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Adventurer Continues Around the World Solo Non-Stop Flight; Chertoff Sworn in as Chief of Homeland Security

Aired March 03, 2005 - 10:00   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.


DARYN KAGAN, CNN CO-ANCHOR: Still a lot of news to get to before we get to Martha's big day.
RICK SANCHEZ, CNN CO-ANCHOR: In fact, here's what's happening right now in the news.

Two suicide bombers struck outside Iraq's foreign ministry this morning detonating their car bombs within minutes of each other. At least five Iraqi police officers were killed, seven wounded. And because of Iraq's ongoing volatility, interim Prime Minister Ayad Allawi has extended the nationwide state of emergency for another 30 days.

We're also following a story out of northern China where an explosion has killed at least 11 people including two students at a nearby school. The manager of the nearby coal mine had stored explosives in the house. Local authorities are denying reports that the grade school collapsed and killed nearly two-dozen children.

Later today in Rhode Island, federal investigators are to release their report on the deadly nightclub fire that erupted just over two years ago there. One hundred people died, more than 200 were injured in this blaze sparked by a rock band's pyrotechnics. A fire exhibit, in other words. With the cause already known, the report is intended to improve building standards and practices for future events.

And in Washington, just about a half hour ago, the nation's new Homeland Security secretary took the Oath of Office. President Bush attended the ceremony for Michael Chertoff, a former federal he nominated for this particular position.

Always good to have you back. I'm Rick Sanchez.

KAGAN: Good morning to you. I'm Daryn Kagan.

He said, "Well, let's just go for it." Those are the words from Steve Fossett to his ground crew, meaning his mission is still alive despite a fuel problem. The millionaire adventurer is attempting to become the first man to make a solo nonstop airplane flight around the world.

Our Bob Franken is in Salina, Kansas, where Fossett plans to complete his journey only a few hours from now.

Bob, good morning. BOB FRANKEN, CNN NATIONAL CORRESPONDENT: Good morning. He's been cramped in his plane and he has now hit land. Of course, any of us who have flown economy have all been cramped in planes before. But he's going to be landing, oh, in four hours or so. We're not exactly sure. But he'll be coming into Salina, Kansas, where it is one of the nation's longest runways. Also almost exactly in the middle of the United States; completing a journey that will set the record for the longest non-refueling solo flight, as you pointed out.

And he has crossed back into landfall after experiencing uncertainties about fuel. He's going to have plenty left, as a matter of fact. They figure 1900 pounds. So he won't even have to take that glide path that they had planned for. That would have started somewhere over Colorado.

Right now, if you look at the map he's over Arizona. We're told he's going to cross over New Mexico. Sounds like a reverse Route 66. Then he's going up to Utah, Colorado, and then make his landing here.

It has been a very tough journey for somebody, as you might imagine. And Steve Fossett who is one of the toughest people alive, most people think, he too, was having some physical symptoms.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

STEVE FOSSETT, GLOBALFLYER PILOT: Yes, I feel good. However, there's one half of a day when I started to get a little bit of a headache. And then immediately recognized it was from dehydration. I just drank more water and I was fine. So I've been healthy, enjoying the trip. It's a lot of work for one person, though. I have to say that.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

FRANKEN: That was a conversation he had earlier with his patron here, Sir Richard Branson, who is the chief of Virgin Atlantic Airways. A lot of work for one person. He says he's perking up now.

And if you're asking, Daryn, why somebody would do this, the best answer that I can get is why not?

KAGAN: And if you got the bucks and that's what kind of turns you on, then go ahead.

It was in this program yesterday that the announcement came on from this project that oh-oh, he might be 2600 gallons short of fuel. Is it possible, Bob, that was just a big P.R. stunt to gain attention and maybe some sympathy? And to make this look like a bigger deal than it already is?

FRANKEN: Daryn, Daryn, Daryn, your cynicism is unbecoming.

(LAUGHTER)

KAGAN: I'm just looking -- it's about hype. I'm just asking questions. That's what they pay me for. FRANKEN: And I truly can't answer that...

KAGAN: All right.

FRANKEN: ... except to say that they don't know whether it was venting of fuel, or whether there was an instrument problem, or maybe whether you're closer to the mark. But it's just something we have no answered for.

KAGAN: Well, you will be tracking there from Salina, Kansas. Bob, thank you.

SANCHEZ: Turning now to the investigation of that fatal shooting of two members of the federal judge's family. Chicago police have released sketches of two men now. They're being described as persons of interest. The two were seen near the judge's home Monday, when the bodies of her husband and her mother were found.

Now, police are looking into the possibility that a ruling by Judge Joan Lefkow may have been the actual motive for these killings, as we've discussed here. Now, in a statement to the "Chicago Sun- Times," Lefkow says, "It is not fair to go after my family. It was just cold blooded," stop quote.

A colleague of Lefkow says there should be a review of security for judges in general.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

WAYNE ANDERSON, JUDGE, U.S. DISTRICT COURT: It probably permeates the minute-by-minute, certainly hour-by-hour thoughts of everybody in this particular court family. And it'll probably to some extent the larger legal community in the Chicago area.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

SANCHEZ: The Lefkow family is preparing now for a Saturday funeral.

About 300 miles southwest of Chicago in Belleville, Illinois, police are investigating the killings of three people at a beauty salon. The bodies of the salon owner and two elderly sisters were found inside the shop yesterday. The mayor says he can't recall there ever being a triple homicide in a St. Louis suburb. Police say robbery doesn't seem to be the motive, but detectives are looking for someone that they would call a person of interest.

KAGAN: To Tennessee now where a 14-year-old boy faces a murder charge today in the shooting death of his school bus driver. Police said the shooting took place before the boy boarded the bus. Another student helped stopped the bus, as it rolled down the hill and hit a telephone pole. The investigation centers on an apparent dispute between the boy and the driver.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP) DAN ALSOBROOKS, DISTRICT ATTORNEY: There was some history between -- that I can't go into a lot of detail about. But there was some history between the bus driver and the victim in this case, and the student. There had been some disciplinary problems at that point in time, and he was apparently angry at her about that.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

KAGAN: The district attorney confirms the driver had reported the boy for using smokeless tobacco on the bus.

SANCHEZ: Just about a half hour ago, the president officially welcomed Michael Chertoff as the new Homeland Security secretary. You may have seen part of that right here on CNN. But Chertoff has already been hard at work planning a review of the mammoth agency.

CNN's Elaine Quijano has been following the story. She's at the White House. And she joins us live.

Good morning, Elaine.

ELAINE QUIJANO, CNN CORRESPONDENT (on camera): Good morning to you, Rick. President Bush says he has given Michael Chertoff an ambitious agenda and that he says that Michael Chertoff is the right person to lead the Department of Homeland Security.

Now, Mr. Chertoff has actually been on the job for a couple of weeks now but today, but today was his ceremonial swearing in. Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor and President Bush both on hand for that.

The president took the opportunity to outline what he says is progress in the war on terror, including acknowledging the work of the Homeland Security Department. The president also mentioned Osama bin Laden, saying the U.S. was keeping pressure on him.

As for Michael Chertoff and his new role, the president said his background as the former head of the Justice Department's Criminal Division is experience that will serve him well.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

GEORGE W. BUSH (R), PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES: Mike Chertoff knows we cannot afford to become complaisant. He understands that as we adapt our defenses, the terrorists will adapt their tactics in response. He understands they continue to pose a grave threat to the American people.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

QUIJANO: And that ambitious agenda for Chertoff includes taking a look at the Department of Homeland Security's 180,000 employees to examine the structures and the systems that are in place, to see what's working and what may not be working. In order to insure that all of those systems work together to ensure the country is safe -- Rick. SANCHEZ: All right. Elaine Quijano, there at the White House, we thank you for that report.

KAGAN: Still to come, soldiers in Iraq share how they really feel.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

RICHMOND SHAW, 3PC, PALACE POET: I start the day by readjusting our sites and checking out the damage that happened from mortars last night. Yes, I think the ICDC is starting to snitch.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

KAGAN: We're taking you to Gunner's Palace, where men and women on the front line express their thoughts and their fears.

SANCHEZ: Also, while the pope is battling serious health concerns, Catholic priests fight to protect their images. Still to come, making sure the Catholic Church survives scandal.

KAGAN: And later, from prison to freedom, how a prison stint could mean better business for the Domestic Diva.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

KAGAN: All right. A lot of parts of the country, the cold and snow they still say winter. But that overflowing closet might be screaming spring, as in spring-cleaning. If your closet runneth over, grab your pen and paper for today's "Home Edition" of the "Top Five Tips" with Gerri Willis.

Ger, what are the conditions of your closets?

GERRI WILLIS, CNN-FN PERSONAL FINANCE EDITOR: Well, D.K., I wonder if you have this problem, messy, cluttered closets. A lot of people do. So if you want to get a jumpstart on spring-cleaning those closets, first take inventory. Get rid of those things that you haven't worn or used in the last year. Decide what to trash, what to donate, and keep only those things that you will use every day or season.

Rarely used items and seasonal things should be stowed away in the basement, attic, or shelving system somewhere. The experts at Lowes say cleaning out can really cut down on the clutter.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

CATHERINE HALL, LOWES CREATIVE IDEAS: You start by thinking if I throw this away, then maybe I can get something new. So if you haven't worn something or if you haven't used something in over a year, there's probably somebody else that might enjoy using that. So think about donations.

When you bag all that and clean that up, get it out of the closet, you're going to pare down. And you're really going to narrow down and open up some space that's going to be -- make available for some new things.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

WILLIS: So, Daryn, it is really about being able to buy more new stuff.

KAGAN: Talking in my own terms. Old house, potentially old closets; what do you do with those?

WILLIS: Well, you want to try a flexible storage system. Most people want their bedroom closet to blend in with the design of the room. You can get storage systems in different finishes to coordinate with the decor of your room. If you have lots of suits, blouses and skirts, you can add another hanging bar to your closet to quickly double up that hanging space.

KAGAN: And then what's the best way to design my closet -- how do I even know how to design for my closet needs.

WILLIS: Well, first figure out what you have. Do you need lots of shelves for your sweaters? Maybe you're a shoe horse and you have racks and racks of shoes. There are plenty of Web sites, like closetmaid.com where you can go, design your customized closet just by entering the measurements of what you need.

Now, this way you'll know the parts you need, the cost of the purchase before you go to the store.

KAGAN: And you know, our clothes closet aren't the only place that clutter tends to collect. You also have like your pantry and your kitchen cabinets as well.

WILLIS: You bet. You can get rid of clutter in the pantry by making the most of your cupboard board space. Try placing all your canned foods and snacks on adjustable wire shelving. Make sure you get epoxy-coated shelves, which are durable and won't discolor, crack or peel. You can pick these up at any big hardware store or an organization store.

You know this weekend, 9:30 a.m. Saturday morning, "OPEN HOUSE," we'll tackle this topic and others including, selling your home on your own. It can save you thousands of dollars. We'll show you how to get it right. Remember that, Saturday morning 9:30 a.m. -- Daryn.

KAGAN: You know, there's a whole kind of spiritual element about cleaning your closets.

WILLIS: That's true.

KAGAN: Kind of symbolic of your life as well.

WILLIS: Yes. It makes you feel better. It makes you feel good. And then you can go shopping again.

KAGAN: And which also makes us feel good. Different spiritual exercise. Gerri, thank you. WILLIS: You're welcome.

SANCHEZ: Create space only to be able to fill it again. Right?

KAGAN: Works for me.

SANCHEZ: I suppose so. And the credit card companies.

KAGAN: Yes.

SANCHEZ: The pope is healing. Priests are being cautious. The state of the Catholic Church still to come on CNN LIVE TODAY. We're going to take to you Rome to take a look at how things are with Catholics.

KAGAN: And later, it's something that you don't get from the headlines. It's reality for American soldiers in Baghdad. We'll give you a taste of a controversial new documentary. It's called "Gunner's Palace," that's coming up.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

SANCHEZ: There's a story we've been following for some time. Earlier this morning, the Vatican released an official update on the recovery of Pope John Paul II. The spokesman says the 84-year-old pontiff is continually improving from last week's throat operation. The Vatican also saying it now appears likely the pope will appear at his hospital window Sunday. But no decision will be made until Saturday.

Joining us now to discuss the Vatican's update on the pope's health is Archbishop John Foley. He's in charge of the Vatican's Communication Office.

Bishop, thank you so much, Sir, for taking time to talk to us this morning. Let me read to you what we're getting on the pope's condition. They say he's showing progress, eating regularly, spending a few hours each day sitting up in an armchair. Sounds like he's doing much better.

JOHN FOLEY, ARCHBISHOP, VATICAN COMMUNICATIONS OFFICE: You took the words right out of my mouth. Also he's doing some work, too. Because he's had visits from some officials at the Vatican. The one was Cardinal Ratzinger, in charge of the Doctrinal Department of the Vatican. Met with him the other day, brought him work to do. He said -- and he reported that the pope spoke o to him in Italian and in German.

SANCHEZ: But still...

FOLEY: And so the pope is...

SANCHEZ: I'm sorry. I don't mean to interrupt. But he's still not, though, I suppose completely healed might be good words to choose. Does the church need a stronger pope, you think, for Catholics? FOLEY: Well, I think one of the functions of a pope is to lead by example. And I think the Holy Father is certainly giving a marvelous example of how to bear suffering patiently, how to remain at work even when you are ill. And how to follow doctors' instructions well, too. So I think he's giving an excellent example for the world and the work of the church is able to continue.

SANCHEZ: He's been a marvelous man and a marvelous pope. There's no doubt about that. But as we start looking for the next generation in the Catholic Church, are we looking for a Francis DeSalles? Are we looking for someone who can like bring the church back together despite some of the negative things that have happened in the past?

FOLEY: Well, when you speak about Francis DeSalles, you're speaking of one of my favorite saints. He's the patron of journalists, as you may know.

SANCHEZ: Mm-hmm.

FOLEY: And he's the one who said you can catch more flies with a spoonful of honey than with a barrel of vinegar.

SANCHEZ: And he did a remarkable...

FOLEY: But he himself was re...

SANCHEZ: He did a remarkable thing, though. I mean after the Reformation, when everything -- everyone seemed to be down on the Catholic Church because of a pope who was not exactly a wonderful human being and had done some terrible things, he was able to bring the church back together again. Is there a need for that kind of person in this generation that we're living now, among us Catholics?

FOLEY: Well, Francis DeSalles was never a pope, of course.

SANCHEZ: Right.

FOLEY: He was the Bishop of Geneva who was never able to operate in Geneva because the Calvinists had the city. He operated out of Aisne, France. He also brought back 60,000 people to the Catholic Church. So he didn't exactly rest on his oars. He was a very active man, but a very kind man a very gracious man. And I think he's had a spiritual influence that has lasted until this day. So I'm sure that there are many people, like Francis DeSalles even the College of Cardinals, and that's a very heartening sign.

SANCHEZ: I mean I don't want to use my words. Is that your thought process? Is that the thought process of many of the cardinals as they start thinking where do we go next?

FOLEY: Oh, that I don't know. I don't think they're really thinking about that. They're concerned about the health of the pope and helping him to conduct the affairs of the church as effectively as possible. There's enough time to think about the other when they ultimately have to go into conclave. SANCHEZ: Of course, and certainly no one wants to be disrespectful, although we also need to deal with the realities here. Pope John Paul II is insisting that he will carry on his mission. No pope has ever stepped down. Is there any expectation, is there any thought...

FOLEY: It's not true that -- it's not true that no pope has ever stepped down. You've had several in history. The most famous one being Pope Celestine V who resigned and became a hermit, he was later canonized a saint. And also you have...

SANCHEZ: I should have finished that. Since the 15-century, right?

FOLEY: I'm sorry. Since the 15-century.

SANCHEZ: Since the 15-century. All right. I meant to finish that, but I was trying to be as brief. But the point I suppose I'm getting at...

FOLEY: Sorry about that.

SANCHEZ: That's OK. You know a lot more about this than I do. And we're honored to have you and be able to explain this to us.

Is there any thought at all being given, Bishop, to the possibility of someone being given a titular position, that might be a hierarchical position along with the pope, or anything like that?

FOLEY: I haven't heard of anything like that. Of course, the pope can delegate any number of things and he already has done that. But there are some things that only he can do as pope. So I think that obviously those things have to be reserved to him. And so far, he's been able to do the essential things.

So I pray that he may have the strength to continue to do them. And he said that the papacy is something from which you don't resign, really. You -- did Christ put down the cross, he didn't. He carried the cross to the very end. And the Holy Father even if poor health is in a sense carrying the cross of poor health. But also giving an example of dedication to service of the universal church, and giving an example to those who are ill of how to bear their sufferings patiently.

SANCHEZ: Archbishop John Foley. Thank you, Sir. Really enjoyed it. Candid conversation. Thanks for being with us.

FOLEY: All right. Thank you very much.

KAGAN: News here in the U.S. There is a settlement in the Kobe Bryant legal battle. A closer look at the case just ahead on CNN LIVE TODAY.

SANCHEZ: Also on the front lines, a look at a new documentary that captures soldiers' in deadly missions.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

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Aired March 3, 2005 - 10:00   ET
THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.
DARYN KAGAN, CNN CO-ANCHOR: Still a lot of news to get to before we get to Martha's big day.
RICK SANCHEZ, CNN CO-ANCHOR: In fact, here's what's happening right now in the news.

Two suicide bombers struck outside Iraq's foreign ministry this morning detonating their car bombs within minutes of each other. At least five Iraqi police officers were killed, seven wounded. And because of Iraq's ongoing volatility, interim Prime Minister Ayad Allawi has extended the nationwide state of emergency for another 30 days.

We're also following a story out of northern China where an explosion has killed at least 11 people including two students at a nearby school. The manager of the nearby coal mine had stored explosives in the house. Local authorities are denying reports that the grade school collapsed and killed nearly two-dozen children.

Later today in Rhode Island, federal investigators are to release their report on the deadly nightclub fire that erupted just over two years ago there. One hundred people died, more than 200 were injured in this blaze sparked by a rock band's pyrotechnics. A fire exhibit, in other words. With the cause already known, the report is intended to improve building standards and practices for future events.

And in Washington, just about a half hour ago, the nation's new Homeland Security secretary took the Oath of Office. President Bush attended the ceremony for Michael Chertoff, a former federal he nominated for this particular position.

Always good to have you back. I'm Rick Sanchez.

KAGAN: Good morning to you. I'm Daryn Kagan.

He said, "Well, let's just go for it." Those are the words from Steve Fossett to his ground crew, meaning his mission is still alive despite a fuel problem. The millionaire adventurer is attempting to become the first man to make a solo nonstop airplane flight around the world.

Our Bob Franken is in Salina, Kansas, where Fossett plans to complete his journey only a few hours from now.

Bob, good morning. BOB FRANKEN, CNN NATIONAL CORRESPONDENT: Good morning. He's been cramped in his plane and he has now hit land. Of course, any of us who have flown economy have all been cramped in planes before. But he's going to be landing, oh, in four hours or so. We're not exactly sure. But he'll be coming into Salina, Kansas, where it is one of the nation's longest runways. Also almost exactly in the middle of the United States; completing a journey that will set the record for the longest non-refueling solo flight, as you pointed out.

And he has crossed back into landfall after experiencing uncertainties about fuel. He's going to have plenty left, as a matter of fact. They figure 1900 pounds. So he won't even have to take that glide path that they had planned for. That would have started somewhere over Colorado.

Right now, if you look at the map he's over Arizona. We're told he's going to cross over New Mexico. Sounds like a reverse Route 66. Then he's going up to Utah, Colorado, and then make his landing here.

It has been a very tough journey for somebody, as you might imagine. And Steve Fossett who is one of the toughest people alive, most people think, he too, was having some physical symptoms.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

STEVE FOSSETT, GLOBALFLYER PILOT: Yes, I feel good. However, there's one half of a day when I started to get a little bit of a headache. And then immediately recognized it was from dehydration. I just drank more water and I was fine. So I've been healthy, enjoying the trip. It's a lot of work for one person, though. I have to say that.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

FRANKEN: That was a conversation he had earlier with his patron here, Sir Richard Branson, who is the chief of Virgin Atlantic Airways. A lot of work for one person. He says he's perking up now.

And if you're asking, Daryn, why somebody would do this, the best answer that I can get is why not?

KAGAN: And if you got the bucks and that's what kind of turns you on, then go ahead.

It was in this program yesterday that the announcement came on from this project that oh-oh, he might be 2600 gallons short of fuel. Is it possible, Bob, that was just a big P.R. stunt to gain attention and maybe some sympathy? And to make this look like a bigger deal than it already is?

FRANKEN: Daryn, Daryn, Daryn, your cynicism is unbecoming.

(LAUGHTER)

KAGAN: I'm just looking -- it's about hype. I'm just asking questions. That's what they pay me for. FRANKEN: And I truly can't answer that...

KAGAN: All right.

FRANKEN: ... except to say that they don't know whether it was venting of fuel, or whether there was an instrument problem, or maybe whether you're closer to the mark. But it's just something we have no answered for.

KAGAN: Well, you will be tracking there from Salina, Kansas. Bob, thank you.

SANCHEZ: Turning now to the investigation of that fatal shooting of two members of the federal judge's family. Chicago police have released sketches of two men now. They're being described as persons of interest. The two were seen near the judge's home Monday, when the bodies of her husband and her mother were found.

Now, police are looking into the possibility that a ruling by Judge Joan Lefkow may have been the actual motive for these killings, as we've discussed here. Now, in a statement to the "Chicago Sun- Times," Lefkow says, "It is not fair to go after my family. It was just cold blooded," stop quote.

A colleague of Lefkow says there should be a review of security for judges in general.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

WAYNE ANDERSON, JUDGE, U.S. DISTRICT COURT: It probably permeates the minute-by-minute, certainly hour-by-hour thoughts of everybody in this particular court family. And it'll probably to some extent the larger legal community in the Chicago area.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

SANCHEZ: The Lefkow family is preparing now for a Saturday funeral.

About 300 miles southwest of Chicago in Belleville, Illinois, police are investigating the killings of three people at a beauty salon. The bodies of the salon owner and two elderly sisters were found inside the shop yesterday. The mayor says he can't recall there ever being a triple homicide in a St. Louis suburb. Police say robbery doesn't seem to be the motive, but detectives are looking for someone that they would call a person of interest.

KAGAN: To Tennessee now where a 14-year-old boy faces a murder charge today in the shooting death of his school bus driver. Police said the shooting took place before the boy boarded the bus. Another student helped stopped the bus, as it rolled down the hill and hit a telephone pole. The investigation centers on an apparent dispute between the boy and the driver.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP) DAN ALSOBROOKS, DISTRICT ATTORNEY: There was some history between -- that I can't go into a lot of detail about. But there was some history between the bus driver and the victim in this case, and the student. There had been some disciplinary problems at that point in time, and he was apparently angry at her about that.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

KAGAN: The district attorney confirms the driver had reported the boy for using smokeless tobacco on the bus.

SANCHEZ: Just about a half hour ago, the president officially welcomed Michael Chertoff as the new Homeland Security secretary. You may have seen part of that right here on CNN. But Chertoff has already been hard at work planning a review of the mammoth agency.

CNN's Elaine Quijano has been following the story. She's at the White House. And she joins us live.

Good morning, Elaine.

ELAINE QUIJANO, CNN CORRESPONDENT (on camera): Good morning to you, Rick. President Bush says he has given Michael Chertoff an ambitious agenda and that he says that Michael Chertoff is the right person to lead the Department of Homeland Security.

Now, Mr. Chertoff has actually been on the job for a couple of weeks now but today, but today was his ceremonial swearing in. Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor and President Bush both on hand for that.

The president took the opportunity to outline what he says is progress in the war on terror, including acknowledging the work of the Homeland Security Department. The president also mentioned Osama bin Laden, saying the U.S. was keeping pressure on him.

As for Michael Chertoff and his new role, the president said his background as the former head of the Justice Department's Criminal Division is experience that will serve him well.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

GEORGE W. BUSH (R), PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES: Mike Chertoff knows we cannot afford to become complaisant. He understands that as we adapt our defenses, the terrorists will adapt their tactics in response. He understands they continue to pose a grave threat to the American people.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

QUIJANO: And that ambitious agenda for Chertoff includes taking a look at the Department of Homeland Security's 180,000 employees to examine the structures and the systems that are in place, to see what's working and what may not be working. In order to insure that all of those systems work together to ensure the country is safe -- Rick. SANCHEZ: All right. Elaine Quijano, there at the White House, we thank you for that report.

KAGAN: Still to come, soldiers in Iraq share how they really feel.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

RICHMOND SHAW, 3PC, PALACE POET: I start the day by readjusting our sites and checking out the damage that happened from mortars last night. Yes, I think the ICDC is starting to snitch.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

KAGAN: We're taking you to Gunner's Palace, where men and women on the front line express their thoughts and their fears.

SANCHEZ: Also, while the pope is battling serious health concerns, Catholic priests fight to protect their images. Still to come, making sure the Catholic Church survives scandal.

KAGAN: And later, from prison to freedom, how a prison stint could mean better business for the Domestic Diva.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

KAGAN: All right. A lot of parts of the country, the cold and snow they still say winter. But that overflowing closet might be screaming spring, as in spring-cleaning. If your closet runneth over, grab your pen and paper for today's "Home Edition" of the "Top Five Tips" with Gerri Willis.

Ger, what are the conditions of your closets?

GERRI WILLIS, CNN-FN PERSONAL FINANCE EDITOR: Well, D.K., I wonder if you have this problem, messy, cluttered closets. A lot of people do. So if you want to get a jumpstart on spring-cleaning those closets, first take inventory. Get rid of those things that you haven't worn or used in the last year. Decide what to trash, what to donate, and keep only those things that you will use every day or season.

Rarely used items and seasonal things should be stowed away in the basement, attic, or shelving system somewhere. The experts at Lowes say cleaning out can really cut down on the clutter.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

CATHERINE HALL, LOWES CREATIVE IDEAS: You start by thinking if I throw this away, then maybe I can get something new. So if you haven't worn something or if you haven't used something in over a year, there's probably somebody else that might enjoy using that. So think about donations.

When you bag all that and clean that up, get it out of the closet, you're going to pare down. And you're really going to narrow down and open up some space that's going to be -- make available for some new things.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

WILLIS: So, Daryn, it is really about being able to buy more new stuff.

KAGAN: Talking in my own terms. Old house, potentially old closets; what do you do with those?

WILLIS: Well, you want to try a flexible storage system. Most people want their bedroom closet to blend in with the design of the room. You can get storage systems in different finishes to coordinate with the decor of your room. If you have lots of suits, blouses and skirts, you can add another hanging bar to your closet to quickly double up that hanging space.

KAGAN: And then what's the best way to design my closet -- how do I even know how to design for my closet needs.

WILLIS: Well, first figure out what you have. Do you need lots of shelves for your sweaters? Maybe you're a shoe horse and you have racks and racks of shoes. There are plenty of Web sites, like closetmaid.com where you can go, design your customized closet just by entering the measurements of what you need.

Now, this way you'll know the parts you need, the cost of the purchase before you go to the store.

KAGAN: And you know, our clothes closet aren't the only place that clutter tends to collect. You also have like your pantry and your kitchen cabinets as well.

WILLIS: You bet. You can get rid of clutter in the pantry by making the most of your cupboard board space. Try placing all your canned foods and snacks on adjustable wire shelving. Make sure you get epoxy-coated shelves, which are durable and won't discolor, crack or peel. You can pick these up at any big hardware store or an organization store.

You know this weekend, 9:30 a.m. Saturday morning, "OPEN HOUSE," we'll tackle this topic and others including, selling your home on your own. It can save you thousands of dollars. We'll show you how to get it right. Remember that, Saturday morning 9:30 a.m. -- Daryn.

KAGAN: You know, there's a whole kind of spiritual element about cleaning your closets.

WILLIS: That's true.

KAGAN: Kind of symbolic of your life as well.

WILLIS: Yes. It makes you feel better. It makes you feel good. And then you can go shopping again.

KAGAN: And which also makes us feel good. Different spiritual exercise. Gerri, thank you. WILLIS: You're welcome.

SANCHEZ: Create space only to be able to fill it again. Right?

KAGAN: Works for me.

SANCHEZ: I suppose so. And the credit card companies.

KAGAN: Yes.

SANCHEZ: The pope is healing. Priests are being cautious. The state of the Catholic Church still to come on CNN LIVE TODAY. We're going to take to you Rome to take a look at how things are with Catholics.

KAGAN: And later, it's something that you don't get from the headlines. It's reality for American soldiers in Baghdad. We'll give you a taste of a controversial new documentary. It's called "Gunner's Palace," that's coming up.

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SANCHEZ: There's a story we've been following for some time. Earlier this morning, the Vatican released an official update on the recovery of Pope John Paul II. The spokesman says the 84-year-old pontiff is continually improving from last week's throat operation. The Vatican also saying it now appears likely the pope will appear at his hospital window Sunday. But no decision will be made until Saturday.

Joining us now to discuss the Vatican's update on the pope's health is Archbishop John Foley. He's in charge of the Vatican's Communication Office.

Bishop, thank you so much, Sir, for taking time to talk to us this morning. Let me read to you what we're getting on the pope's condition. They say he's showing progress, eating regularly, spending a few hours each day sitting up in an armchair. Sounds like he's doing much better.

JOHN FOLEY, ARCHBISHOP, VATICAN COMMUNICATIONS OFFICE: You took the words right out of my mouth. Also he's doing some work, too. Because he's had visits from some officials at the Vatican. The one was Cardinal Ratzinger, in charge of the Doctrinal Department of the Vatican. Met with him the other day, brought him work to do. He said -- and he reported that the pope spoke o to him in Italian and in German.

SANCHEZ: But still...

FOLEY: And so the pope is...

SANCHEZ: I'm sorry. I don't mean to interrupt. But he's still not, though, I suppose completely healed might be good words to choose. Does the church need a stronger pope, you think, for Catholics? FOLEY: Well, I think one of the functions of a pope is to lead by example. And I think the Holy Father is certainly giving a marvelous example of how to bear suffering patiently, how to remain at work even when you are ill. And how to follow doctors' instructions well, too. So I think he's giving an excellent example for the world and the work of the church is able to continue.

SANCHEZ: He's been a marvelous man and a marvelous pope. There's no doubt about that. But as we start looking for the next generation in the Catholic Church, are we looking for a Francis DeSalles? Are we looking for someone who can like bring the church back together despite some of the negative things that have happened in the past?

FOLEY: Well, when you speak about Francis DeSalles, you're speaking of one of my favorite saints. He's the patron of journalists, as you may know.

SANCHEZ: Mm-hmm.

FOLEY: And he's the one who said you can catch more flies with a spoonful of honey than with a barrel of vinegar.

SANCHEZ: And he did a remarkable...

FOLEY: But he himself was re...

SANCHEZ: He did a remarkable thing, though. I mean after the Reformation, when everything -- everyone seemed to be down on the Catholic Church because of a pope who was not exactly a wonderful human being and had done some terrible things, he was able to bring the church back together again. Is there a need for that kind of person in this generation that we're living now, among us Catholics?

FOLEY: Well, Francis DeSalles was never a pope, of course.

SANCHEZ: Right.

FOLEY: He was the Bishop of Geneva who was never able to operate in Geneva because the Calvinists had the city. He operated out of Aisne, France. He also brought back 60,000 people to the Catholic Church. So he didn't exactly rest on his oars. He was a very active man, but a very kind man a very gracious man. And I think he's had a spiritual influence that has lasted until this day. So I'm sure that there are many people, like Francis DeSalles even the College of Cardinals, and that's a very heartening sign.

SANCHEZ: I mean I don't want to use my words. Is that your thought process? Is that the thought process of many of the cardinals as they start thinking where do we go next?

FOLEY: Oh, that I don't know. I don't think they're really thinking about that. They're concerned about the health of the pope and helping him to conduct the affairs of the church as effectively as possible. There's enough time to think about the other when they ultimately have to go into conclave. SANCHEZ: Of course, and certainly no one wants to be disrespectful, although we also need to deal with the realities here. Pope John Paul II is insisting that he will carry on his mission. No pope has ever stepped down. Is there any expectation, is there any thought...

FOLEY: It's not true that -- it's not true that no pope has ever stepped down. You've had several in history. The most famous one being Pope Celestine V who resigned and became a hermit, he was later canonized a saint. And also you have...

SANCHEZ: I should have finished that. Since the 15-century, right?

FOLEY: I'm sorry. Since the 15-century.

SANCHEZ: Since the 15-century. All right. I meant to finish that, but I was trying to be as brief. But the point I suppose I'm getting at...

FOLEY: Sorry about that.

SANCHEZ: That's OK. You know a lot more about this than I do. And we're honored to have you and be able to explain this to us.

Is there any thought at all being given, Bishop, to the possibility of someone being given a titular position, that might be a hierarchical position along with the pope, or anything like that?

FOLEY: I haven't heard of anything like that. Of course, the pope can delegate any number of things and he already has done that. But there are some things that only he can do as pope. So I think that obviously those things have to be reserved to him. And so far, he's been able to do the essential things.

So I pray that he may have the strength to continue to do them. And he said that the papacy is something from which you don't resign, really. You -- did Christ put down the cross, he didn't. He carried the cross to the very end. And the Holy Father even if poor health is in a sense carrying the cross of poor health. But also giving an example of dedication to service of the universal church, and giving an example to those who are ill of how to bear their sufferings patiently.

SANCHEZ: Archbishop John Foley. Thank you, Sir. Really enjoyed it. Candid conversation. Thanks for being with us.

FOLEY: All right. Thank you very much.

KAGAN: News here in the U.S. There is a settlement in the Kobe Bryant legal battle. A closer look at the case just ahead on CNN LIVE TODAY.

SANCHEZ: Also on the front lines, a look at a new documentary that captures soldiers' in deadly missions.

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