so far today we're being told that temperatures will stay in the 80s, much better weather for what will take place today - Carol.
COSTELLO: Certainly so. Bill Prasad live in D.C. this morning.
Former President George H.W. Bush, who served as Reagan's vice president and then succeeded him office, talked about Reagan with Larry King. Bush says he's relieved that President Reagan's long battle with Alzheimer's is finally over.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
GEORGE H.W. BUSH, FORMER PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES: The battle is over, the victory won. I mean, he fought this thing without a lot of cognizance. But I think everybody said, look, it's been a long, long time. It's been a terrible burden on loyal wonderful Nancy. But life goes on. And at 93, he's got so much - his life meant so much to so many people that I think it's now a celebration rather than a sadness.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
COSTELLO: We have a special report on Ronald Reagan on our Web site. You can also get a history of state funerals. It's all there for you. Just go to CNN.com.
The G-8 Summit ends today in Sea Island, Georgia, with some heads of state going home and others heading to Washington for Ronald Reagan's funeral.
CNN's Eric Philips has a live report now from Savannah.
Good morning, Eric.
ERIC PHILIPS, CNN CORRESPONDENT: Carol, good morning to you.
G-8 members will meet today with leaders from Africa to discuss plans on famine relief and research for an AIDS vaccine, as well as increased peacekeeping troops in Africa. However, Iraq and the Middle East are never far from anyone's mind, especially not after yesterday's sit down between President Bush and the interim president of Iraq.
(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)
PHILIPS (voice over): The one-on-one meeting between Sheikh Ghazi al-Yawar and President Bush appeared to be a virtual love fest.
GHAZI AL-YAWAR, IRAQI PRESIDENT-DESIGNATE: Mr. President, I would like to express to you the commitment of the Iraqi people to move toward democracy.
GEORGE W. BUSH, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES: I really never thought I'd be sitting next to an Iraqi president of a free country a year and a half ago. And here you are.
PHILIPS: Now that a U.N. Security Council resolution clearing the way for a new Iraqi government has passed unanimously, Mr. Bush is proposing increased NATO participation in the reconstruction of Iraq -- a suggestion rebuffed by French President Jacques Chirac.
PRES. JACQUES CHIRAC, FRANCE (through translator): I do not believe that it is NATO's purpose to intervene in Iraq, nor do I believe that it would be relevant, appropriate or even well-understood by people in Iraq and abroad.
PHILIPS: G-8 members held a lunch with the heads of six mid- eastern countries to discuss democratic reform there -- reforms some in the region believe will be hindered by the conflicts between Israel and Palestine.
A clash between protestors and police Wednesday, as dozens of demonstrators in Brunswick, Georgia, attempted to gain access to a bridge to Saint Simons Island, next to the summit on Sea Island. The incident was brief, and no one was arrested.
(END VIDEOTAPE)
At the close of today's meeting, President Bush will head to Washington, where he will prepare for a eulogy at tomorrow's memorial service for former President Ronald Reagan -- Carol.
COSTELLO: Eric Philips live from Savannah this morning, thank you. The G-8 Summit is wrapping up, as Eric said. And President Bush will meet with reporters later this afternoon. That will happen around 4:00 Eastern, 1:00 Pacific Time. And CNN does plan live coverage.
It is a question with no easy answer: Who decides between life and death? Two parents plead for their infant son's life. Will a state supreme court step in? And did this mother and father commit a crime? We'll have more on that story when we come back.
And later, a road trip one group of friends will never forget, even though they're barely old enough to remember the Reagan presidency. This is DAYBREAK.
(COMMERCIAL BREAK)
COSTELLO: Time for a little business buzz. Soon you may be paying more for phone service, thanks to Uncle Sam.
Carrie Lee has more live at the Nasdaq Marketsite.
Why?
CARRIE LEE, CNN FINANCIAL NEWS: Well, Carol, it's a little complicated. Let me boil this down as quickly as possible.
The Bush administration and the Federal Communications Commission say they are not going to seek Supreme Court review of a court ruling that lets regional Bell operating companies, the regional Bell phone companies, deny rivals cut-rate access to their networks.
The way it works now, the Baby Bells pretty much have to give, at below cost in some cases, the rights for AT&T, MCI, Sprint -- companies like that -- to offer local phone service through their networks. Well, that rule is going to change on June 16, and what this means is that consumers could very well have to pay higher phone bills.
Basically, they're paying these -- or they're letting AT&T and MCI come into their networks now below cost, and that's allowed companies like AT&T and MCI to offer local and long distance calling for about $49 a month.
Well, now, the bottom line, this is going to mean very well higher prices for consumers. The Baby Bells won't have to sell these lines at discounted rates, so they won't have as much pressure to offer at lower rates. There will be less competition.
Meanwhile, AT&T and MCI are going to have to pay more to come into the networks, so they're going to have to raise prices as well.
So, a little bit confusing, Carol, but bottom line, we're probably going to see higher prices in the coming months.
Now, the Baby Bells say they're not going to raise prices this year, but you can bet pricing battles are going to come out from state to state over the next couple of months. So, we'll keep an eye on this story, but bottom line, not very good news for consumers.
COSTELLO: All right, Carrie Lee reporting live from the Nasdaq Marketsite.
The Ohio Supreme Court today hears the sad case of 7-month-old Aiden Stein (ph). Without action, the comatose baby's life may end tomorrow.
Denise Strezelczyk of CNN affiliate WOIO has more from Akron.
(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)
DENISE STREZELCZYK, CNN AFFILIATE WOIO REPORTER (voice over): This is a cute little boy at the center of a very ugly court battle. Little Aiden Stein, doctors say, is a victim of shaken-baby syndrome, on life support now for close to three months, largely brain-damaged with no hope of recovery.
ELLEN KAFOREY, COURT-APPOINTED GUARDIAN: Oh, there is no improvement. He does make movements with his hands and legs. He does open his eyes. But those are just voluntary movements, consistent with just, you know, brain stem activity.
STREZELCZYK: The baby's father, Matthew Stein, says his son choked on a bottle, but Stein is the focal point of an investigation, suspected of causing his son's shaken-baby syndrome. If Aiden dies, Matthew could be charged with murder.
Attorney Ellen Kaforey, a former nurse, is little Aiden's court- appointed guardian. She has recommended Aiden be taken off life support as early as this week.
KAFOREY: We intend to proceed to withdraw the ventilator from Aiden by Friday at noon.
STREZELCZYK: Aiden Stein's parents tried to get Ellen Kaforey removed as their son's legal guardian, but the court just denied their appeal. Now, their attorney says they won't allow little Aiden to die.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: My clients have not injured Aiden in any way, and they're certainly not going to cooperate in killing him, which is what she's asking.
(END VIDEOTAPE)
COSTELLO: Again, Denise Strezelczyk of CNN affiliate WOIO. We'll keep you posted on what happens next.
Your news, money, weather and sports. It is 6:44 Eastern. Here's what's all new this morning.
In Washington, President Reagan's flag-draped casket lies in state in the Rotunda of the U.S. Capitol. Thousands are waiting in line this morning. In fact, they waited throughout the night to pay their last respects to the 40th president. In the Scott Peterson murder trial, a relative of Laci Peterson's mother testifies that Scott told him he was playing golf and not fishing the day his wife disappeared. Peterson told police he was fishing that day.
In money news, Boeing has signed an agreement with Chinese firms to supply parts for a new fuel-efficient airliner it's building. Boeing also hopes China will buy a couple of thousand of those jets.
In sports, an NFL sources tells the Associated Press that Cleveland Browns quarterback Tom Couch will be released today. What a bizarre time he's had on that team. Couch was replaced by free agent Jeff Garcia in March.
In culture, an Orange County, California, politician is suggesting John Wayne Airport be renamed for the TV show, "The OC." This story just makes me laugh, I can't help it. Chris Norbee (ph) says "The OC" airport might be more appealing than an airport named for "the Duke." Do they think that will get more young passengers flying? I just don't get it.
(WEATHER BREAK)
COSTELLO: Those are the latest headlines for you.
Bill Hemmer is in Washington this morning, Soledad O'Brien in New York. Let's check in with them to see what's coming up on "AMERICAN MORNING."
Good morning.
SOLEDAD O'BRIEN, CNN ANCHOR: Hey, Carol, good morning.
BILL HEMMER, CNN ANCHOR: Carol, good morning to you. Again, we come live from the nation's capital. Soledad, nice to see you again this morning. I'll tell you, the crowds are starting to pick up yet again. It had dropped down to several thousand people in the line behind me, but they are coming now by the thousands. At least check, right around the 30,000 mark when they began here, the observation into the Rotunda on Capitol Hill. We'll be here throughout the morning talking to countless people, their reflections as to why they came to spend time today -- Soledad.
O'BRIEN: Well, also, this morning, Bill, we're going to be talking about President Bush. He's going to be heading back to Washington, D.C., to take part in some of the memorials for Ronald Reagan. We're going to assess the G-8 Summit as it wraps up. Dana Bush -- Bash, rather, whoops, is in Georgia for us this morning to give us an assessment of how it went.
Also this morning, we're talking about the campaign. There's a new poll from the "L.A. Times." Senator Kerry is leading in some important ways. Ron Brownstein, who is our correspondent, but also with the "L.A. Times," joins us with some assessment of some of these new numbers. Very interesting information coming out of that poll. That and much, much more all ahead on this "AMERICAN MORNING." We'll see you in just a few minutes -- Carol.
COSTELLO: All right, we'll be here. Thanks, Bill and Soledad.
So many people saying goodbye to Ronald Reagan this week are barely old enough to remember when he was president.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: In my opinion, we'll probably not see a president as good as President Mr. Reagan during our lifetimes.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
COSTELLO: We'll hear from some of the youngest Americans paying tribute to Ronald Reagan.
(COMMERCIAL BREAK)
COSTELLO: From California to the U.S. Capitol, mourners from coast to coast are making that tearful trip to Washington to say goodbye to Ronald Reagan.
CNN's Jason Bellini brings us the story of one man's travel.
(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)
JASON BELLINI, CNN CORRESPONDENT (voice-over): Angel Rivera (ph) began his above-average road trip in Indiana.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: President Reagan is waiting.
BELLINI: He and his friends recorded a video diary of their trip to Washington. Angel (ph) was 6 years old when President Ronald Reagan left office.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: He molded conservatism as we know it today.
BELLINI: He fell in love with Reagan reading about him.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: In my opinion, we probably will not see a president as good as President Reagan during our lifetimes, and I don't think I could forgive myself if I didn't come to his funeral. And here we are somewhere in southern Pennsylvania.
BELLINI: Angel (ph) grew up in San Juan, Puerto Rico. He studies political science at Indiana University and heads the Campus College Republicans. Angel (ph) picks up two friends who decide to fly.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: I'm a poor college student.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: The flight attendant was very, very friendly.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Did you get her number?
BELLINI: The group can quote Reagan the way college students more commonly quote music lyrics.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Thou shalt never speak ill of another Republican.
BELLINI: They go to the Washington Mall, planning to see the new World War II Memorial. They happen upon the caisson that later in the day will carry Reagan's coffin.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Hi, I'm Angel (ph).
BELLINI: One of the special moments captured on their video diary is a conversation with a horse rider from the Old Guard.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: I'm pretty proud to have the chance of meting you guys.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Thank you.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: How do you feel?
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: A little nervous, a little anxious.
BELLINI: They wait three hours in a position where they can see Nancy Reagan arrive, the loading of the coffin, and the caisson's departure.
When the coffin is gone, Angel (ph) does the sign of the cross.
(on camera): Worth the trip here?
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Yes.
BELLINI: Jason Bellini, CNN, Washington.
(END VIDEOTAPE)
COSTELLO: So worth the trip, even though it was so very hot yesterday in Washington. The wait this morning: four hours. Even at 5:00 a.m. Eastern, it was four hours.
CHAD MYERS, CNN METEOROLOGIST: Yes. Obviously the people that are filing by this morning, you can tell they're in their work clothes from yesterday. They're still dressed from when they went to work at 7:00 yesterday.
COSTELLO: And some of them were there before work this morning, hoping to get in, but I don't think they're going to make it before they have to be in at work on time.
MYERS: Yes.
COSTELLO: But here's a live picture inside the Capitol of people filing by.
MYERS: It was difficult to watch yesterday. It was very -- it was difficult to not swallow hard and get teary-eyed when you were watching Mrs. Reagan. It was just -- I watched the whole thing, and it was -- it's still difficult to talk about it this morning.
COSTELLO: You know, she was so strong and dignified and yet frail at the same time.
MYERS: Yes.
COSTELLO: You know, she's in her 80s, too.
MYERS: Right.
COSTELLO: But when she ran her hand over the top of that flag- draped coffin, it was very moving.
MYERS: Yes. It was.
COSTELLO: Very moving.
There's a new magazine coming out, we wanted to tell you about this morning.
MYERS: A new old magazine.
COSTELLO: Yes, a new old magazine, I guess we should put it that way. "TIME" magazine -- or "Life" magazine...
MYERS: "Life."
COSTELLO: Yes, "TIME" is the publisher.
MYERS: Right.
COSTELLO: But "Life" magazine is going to be part of your paper on Friday. It's going to be like an insert. You know on Sunday you get those "USA Today" magazine inserts? Well, "Life" is going to do sort of the same thing, but on Fridays, so as not to compete.
MYERS: Right. And 50 newspapers are picking it up already, which I think is pretty amazing for the first issue for 50 of them to pick it up. A lot of them want to look at it and make sure it's good and make sure it's what they want.
COSTELLO: To make sure they can sell it.
MYERS: Well, I guess you got that.
COSTELLO: So, look for that in select newspapers across the country.
MYERS: Right. Hey, you know what? We have to give away this mug, this exact one right here.
COSTELLO: All right. The most exciting time of our show.
MYERS: Exactly. From yesterday the questions: What well-known politician's daughter has decided to run for president on a reality TV show? Name that politician. And that was obviously Dick Gephardt and his daughter Chrissie Gephardt (ph). And the second question: In a poll last year, nearly half of all Saudis said they have a favorable view of whom? And that was Osama bin Laden.
And Tom Fitzpatrick from Drexel Hill, Pennsylvania, wins yesterday's/today's mug.
COSTELLO: Oh, the cup's in the mail, Tom. Congratulations!
MYERS: Yes. And you know what? If you are a mug winner, it does take a while to actually get the mug sometimes. Some people are waiting two or three weeks, because we...
COSTELLO: We have to pack it.
MYERS: Right.
COSTELLO: That bubble wrap is hard to get.
MYERS: It sure is.
And here are the questions for today. In what nation will the Olympic torch be carried today? We talked about that about 30 minutes ago. And what pop culture icon celebrates his 70th -- 70th birthday today? We'll name the winner tomorrow.
COSTELLO: And you may win that beautiful DAYBREAK cup. Daybreak@CNN.com. Daybreak@CNN.com.
We'll be right back. You stay right there.
MYERS: I'm glad you always say that.
(COMMERCIAL BREAK)
COSTELLO: Only two birthdays today. I'm sure there are more.
It is time for our "Lightning Round."
MYERS: OK.
COSTELLO: Get this. This is a man walking up 32 flights of stairs.
MYERS: On his hands!
COSTELLO: Watch him. God, he's amazing. This is taking place in Russia. It took him 40 minutes to walk up the stairs on his hands up 32 flights of stairs.
MYERS: And he's going down.
COSTELLO: Oh, he's going down.
MYERS: Is he going back up? Did he go back up, too? Oh, that would even be worse.
COSTELLO: No, I think he just went down.
MYERS: Oh, all right.
COSTELLO: Oh, what a wimp.
Where else but Germany would a confectioner come up with a treat like this? Truffles filled with beer flavorings. A beer truffle. Want a beer truffle with some foam on the top?
MYERS: No, no.
COSTELLO: The Bavarian beer chocolates are apparently quite popular with customers, though.
MYERS: Yes, those truffles are like $1,000 a pound.
COSTELLO: Are they really?
MYERS: Yes.
COSTELLO: I wonder if they are with the beer in them. I don't know.
MYERS: Maybe they're cheaper.
COSTELLO: Don't have a cow. Susie (ph) the cow already gave birth to one calf in her first year of breeding, then twins in her second.
MYERS: Oh!
COSTELLO: Now in year three, Susie (ph) has given birth to calf triplets.
MYERS: All right.
COSTELLO: I had to get that out fast because our time is done. "AMERICAN MORNING" starts right now.
MYERS: See you tomorrow.
TO ORDER A VIDEO OF THIS TRANSCRIPT, PLEASE CALL 800-CNN-NEWS OR USE OUR SECURE ONLINE ORDER FORM LOCATED AT www.fdch.com.
Aired June 10, 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: And good morning to you from the CNN global headquarters in Atlanta. I'm Carol Costello. Let me bring you up-to-date now.
Throughout the night, thousands filed past the coffin containing the remains of Ronald Wilson Reagan. More than 200,000 people are expected to pay their respects to the former president in the Capitol Rotunda. This is a live picture you're looking at right now.
U.S. military commanders today refused to help Iraqi police battle elements of the Mehdi militia in Najaf. Here's what a senior U.S. officer had to say about the Iraqi police chief: 'He's got to learn how to deal with it on his own." The military later re-supplied Iraqi police with ammunition.
In money news, a U.S. House committee wants to block a Bermuda- based company from a $10 billion security contract to track visitors into the United States. The Appropriations Committee objects because the company is not based in the United States.
In sports, Texas Tech basketball coach Bobby Knight is expected to sign a three-year contract extension keeping him at the school through 2009. His current contract for $250,000 a year runs through 2006.
In culture, the city council of Paris wants to ban SUVs. Ban them! Sport utility vehicles are gaining in popularity throughout Europe, but the Paris council says the over-sized gas-guzzlers have no place on already-jammed streets.
(WEATHER BREAK)
COSTELLO: By this time tomorrow morning, perhaps as many as a quarter million people will have paid their last respects to Ronald Reagan. For some, it has been an all-night vigil and an all-night wait.
Bill Prasad live at the U.S. Capitol now.
I understand the wait this morning is about four hours.
BILL PRASAD, CNN CORRESPONDENT: That's right, Carol. People have been waiting in line, some of them three to five hours, to spend just a few seconds paying their last respects to Ronald Reagan.
Last night, there were very poignant moments at the Rotunda as the state funeral was held. As you may remember, Ronald Reagan is the first president to be sworn in on the West Front of the Capitol. Vice President Dick Cheney took us back to Ronald Reagan's inaugural address, saying that Mr. Reagan brought a message of hope to the nation.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
DICK CHENEY, VICE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES: Ronald Reagan spoke of a nation that was hopeful, big-hearted, idealistic, daring, decent and fair. That was how he saw America.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
PRASAD: Yesterday afternoon, traditions dating back to the 1700s, a horse-drawn caisson pulling the casket containing Ronald Reagan through downtown D.C., a large crowd lining the route. Each time it seems the crowd saw Nancy Reagan they tried to show their support. The applauded her. At one time one man yelled, "God bless you, Nancy."
Now, this morning, people are still in line waiting to see and pass on their final respects to Ronald Reagan. Officials are telling these people that they cannot stop in front of the casket; that they've got to keep moving. They're hoping to move as many as 5,000 people past the casket throughout the day.
As for the weather, it is cooperating. Yesterday temperatures got into the 90s. Some people suffered from heat exhaustion. Officials have brought in water, but so far today we're being told that temperatures will stay in the 80s, much better weather for what will take place today - Carol.
COSTELLO: Certainly so. Bill Prasad live in D.C. this morning.
Former President George H.W. Bush, who served as Reagan's vice president and then succeeded him office, talked about Reagan with Larry King. Bush says he's relieved that President Reagan's long battle with Alzheimer's is finally over.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
GEORGE H.W. BUSH, FORMER PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES: The battle is over, the victory won. I mean, he fought this thing without a lot of cognizance. But I think everybody said, look, it's been a long, long time. It's been a terrible burden on loyal wonderful Nancy. But life goes on. And at 93, he's got so much - his life meant so much to so many people that I think it's now a celebration rather than a sadness.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
COSTELLO: We have a special report on Ronald Reagan on our Web site. You can also get a history of state funerals. It's all there for you. Just go to CNN.com.
The G-8 Summit ends today in Sea Island, Georgia, with some heads of state going home and others heading to Washington for Ronald Reagan's funeral.
CNN's Eric Philips has a live report now from Savannah.
Good morning, Eric.
ERIC PHILIPS, CNN CORRESPONDENT: Carol, good morning to you.
G-8 members will meet today with leaders from Africa to discuss plans on famine relief and research for an AIDS vaccine, as well as increased peacekeeping troops in Africa. However, Iraq and the Middle East are never far from anyone's mind, especially not after yesterday's sit down between President Bush and the interim president of Iraq.
(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)
PHILIPS (voice over): The one-on-one meeting between Sheikh Ghazi al-Yawar and President Bush appeared to be a virtual love fest.
GHAZI AL-YAWAR, IRAQI PRESIDENT-DESIGNATE: Mr. President, I would like to express to you the commitment of the Iraqi people to move toward democracy.
GEORGE W. BUSH, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES: I really never thought I'd be sitting next to an Iraqi president of a free country a year and a half ago. And here you are.
PHILIPS: Now that a U.N. Security Council resolution clearing the way for a new Iraqi government has passed unanimously, Mr. Bush is proposing increased NATO participation in the reconstruction of Iraq -- a suggestion rebuffed by French President Jacques Chirac.
PRES. JACQUES CHIRAC, FRANCE (through translator): I do not believe that it is NATO's purpose to intervene in Iraq, nor do I believe that it would be relevant, appropriate or even well-understood by people in Iraq and abroad.
PHILIPS: G-8 members held a lunch with the heads of six mid- eastern countries to discuss democratic reform there -- reforms some in the region believe will be hindered by the conflicts between Israel and Palestine.
A clash between protestors and police Wednesday, as dozens of demonstrators in Brunswick, Georgia, attempted to gain access to a bridge to Saint Simons Island, next to the summit on Sea Island. The incident was brief, and no one was arrested.
(END VIDEOTAPE)
At the close of today's meeting, President Bush will head to Washington, where he will prepare for a eulogy at tomorrow's memorial service for former President Ronald Reagan -- Carol.
COSTELLO: Eric Philips live from Savannah this morning, thank you. The G-8 Summit is wrapping up, as Eric said. And President Bush will meet with reporters later this afternoon. That will happen around 4:00 Eastern, 1:00 Pacific Time. And CNN does plan live coverage.
It is a question with no easy answer: Who decides between life and death? Two parents plead for their infant son's life. Will a state supreme court step in? And did this mother and father commit a crime? We'll have more on that story when we come back.
And later, a road trip one group of friends will never forget, even though they're barely old enough to remember the Reagan presidency. This is DAYBREAK.
(COMMERCIAL BREAK)
COSTELLO: Time for a little business buzz. Soon you may be paying more for phone service, thanks to Uncle Sam.
Carrie Lee has more live at the Nasdaq Marketsite.
Why?
CARRIE LEE, CNN FINANCIAL NEWS: Well, Carol, it's a little complicated. Let me boil this down as quickly as possible.
The Bush administration and the Federal Communications Commission say they are not going to seek Supreme Court review of a court ruling that lets regional Bell operating companies, the regional Bell phone companies, deny rivals cut-rate access to their networks.
The way it works now, the Baby Bells pretty much have to give, at below cost in some cases, the rights for AT&T, MCI, Sprint -- companies like that -- to offer local phone service through their networks. Well, that rule is going to change on June 16, and what this means is that consumers could very well have to pay higher phone bills.
Basically, they're paying these -- or they're letting AT&T and MCI come into their networks now below cost, and that's allowed companies like AT&T and MCI to offer local and long distance calling for about $49 a month.
Well, now, the bottom line, this is going to mean very well higher prices for consumers. The Baby Bells won't have to sell these lines at discounted rates, so they won't have as much pressure to offer at lower rates. There will be less competition.
Meanwhile, AT&T and MCI are going to have to pay more to come into the networks, so they're going to have to raise prices as well.
So, a little bit confusing, Carol, but bottom line, we're probably going to see higher prices in the coming months.
Now, the Baby Bells say they're not going to raise prices this year, but you can bet pricing battles are going to come out from state to state over the next couple of months. So, we'll keep an eye on this story, but bottom line, not very good news for consumers.
COSTELLO: All right, Carrie Lee reporting live from the Nasdaq Marketsite.
The Ohio Supreme Court today hears the sad case of 7-month-old Aiden Stein (ph). Without action, the comatose baby's life may end tomorrow.
Denise Strezelczyk of CNN affiliate WOIO has more from Akron.
(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)
DENISE STREZELCZYK, CNN AFFILIATE WOIO REPORTER (voice over): This is a cute little boy at the center of a very ugly court battle. Little Aiden Stein, doctors say, is a victim of shaken-baby syndrome, on life support now for close to three months, largely brain-damaged with no hope of recovery.
ELLEN KAFOREY, COURT-APPOINTED GUARDIAN: Oh, there is no improvement. He does make movements with his hands and legs. He does open his eyes. But those are just voluntary movements, consistent with just, you know, brain stem activity.
STREZELCZYK: The baby's father, Matthew Stein, says his son choked on a bottle, but Stein is the focal point of an investigation, suspected of causing his son's shaken-baby syndrome. If Aiden dies, Matthew could be charged with murder.
Attorney Ellen Kaforey, a former nurse, is little Aiden's court- appointed guardian. She has recommended Aiden be taken off life support as early as this week.
KAFOREY: We intend to proceed to withdraw the ventilator from Aiden by Friday at noon.
STREZELCZYK: Aiden Stein's parents tried to get Ellen Kaforey removed as their son's legal guardian, but the court just denied their appeal. Now, their attorney says they won't allow little Aiden to die.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: My clients have not injured Aiden in any way, and they're certainly not going to cooperate in killing him, which is what she's asking.
(END VIDEOTAPE)
COSTELLO: Again, Denise Strezelczyk of CNN affiliate WOIO. We'll keep you posted on what happens next.
Your news, money, weather and sports. It is 6:44 Eastern. Here's what's all new this morning.
In Washington, President Reagan's flag-draped casket lies in state in the Rotunda of the U.S. Capitol. Thousands are waiting in line this morning. In fact, they waited throughout the night to pay their last respects to the 40th president. In the Scott Peterson murder trial, a relative of Laci Peterson's mother testifies that Scott told him he was playing golf and not fishing the day his wife disappeared. Peterson told police he was fishing that day.
In money news, Boeing has signed an agreement with Chinese firms to supply parts for a new fuel-efficient airliner it's building. Boeing also hopes China will buy a couple of thousand of those jets.
In sports, an NFL sources tells the Associated Press that Cleveland Browns quarterback Tom Couch will be released today. What a bizarre time he's had on that team. Couch was replaced by free agent Jeff Garcia in March.
In culture, an Orange County, California, politician is suggesting John Wayne Airport be renamed for the TV show, "The OC." This story just makes me laugh, I can't help it. Chris Norbee (ph) says "The OC" airport might be more appealing than an airport named for "the Duke." Do they think that will get more young passengers flying? I just don't get it.
(WEATHER BREAK)
COSTELLO: Those are the latest headlines for you.
Bill Hemmer is in Washington this morning, Soledad O'Brien in New York. Let's check in with them to see what's coming up on "AMERICAN MORNING."
Good morning.
SOLEDAD O'BRIEN, CNN ANCHOR: Hey, Carol, good morning.
BILL HEMMER, CNN ANCHOR: Carol, good morning to you. Again, we come live from the nation's capital. Soledad, nice to see you again this morning. I'll tell you, the crowds are starting to pick up yet again. It had dropped down to several thousand people in the line behind me, but they are coming now by the thousands. At least check, right around the 30,000 mark when they began here, the observation into the Rotunda on Capitol Hill. We'll be here throughout the morning talking to countless people, their reflections as to why they came to spend time today -- Soledad.
O'BRIEN: Well, also, this morning, Bill, we're going to be talking about President Bush. He's going to be heading back to Washington, D.C., to take part in some of the memorials for Ronald Reagan. We're going to assess the G-8 Summit as it wraps up. Dana Bush -- Bash, rather, whoops, is in Georgia for us this morning to give us an assessment of how it went.
Also this morning, we're talking about the campaign. There's a new poll from the "L.A. Times." Senator Kerry is leading in some important ways. Ron Brownstein, who is our correspondent, but also with the "L.A. Times," joins us with some assessment of some of these new numbers. Very interesting information coming out of that poll. That and much, much more all ahead on this "AMERICAN MORNING." We'll see you in just a few minutes -- Carol.
COSTELLO: All right, we'll be here. Thanks, Bill and Soledad.
So many people saying goodbye to Ronald Reagan this week are barely old enough to remember when he was president.
(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: In my opinion, we'll probably not see a president as good as President Mr. Reagan during our lifetimes.
(END VIDEO CLIP)
COSTELLO: We'll hear from some of the youngest Americans paying tribute to Ronald Reagan.
(COMMERCIAL BREAK)
COSTELLO: From California to the U.S. Capitol, mourners from coast to coast are making that tearful trip to Washington to say goodbye to Ronald Reagan.
CNN's Jason Bellini brings us the story of one man's travel.
(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)
JASON BELLINI, CNN CORRESPONDENT (voice-over): Angel Rivera (ph) began his above-average road trip in Indiana.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: President Reagan is waiting.
BELLINI: He and his friends recorded a video diary of their trip to Washington. Angel (ph) was 6 years old when President Ronald Reagan left office.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: He molded conservatism as we know it today.
BELLINI: He fell in love with Reagan reading about him.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: In my opinion, we probably will not see a president as good as President Reagan during our lifetimes, and I don't think I could forgive myself if I didn't come to his funeral. And here we are somewhere in southern Pennsylvania.
BELLINI: Angel (ph) grew up in San Juan, Puerto Rico. He studies political science at Indiana University and heads the Campus College Republicans. Angel (ph) picks up two friends who decide to fly.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: I'm a poor college student.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: The flight attendant was very, very friendly.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Did you get her number?
BELLINI: The group can quote Reagan the way college students more commonly quote music lyrics.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Thou shalt never speak ill of another Republican.
BELLINI: They go to the Washington Mall, planning to see the new World War II Memorial. They happen upon the caisson that later in the day will carry Reagan's coffin.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Hi, I'm Angel (ph).
BELLINI: One of the special moments captured on their video diary is a conversation with a horse rider from the Old Guard.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: I'm pretty proud to have the chance of meting you guys.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Thank you.
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: How do you feel?
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: A little nervous, a little anxious.
BELLINI: They wait three hours in a position where they can see Nancy Reagan arrive, the loading of the coffin, and the caisson's departure.
When the coffin is gone, Angel (ph) does the sign of the cross.
(on camera): Worth the trip here?
UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Yes.
BELLINI: Jason Bellini, CNN, Washington.
(END VIDEOTAPE)
COSTELLO: So worth the trip, even though it was so very hot yesterday in Washington. The wait this morning: four hours. Even at 5:00 a.m. Eastern, it was four hours.
CHAD MYERS, CNN METEOROLOGIST: Yes. Obviously the people that are filing by this morning, you can tell they're in their work clothes from yesterday. They're still dressed from when they went to work at 7:00 yesterday.
COSTELLO: And some of them were there before work this morning, hoping to get in, but I don't think they're going to make it before they have to be in at work on time.
MYERS: Yes.
COSTELLO: But here's a live picture inside the Capitol of people filing by.
MYERS: It was difficult to watch yesterday. It was very -- it was difficult to not swallow hard and get teary-eyed when you were watching Mrs. Reagan. It was just -- I watched the whole thing, and it was -- it's still difficult to talk about it this morning.
COSTELLO: You know, she was so strong and dignified and yet frail at the same time.
MYERS: Yes.
COSTELLO: You know, she's in her 80s, too.
MYERS: Right.
COSTELLO: But when she ran her hand over the top of that flag- draped coffin, it was very moving.
MYERS: Yes. It was.
COSTELLO: Very moving.
There's a new magazine coming out, we wanted to tell you about this morning.
MYERS: A new old magazine.
COSTELLO: Yes, a new old magazine, I guess we should put it that way. "TIME" magazine -- or "Life" magazine...
MYERS: "Life."
COSTELLO: Yes, "TIME" is the publisher.
MYERS: Right.
COSTELLO: But "Life" magazine is going to be part of your paper on Friday. It's going to be like an insert. You know on Sunday you get those "USA Today" magazine inserts? Well, "Life" is going to do sort of the same thing, but on Fridays, so as not to compete.
MYERS: Right. And 50 newspapers are picking it up already, which I think is pretty amazing for the first issue for 50 of them to pick it up. A lot of them want to look at it and make sure it's good and make sure it's what they want.
COSTELLO: To make sure they can sell it.
MYERS: Well, I guess you got that.
COSTELLO: So, look for that in select newspapers across the country.
MYERS: Right. Hey, you know what? We have to give away this mug, this exact one right here.
COSTELLO: All right. The most exciting time of our show.
MYERS: Exactly. From yesterday the questions: What well-known politician's daughter has decided to run for president on a reality TV show? Name that politician. And that was obviously Dick Gephardt and his daughter Chrissie Gephardt (ph). And the second question: In a poll last year, nearly half of all Saudis said they have a favorable view of whom? And that was Osama bin Laden.
And Tom Fitzpatrick from Drexel Hill, Pennsylvania, wins yesterday's/today's mug.
COSTELLO: Oh, the cup's in the mail, Tom. Congratulations!
MYERS: Yes. And you know what? If you are a mug winner, it does take a while to actually get the mug sometimes. Some people are waiting two or three weeks, because we...
COSTELLO: We have to pack it.
MYERS: Right.
COSTELLO: That bubble wrap is hard to get.
MYERS: It sure is.
And here are the questions for today. In what nation will the Olympic torch be carried today? We talked about that about 30 minutes ago. And what pop culture icon celebrates his 70th -- 70th birthday today? We'll name the winner tomorrow.
COSTELLO: And you may win that beautiful DAYBREAK cup. Daybreak@CNN.com. Daybreak@CNN.com.
We'll be right back. You stay right there.
MYERS: I'm glad you always say that.
(COMMERCIAL BREAK)
COSTELLO: Only two birthdays today. I'm sure there are more.
It is time for our "Lightning Round."
MYERS: OK.
COSTELLO: Get this. This is a man walking up 32 flights of stairs.
MYERS: On his hands!
COSTELLO: Watch him. God, he's amazing. This is taking place in Russia. It took him 40 minutes to walk up the stairs on his hands up 32 flights of stairs.
MYERS: And he's going down.
COSTELLO: Oh, he's going down.
MYERS: Is he going back up? Did he go back up, too? Oh, that would even be worse.
COSTELLO: No, I think he just went down.
MYERS: Oh, all right.
COSTELLO: Oh, what a wimp.
Where else but Germany would a confectioner come up with a treat like this? Truffles filled with beer flavorings. A beer truffle. Want a beer truffle with some foam on the top?
MYERS: No, no.
COSTELLO: The Bavarian beer chocolates are apparently quite popular with customers, though.
MYERS: Yes, those truffles are like $1,000 a pound.
COSTELLO: Are they really?
MYERS: Yes.
COSTELLO: I wonder if they are with the beer in them. I don't know.
MYERS: Maybe they're cheaper.
COSTELLO: Don't have a cow. Susie (ph) the cow already gave birth to one calf in her first year of breeding, then twins in her second.
MYERS: Oh!
COSTELLO: Now in year three, Susie (ph) has given birth to calf triplets.
MYERS: All right.
COSTELLO: I had to get that out fast because our time is done. "AMERICAN MORNING" starts right now.
MYERS: See you tomorrow.
TO ORDER A VIDEO OF THIS TRANSCRIPT, PLEASE CALL 800-CNN-NEWS OR USE OUR SECURE ONLINE ORDER FORM LOCATED AT www.fdch.com.
