Return to Transcripts main page

CNN Saturday Morning News

Speculation of Cabinet Changes in President Bush's Second Term; A report on the latest fighting in Iraq

Aired November 06, 2004 - 07:00   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.


BETTY NGUYEN, CNN ANCHOR: Well, good morning.
From the CNN Center in Atlanta, this is CNN SATURDAY MORNING.

It is November 6.

7:00 a.m. in the East, 4:00 a.m. out West, very early out there.

Good morning.

I'm Betty Nguyen.

TONY HARRIS, CNN ANCHOR: And I'm Tony Harris.

Thank you for being with us.

Now in the news, U.S. war planes and artillery soften up suspected terrorist targets overnight in Fallujah, destroying dozens of homes and a warehouse. Thousands of U.S. Marines backed by Iraqi Army troops are poised to attack the insurgents controlling Fallujah. Iraq's prime minister says the window is closing for a peaceful settlement in the city.

Meanwhile, extreme violence and a heavy toll today in last month's urban battleground, Samara. At least 34 people are dead and dozens wounded this morning in a series of car bomb explosions and mortar attacks in the city north of Baghdad. We'll take you live to Baghdad for an update in one minute.

Supporters of Yasser Arafat keep vigil outside the hospital in suburban Paris where he remains in a coma. A hospital spokesman says Arafat's condition is stable. U.S. officials say the Palestinian leader is on life support. We'll have a live update from Ramallah in 30 minutes.

And it's a new space race with a big payoff. The Ansari X Prize will be officially awarded in St. Louis today to the Space Ship One team. The California team will take home the $10 million prize after successfully making two manned rockets trips into space within two weeks. The winning ship was funded by Microsoft billionaire Paul Allen.

NGUYEN: $10 million, that's not too bad.

Well, we do have a lot of ground to cover this hour. Just ahead, the Bush inner circle -- the best clues about the second term agenda can be read in the faces of the president's top advisers. We will take a closer look at who will likely stay and who will be cut loose.

Also coming up, voters this week said no way to same-sex marriage. But don't think for a moment that issue is a dead issue. We'll explain what gay and lesbian activists have planned next.

And later, why NBA now stands for netting billions annually thanks to superstars like Kobe and Shaq. CNN sports business analyst Rick Horrow takes you "Beyond The Game" into the gold mine that is modern professional basketball.

HARRIS: The dollars are staggering.

And back to our top story this Saturday morning. Another bloody weekend in Iraq. At least 34 Iraqis have been killed so far this morning in Samara. The bodies of a dozen kidnapped and executed Iraqis have been found in Latifya and there's a ring of steel around Fallujah. Thousands of U.S. Marines ready to attack.

Our senior international correspondent, Nic Robertson, joins us live from Baghdad with all the details -- good morning, Nic.

NIC ROBERTSON, CNN CORRESPONDENT: Good morning, Tony.

It does appear as if this Saturday has been set aside, if you will, by insurgents to focus on Samara. This morning at 9:30 a.m., a car bomb was driven toward the mayor's office. It detonated there, killing a number of people at that location, wounding dozens of others, almost at exactly the same time a police station in the town of Samara was targeted by insurgents. They fired three mortar rounds at the police station. That was followed up by reports of small arms fire in the area.

In that, three police officers were killed, six others wounded. About half an hour later, a coalition patrol in the town, along with Iraqi security forces, were going through the town of Samara. The Iraqi security forces identified what they saw as a suspicious potential IED. They detonated that IED. In that process, one of the Iraqi security forces was injured. Four civilians also injured in that, but no U.S. forces -- there were no U.S. forces, casualties reported in that particular incident.

It is a very bloody day in Samara and it is only a month ago that the U.S. forces and Iraqi security forces, some 3,000 U.S. troops who are in the 1st Armored Division, backed up by 2,000 Iraqi troops, went into Samara to bring stability to the town after it had had, after it had been unstable due to insurgent, essential occupation of the town.

At that time, the commander of the 1st Infantry Division said that the stability that they were bringing to Samara would be a model for Iraq. The insurgents this day seem to have targeted Samara for their own ends. Also, the 12 civilian bodies found about 30 miles south of Baghdad in Latifya, this particular town, noted coalition forces here, as a problem -- as part of that problem area in the center of Iraq, an area where often people are killed for no apparent reason. This particularly unusual, that 12 bodies, all civilians, all apparently executed, all found together -- Tony.

HARRIS: Nic, let me ask you, does it -- is it the thinking that if the U.S. Marines can go into Fallujah and recapture that city that it will make it easier for coalition forces to operate throughout the whole of Iraq?

ROBERTSON: There's certainly the feeling that if you can -- that if it's possible to regain control of Fallujah, then it will bring stability to that particular town in advance of the elections, that Fallujah is part of that area west of Baghdad, along with Ramadi, along with the whole river valley there leading into Baghdad, that has been particularly tough for coalition forces, that if you can stabilize and secure Fallujah, then you may be able to spread and work out from there.

But there's no doubt that the coalition are very aware there are another number of problem towns in the central Iraq and that cracking Fallujah is by no means the end to their problems. But it is such a significant holdout and has been, if you will, a sort of a root of a lot of the problems, the coalition needs to know that they need to start somewhere, and Fallujah really is the root that they want to grasp first here -- Tony.

HARRIS: Nic Robertson reporting live for us from Baghdad this morning.

Nic, thank you.

The United Nations will beef up its staff in Iraq, for one, helping arrange the country's elections in January. But U.N. Secretary General Kofi Annan is worried that attacks on Fallujah and other insurgent strongholds could jeopardize those elections. In a letter obtained by CNN, Annan warns the U.S., Britain and Iraq that such attacks could be very disruptive for Iraq's political transition.

NGUYEN: Democrats in the Senate are regrouping after key losses in Tuesday's election. Illinois Senator Dick Durbin says he has enough votes from his colleagues to become the new Democratic whip. Now, that's the number two leadership job. Durbin says that despite what polls seem to indicate, Democrats are in touch with voters.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

SEN. DICK DURBIN (D-IL), INTELLIGENCE COMMITTEE: We need to tell the voters that we come to these important political issues with our own spiritual values. I think they, when they hear this, they're going to be satisfied that they're dealing with people that are much like themselves.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

NGUYEN: The Democrats lost four Senate seats in Tuesday's election, including that of minority leader Tom Daschle. Now, come January, Republicans will have 55 seats to Democrats 44 seats. There is one independent.

Some high school students in Colorado found a way to have a voice in the political process. About 70 students staged an all night sit- in at the Boulder High School library demanding to speak to political leaders. The students say they're worried about a possible draft, the national debt and the environment. The principal allowed the students to stay overnight Thursday as long as they made it to class on Friday, which they did, after speaking to local leaders of both parties.

HARRIS: With any president's second term, there is usually some kind of shakeup or cabinet shuffle and speculation is already under way about who will stay and who will go in the Bush administration.

CNN's Kathleen Koch has been listening to the Washington whispers.

(BEGIN VIDEO TAPE)

GEORGE W. BUSH, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES: I'm proud of every person here.

KATHLEEN KOCH, CNN CORRESPONDENT (voice-over): The cabinet shuffle, a political dance with the president calling the steps.

BUSH: The cabinet, there will be some changes. I don't know who they will be. It's inevitable there will be changes. It happens in every administration.

KOCH: Most turnover speculation focuses on the Bush national security team.

MICHAEL WEISSKOPF, "TIME" MAGAZINE: I would expect Secretary Powell to move over very quickly; possibly Attorney General Ashcroft, who's been there for four years and had some health problems, might move out, particularly because he was a symbol for the far right.

KOCH: Word is that Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld has no plans to leave. There's talk national security adviser Condoleezza Rice may be interested in a different role in the second term, but not secretary of state.

DAVID GERGEN, FORMER PRESIDENTIAL ADVISER: The social functions that you have to do and the pomp and circumstance that goes with that job, she finds that somewhat tedious. And she really likes the Defense Department. I think the growing possibility that Condi Rice is going to stay in Washington as -- and become the first woman to become secretary of defense.

KOCH: Other possible departures, Homeland Security Secretary Tom Ridge, Commerce Secretary Donald Evans, Energy Secretary Spencer Abraham, Education Secretary Rod Paige and Transportation Secretary Norman Mineta. But Washington observers point out that with elections in Iraq in January and developments in the Israeli-Palestinian situation, some may stay on a few months longer than expected.

ALLEN LICHTMAN, PRESIDENTIAL HISTORIAN: You are not going to see sudden and abrupt change. I think some will leave early, but if there's going to be change, it's going to be gradual and piecemeal.

KOCH (on camera): Now cabinet wannabes begin jockeying for position, while those departing plan new lives, often involving more time with their families and more lucrative private sector jobs.

Kathleen Koch, CNN, Washington.

(END VIDEO TAPE)

NGUYEN: Kofer Black, the State Department's anti-terrorism chief, is the first major Bush administration official to resign. The State Department says Black revealed his plans weeks before the presidential election. After a nearly 30 year government career, Black says it is time to take a breather and explore new opportunities.

Meanwhile, though, a key spot is filled in the CIA. An undercover officer known only as Dusty as been appointed executive director. The 22-year CIA veteran will be responsible for day to day operations.

HARRIS: Now our e-mail Question of the Day. Can Democrats and Republicans work together for the next four years? E-mail us now -- we love your e-mails -- at wam@cnn.com, and we'll read some of your responses throughout the morning.

NGUYEN: All right, everybody, get a mirror and smile. Do you like what you see? Well, if not, there is plenty of help to get your teeth whiter. Just ahead, we'll tell you how far is too far to go for that bright smile.

But first...

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

JOE O'HARA: If people really understood really what is involved in a gay relationship, what we have, I mean, we're not evil individuals.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

HARRIS: More and more American communities are banning gay marriage. We'll see what's next for same sex couples.

NGUYEN: And on the issue of gay marriage, the controversy over it could be one of the reasons the Democrats lost this election. Now here's a little perspective from the editorial cartoonist Rob Rogers at the "Pittsburgh Post Gazette."

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

HARRIS: It was July of last year an elderly man apparently loses control of his car, killing 10 people, injuring more than 60 others. Should he go to prison? The question for today's legal panel, next hour on CNN SATURDAY MORNING, at 8:00 a.m. Eastern.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

HARRIS: And stories across America now.

In California, registered nurses are registering their complaints with Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. At issue, a 4-year-old law that calls for additional nurses in hospital medical and surgical units. Governor Schwarzenegger's administration says that would be too expensive and has delayed implementation of the law until 2008.

In Washington State, take a look at this, an icy situation is creating some cold, hard questions. Where did this block of ice come from? The chunk smashed through the roof of a home in Kenten, landed on the bed of an 8-year-old girl. Some think it could be from ice built up on the wing of an airplane. The FAA is investigating.

And this man is in jeopardy of becoming a game show legend. Ken Jennings has won more than $2 million, the biggest game show haul ever.

NGUYEN: Wow!

HARRIS: He's won 67 consecutive shows so far, with no apparent end in sight. And have you seen it yet? "The Incredibles" is already stirring up an Oscar buzz.

NGUYEN: There we go.

HARRIS: Find out of all the talk is true. In a few minutes, we'll preview the new openings on the big screen.

NGUYEN: It sounds like a funny movie.

All right, well, let's talk about some other news.

New gay marriage bans and stronger defense of gay marriage acts? Not in Canada. America's neighbor to the north is going the opposite way on the hot button issue, deciding in favor of same-sex marriage. Just yesterday, a Saskatchewan court ruled to allow gay marriage. That makes the province the seventh jurisdiction in Canada to allow same-sex marriage.

Meanwhile, the Canadian Supreme Court is evaluating a federal law draft that could make gay marriage legal across the country.

And while some courts in Canada are giving gay marriages the green light, here in the U.S., many pondering the proposals are seeing red.

Our Tom Foreman explains.

(BEGIN VIDEO TAPE)

TOM FOREMAN, CNN CORRESPONDENT (voice-over): In a quiet neighborhood just outside of Washington, D.C., Joe O'Hara and Hoai Huynh have been together for four years. They've often thought about marriage, but after Tuesday's vote, they aren't sure what to think anymore.

O'HARA: If people really understood really what is involved in a gay relationship, what we have, I mean we're not evil individuals.

HOAI HUYNH: I think if you are lucky enough to find somebody that you love and that you can you want to marry, I think that's something that should not be -- that should be celebrated and not to be, you know, made to feel like we're kind of second-class people.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: I now pronounce you spouses for life.

FOREMAN: The gay community was euphoric earlier this year when a Massachusetts court opened the door to gay marriages. Since then, state governments, courts and voters have slammed it shut everywhere but Massachusetts. On Tuesday, 11 states banned gay marriage outright and conservatives say gay activists can blame themselves.

DAVID KEENE, AMERICAN CONSERVATIVE UNION: We live in a tolerant society. But the problem is that we are not a people who take kindly to people flaunting and demanding that we not just tolerate their activities, but that we sort of praise it and accept it and applaud it.

FOREMAN: Gay rights activists continue to believe the courts are their best hope for getting what voters do not want them to have, and at least one of the new bans is already being challenged. The Gay and Lesbian Task Force insists eventually this issue will reach the Supreme Court.

MATT FOREMAN, GAY AND LESBIAN TASK FORCE: Our concern, of course, is that when that case comes to the U.S. Supreme Court that it not be dominated by right-wing ideologues, which the president has promised to appoint to the court.

FOREMAN: Their opponents do not intend to wait.

KEENE: Unless the courts back off, it is going to require a constitutional amendment and we will support his effort to get one passed.

(on camera): You know this is going to be a very long uphill battle at this point.

O'HARA: Oh, yes. There is a just huge lack of understanding.

FOREMAN (voice-over): Some gays accept that full marriage rights may never be won. But others say the latest setbacks are temporary and an incentive to keep fighting.

Tom Foreman, CNN, Washington.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

NGUYEN: Well, Yasser Arafat is clinging to life today while Palestinians plan for life without their long time leader. Details in a live report that's ahead on CNN SATURDAY MORNING. HARRIS: And always together, gone together. An emotional story of two best friends who never returned from a mission.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

NGUYEN: Experts in the field of super computing. All right, who am I kidding? Some might call them computer nerds. Well, they are gathering in Pittsburgh this weekend for a big time conference.

Good morning, Pittsburgh. Look at it as the sun is coming up.

So, what kind of weather should you expect there? Rob Marciano is doing some super computing himself and he'll have the forecast in just a minute.

But first, if you need a post-election break, how about an escape to the movie theater.

HARRIS: Right.

NGUYEN: Here's a preview of what's opening this week.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP FROM "ALFIE," COURTESY PARAMOUNT PICTURES)

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Oh, I don't deserve you.

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Yes, that's probably true. Too bad I love you.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Thanks, baby.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

NGUYEN: That's not exactly what she wanted to hear. Yes. All right, a British playboy in New York City leads a carefree lifestyle, obviously, until he comes face to face with his own mortality and faces down the loneliness of his life. In this remake of Lewis Gilbert's 1966 film, Jude Law is in the title role. The "Chicago Tribune" calls "Alfie" "utterly satisfying."

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP FROM "THE INCREDIBLES," COURTESY DISNEY/PIXAR)

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Hey, what's that? Where'd you get that, mom?

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: You had a cool outfit. Hey, look for us. We all need cool outfits. Haha!

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Dash, you come back here this moment.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

NGUYEN: Look at the arms on her! Whoa. A family of former superheroes has been living as mere mortals in the suburbs for 15 years. But Mr. Incredible is itching for some action and finds a top secret assignment on a remote island. "The Incredibles" might hit it big with kids and adults alike. The "Hollywood Reporter" calls it red hot and very funny. I've seen some of the clips from this thing. It looks hilarious.

HARRIS: Well, that's a thing we have to see. I mean I guess that's the movie.

NGUYEN: "The Incredibles." Well, you've got kids. You have reason to go see it.

HARRIS: And apparently it's OK for us to go see, too. So field trip.

NGUYEN: A field trip.

HARRIS: Just a thought.

ROB MARCIANO, CNN METEOROLOGIST: That seems to be a hot thing, though, right?

HARRIS: Yes.

MARCIANO: Kind of cartoon puppet movies that appeal to kids and adults.

HARRIS: Yes.

NGUYEN: And adults, exactly.

HARRIS: Yes.

MARCIANO: But the weather this weekend may not be conducive to the matinees and things like that.

NGUYEN: It wouldn't? It's kind of cold here.

MARCIANO: Well, but it's nice out.

HARRIS: Just to get outside and enjoy yourself. Right. Right.

MARCIANO: Yes, I mean, a lot of folks are going to be experiencing some bright sunshine and you know...

NGUYEN: A lot of folks, just not us.

MARCIANO: Oh, it'll be here.

HARRIS: Good to see you, Rob.

MARCIANO: Hey, Tony.

HARRIS: Good morning.

MARCIANO: Buddy, you know, half this glass is empty. Come on.

NGUYEN: I came in with a coat on this morning facing, what, 30 degree temperatures that they were talking about? MARCIANO: It's not quite that cold. But it's, you know, it's chilly.

NGUYEN: I'm from Texas. We don't like it cold.

MARCIANO: I know. OK, put a sweater on.

NGUYEN: All right, I have a sweater on.

MARCIANO: Tony, keep her warm here in the next 30 seconds or so.

HARRIS: Whatever I need to do.

NGUYEN: Whatever I need.

(WEATHER REPORT)

HARRIS: Well, big games, big names, really big dough. Wait until you hear what the corporations are paying for a commercial spot during the Shaq v. Kobe showdown. We'll take you "Beyond The Game" in about 20 minutes.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

JESSICA NEFF, TEETH WHITENING "JUNKIE": I've tried the tray and gel systems over the counter. I've tried the tray and gel systems in office. I've done the Rembrandt gel and toothpaste. I've done the Crest white strips. I've just tried the new Oral B white strips and the paint on brush that you use.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

NGUYEN: What hasn't she tried? Pearly white or translucent blue, the color of your teeth is in your hands. Dr. Sanjay Gupta will tell you how to combine dental beauty with dental health. That's a little bit later this hour on CNN SATURDAY MORNING.

(BEGIN VIDEO TAPE)

HOLLY FIRFER, CNN CORRESPONDENT (voice-over): Contrary to popular belief, a new study says smoking low tar cigarettes, commonly called light or ultra light, does not lower your risk of lung cancer because low tar smokers tend to inhale more deeply and hold it longer than those who smoke regular cigarettes. Another study published in the "American Journal of Health Behavior," says smoking may be mind over matter. If you define yourself as a non-smoker it may be easier to become one.

Women are about 20 percent less likely than men to quit smoking and stick with it for more than six months. Researchers say lack of confidence in succeeding could be a factor.

Holly Firfer, CNN, Atlanta.

(END VIDEO TAPE)

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

HARRIS: Questions about the health of Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat.

Welcome back, everyone.

I'm Tony Harris.

NGUYEN: And I'm Betty Nguyen.

We have a live update on Arafat's condition in just a minute.

But first, here's a look at the headlines this morning.

New attacks in Iraq this morning. Twenty U.S. Marines have been wounded in an attack on their convoy. It happened near Ramadi, which is west of Baghdad. And north of Baghdad, in the city of Samara, a string of attacks killed at least 34 people and wounded dozens more. Insurgents used car bombs and mortars.

Explosions and gunfire this morning in Fallujah. U.S. warplanes are again pounding targets in and around the rebel held Iraqi city. Meantime, U.S. tanks have been in action in northeastern Fallujah. The attacks are laying the groundwork for what is expected to be a major offensive by U.S. and Iraqi forces.

Now to California. Taking a break, that is what the jury is doing this weekend in Scott Peterson's murder trial. Jurors wrapped up a third day of deliberations Friday without reaching a verdict. Court TV says the jury has asked to inspect Peterson's boat. Prosecutors say he used it to dump the body of his pregnant wife, Laci.

HARRIS: Reports are all over the map. U.S. officials say Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat is in a coma and on life support. A spokesman for the hospital near Paris says his condition is stable. But there is much talk about working out burial arrangements.

Michael Holmes is in Ramallah, where Arafat has spent the last two years, and he is here now to help us sort out all the facts -- good morning, Michael.

MICHAEL HOLMES, CNN CORRESPONDENT: Hi to you, Tony.

Yes, so many questions, so few answers. What we're hearing about Yasser Arafat's medical condition is that he is actually better today. He is described by various contacts of ours as being stable. Two of them used the phrase that he is not in any immediate danger of dying.

Now, that won't stop the vigil outside that hospital. He's obviously still very ill, however. Doctors still carrying out a battery of tests. We're told that they still don't even know for sure what it is that ails him.

Now, in terms of what's happening on the ground here in the Palestinian territories, there has been a slew of meetings going on. In fact, a representative of the State Department meeting with the Palestinian prime minister, Ahmed Qureia, a little earlier today, basically to find out what plans were in place were the Palestinian leader to die, particularly not so much in terms of succession, but in terms of security on the ground. Also discussions behind-the-scenes on where he would be buried. Those discussions among Palestinians and also between Palestinians and Israelis.

The Israelis do not want him buried in Jerusalem. That's exactly where Palestinians and Arafat himself would like to be buried. So there's still a lot of work to be done on that.

Ahmed Qureia headed off to Gaza about two or three hours ago. He's gone there to meet with all of the factions in that strip of land, including Fatah, Hamas, Islamic Jihad, to try to make sure that if the worst happens, from the Palestinian point of view, and Yasser Arafat does die, that there will be security on the ground, that things don't blow up, that a power vacuum doesn't lead to an on the ground power struggle, which is a worse case scenario.

So what's happening now is that the Palestinian Authority is having a meeting, the executive committee, right now, behind me, as we speak, at the Palestinian Authority headquarters. They're involved in the day to day running of affairs. They're very quick to point out that they are not doing Yasser Arafat's job. They're merely filling in while he is incapacitated. No one here wants to jump on the bandwagon, or, as one person put it to us, show disrespect of the Palestinian leader by trying to jump the gun, as it were, and act like he's already gone.

They say they hope he comes back -- Tony.

HARRIS: Michael Holmes reporting live from Ramallah.

Michael, thank you -- Betty.

NGUYEN: Now to our "Terror Watch," where we update you on the week's major developments in the war on terror. Lawyers for Zacarias Moussaoui want delays in court proceedings against him. The lawyers say all proceedings should there postponed while pretrial issues are being appealed. Moussaoui, the only person accused so far in connection with the 9/11 attacks, is charged with terrorism conspiracy.

Dutch politicians are hiring bodyguards and promising a crackdown following the killing of a filmmaker who has been critical of Islamic fundamentalists. A note pinned with a knife to the body of Theo Van Gogh threatened political leaders. A Dutch Moroccan man has been charged in the Van Gogh killing, and six others, labeled Islamic radicals by prosecutors, will be charged with conspiracy.

The State Department has warned Americans in Uzbekistan that terror attacks on U.S. interests there could be imminent. An official says the threat is from am extremist group called the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan. Americans are urged to use extreme caution. Avoid large crowds and places where Westerners gather.

HARRIS: Turning now to the war in Iraq and the story of two soldiers and friends who were virtually inseparable.

Jared Hubbard and Jeremiah Baro grew up together, always looked out for each other, and in a tragic end to their friendship, the two recently met the same fate together.

Amy Allen of affiliate KGPE has their story.

(BEGIN VIDEO TAPE)

AMY ALLEN, KGPE CORRESPONDENT (voice-over): They were best friends at Buchanan High School, on the wrestling team and then joined the Marines after graduation on the condition they would serve side by side. Now their families face unthinkable grief after an explosion killed Jeremiah Baro and Jared Hubbard in Iraq.

MIKE BARO, RELATIVE: This was their second tour in Iraq. I know they were both there together. So -- and I just knew that they were like the best of friends, you know, and a lot of people liked them.

ALLEN: Baro's family say the pair were stationed near Ramadi, an area marked by fighting in recent weeks. Baro and Hubbard also served in 2002, fighting during the initial stages of the war, and then bravely volunteered to go again.

Through his pain, Baro's father said his son died doing what he believed in.

(on camera): You still support what they're doing?

BURT BARO, FATHER: Oh, yes, more than ever. I want them to finish the job.

ALLEN: As the family turns to one another for support, they will remember Jeremiah Baro not just as a brave Marine, but as a loving and exceptional young man.

M. BARO: He was just always just full of energy and he wanted to make everybody smile. That's what I want everybody to know about.

(END VIDEO TAPE)

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

NGUYEN: There's no magic diet involved and you can forget about those weight loss pills. But it is a way to lose pounds that has 300,000 people on the move. So what's their secret? Well, tune in to CNN SATURDAY MORNING at 9:00 a.m. Eastern to find out.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

NGUYEN: All right, if you didn't have a chance to keep up with the news during the week, that is what we are here for. Time now to "Rewind," the major stories you may have missed. Actually, it was pretty hard to miss this one.

HARRIS: Yes. NGUYEN: Election Day, 2004 -- 51 percent of Americans voted to keep President Bush in the White House for another term. The president says he now has a mandate. Democrats conceded the next day.

Meanwhile, another election comes to an end. Hamid Karzai formally accepts the presidency of Afghanistan. The joint U.N.-Afghan board proclaimed his victory in the October 9 popular vote. Karzai promised to keep drug money out of the government.

And on Friday, an upbeat jobs report for the month of October triggers a rally on Wall Street. The number of newly created jobs is the best in seven months, but unemployment rate edged up 5.5 percent. The market, however, finished the week with three straight days of gains. Investors like that.

Well, tomorrow, we will fast forward to the week ahead and tell you which stories will grab the spotlight.

HARRIS: So, how far would you go for a sparkling smile? For some people, getting one has turned into an addiction.

CNN's senior medical correspondent Dr. Sanjay Gupta has more.

(BEGIN VIDEO TAPE)

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP FROM COMMERCIAL)

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Whiter teeth after just three days, full results in seven.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

DR. SANJAY GUPTA, CNN MEDICAL CORRESPONDENT (voice-over): TV commercials and magazine ads promise sparkling white smiles. And who doesn't want that? But for some, teeth whitening has become an obsession.

NEFF: I've tried the tray and gel systems over the counter. I've tried the tray and gel systems in office. I've done the Rembrandt gel and toothpaste. I've done the Crest White Strips. I've just tried the new Oral B White Strips and the paint on brush that you use.

GUPTA: And fueling Jessica's fascination with teeth whitening, shows like "The Swan" and "Extreme Makeover," and, of course, the desire to make a dazzling first impression. She's part after growing numbers of consumers referred to as teeth whitening junkies, people who excessively bleach.

DR. JONATHAN LEVINE, AESTHETIC DENTIST: The manufacturer says use it for two weeks, morning and night, twice a day, or 10 days every day. That doesn't mean doubling up on it and use it for three months.

GUPTA: Once a treatment that was only administered by dentists, cheap and easy at-home products have transformed teeth whitening into a relatively safe and effective beauty regimen for millions of Americans.

(on camera): But abusing these products might be harmful, causing gum irritation, over sensitivity and, in some cases, irreversible damage.

LEVINE: You're breaking down the structural integrity of the tooth. These people will be prone to fractures, and they're going to need some type of long-term restorations to restore the tooth that the whitening broke down from the inside.

GUPTA (voice-over): Ironically, excessive bleaching can turn pearly whites into an unnatural translucent blue. Some simple guidelines can help to avoid this kind of permanent damage from at- home whitening. Follow the directions, especially length and frequency of use. Use concentrations lower than 7 percent hydrogen peroxide. Look for hydrogen peroxide instead of carbamide peroxide ingredients. Steer clear of online products, which are mainly unregulated by the FDA. And, of course, talk to your dentist before starting any whitening regimen.

As far as Jessica goes, she is still obsessed with white teeth, but she does check with her dentist regularly, and together they keep that smile sparkling.

Dr. Sanjay Gupta, CNN, Atlanta.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

NGUYEN: I think the key here is to follow directions. I've tried the, you know, trays, you know, the teeth whitening?

HARRIS: Yes? Really?

NGUYEN: I didn't do it exactly right. It turned my gums white.

HARRIS: That's the thing, the sensitivity with the gums...

NGUYEN: It can be a problem.

HARRIS: I'm just trying to keep my teeth in my head with the cavities in there.

NGUYEN: That's a whole another issue, Tony.

HARRIS: That's a whole another issue. Doctor, help me, please.

NGUYEN: Exactly. Dr. Sanjay, we need some help here.

All right, three pointers, free throws, slam dunks -- the NBA is back on the court and the fans are back in the seats. They broke an NBA record for attendance last year. Can the league generate that same excitement this year? Well, there's only one man to ask. Who knows more about the business of sports than Rick Horrow?

HARRIS: Hey, come on, Rick.

NGUYEN: Oh, he's on the phone with his agent, of course.

HARRIS: He's big timing us. Look at him, he's big timing us.

NGUYEN: Trying to score a deal.

Well, he takes us "Beyond The Game" right here on CNN SATURDAY MORNING.

Hey, Rick.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

NGUYEN: Well, good morning to the city that never sleeps. Here's a beautiful live picture of New York City.

Are you a Whoopi Goldberg fan? Well, then head to Broadway for the first preview of her show, "Whoopi: The 20th Anniversary." The show opens November 17. I like that music.

We'll have the weather forecast for you, New York, in about 10 minutes.

In the meantime, we're going to check our top stories this morning.

There's been a deadly string of attacks in the Iraqi city of Samara, which is about 60 miles north of Baghdad. Two car bombings and a mortar attack have killed at least 34 people. Dozens more are wounded.

In Afghanistan, the fate of three United Nations workers remains in the balance. The insurgents who kidnapped them had threatened to kill them, but now there are unconfirmed reports the militants have started negotiating.

Also in Iraq, 20 U.S. Marines have been wounded in an attack on their convoy. It happened near the town of Ramadi, which is west of Baghdad. The area has been an insurgent stronghold.

And don't forget our e-mail question this morning. Can the two parties work together the next four years? Tell us what you think. We're at wam@cnn.com. We'll be reading your replies in just a few minutes.

HARRIS: All right, let's do it. A $70,000 price tag for a commercial during a regular season basketball game featuring a showdown between two former teammates? Possible evidence that the basketball business is doing quite well, thank you.

Last year, the NBA set an attendance record with nearly 22 million people at the games and the league is in the middle of a $4.6 billion network deal. The first games tipped off Tuesday night, a signal that it's time to take you "Beyond The Game" to follow the bouncing ball all the way to the bank.

Our point guard is the author of "When the Game Is On the Line." He is a CNN analyst and our own Saturday morning superstar, Rick Horrow -- good morning, Rick.

Are you off the phone call?

RICK HORROW, CNN SPORTS BUSINESS ANALYST: Yes, I just finished.

OK, superstar, we've been doing this like three, four months.

HARRIS: Yes.

HORROW: And you finally got it.

HARRIS: Oh, is that it?

HORROW: I appreciate that. Thanks a lot. Superstar. That's cool.

HARRIS: You want that one to stick?

HORROW: That's sticking.

HARRIS: OK.

HORROW: That is, with a capital S.

HARRIS: Well, help me with this one superstar.

HORROW: Yes?

HARRIS: Seventy thousand for one commercial in one basketball game? What the heck is going on here?

HORROW: Well, here's the answer, and you said it, that $4.6 billion TV deal. And frankly the NBA, some say, sold out to cable. But David Stern, the commissioner, said, just like we all understand it, it's a cable TV world for you, thank god, right? The point is that, for example, "Mash" was viewed by twice as many viewers in their final episode than "Friends" final episode was just a year ago. That's evidence.

What do they do? Promote, promote, promote.

The teams that are on the most with the NBA season this year are, not surprisingly, for example, The Heat, Shaquille O'Neal; the Lakers, Kobe Bryant; the Timberwolves, Kevin Garnett; the Cleveland Cavaliers, Lebron James; and, of course, Yao Ming and his reach to China.

The bottom line, Tony, is this is not a Michael Jordan league anymore. They're promoting the superstars.

HARRIS: Something tells me that $70,000 for one commercial in one game is probably the game, the Christmas Day game with Shaq and Kobe?

HORROW: That's it. Tune in your TV sets right now. Line up in front of those stores. Order your turkey. Tell your non-basketball fans how you want the game to start at a certain time and the turkey to start at a certain time. That's when the ratings are going to start around NBA season.

HARRIS: OK, players salaries are up almost, what, 400 percent in 10 years.

How can the teams afford all of this?

HORROW: Well, they can because there is a structure to keep the superstars in the cities and pay for them. Kevin Garnett, by the way, as you know, is making nearly $28 million a year.

HARRIS: Yes.

HORROW: Shaq, $27 million or so; Rasheed Wallace, with the champion Pistons, about $16 million or $17 million. It's the salary cap, luxury tax, revenue sharing, three legged stool that helped the NFL and the NBA is really significant as far as that's concerned.

Here's where the rubber hits the road, the franchise values. Twenty years ago, when David Stern started as commissioner, teams were bought and sold at about $15 million. Now, the Bobcats and Bob Johnson started in Charlotte this last year.

HARRIS: Yes?

HORROW: Price? $300 million.

HARRIS: Wow!

HORROW: That's a significant return on investment.

HARRIS: OK, so the teams are making money, paying their players more.

How much of that revenue is actually coming from the fans?

HORROW: Well, a lot of it. And one of the problems, of course, is the average ticket price keeps going up. In '94, the ticket price was pretty low, $27 a game, you know, compared to now $45, $46. And the NBA continues, though, to bring the fans in, 22 million record attendance last year. There are still some challenges.

Basketball participation is down about 20 percent, even though you may not care. But I'm playing ball tomorrow. And the bottom line is they have the kids that need to continue to strengthen their support for the game.

The NBA tag line, I love the game, maybe they don't love it as much now, but a lot of people are coming back to heavy like.

HARRIS: OK, heavy like.

All right, Rick, before we let you go, how about your fair ball of the week?

HORROW: Hey, quick, democracy in action, you know, not only was there a presidential election, but there were seven referendums on stadium stuff this last week. And the Cowboys were the big winner with a billion dollar construction. There was also a downtown arena in Wichita and a soccer stadium in Colorado Springs.

There were some defeats, but the bottom line is tax money is being used for public facilities for sports and it is democracy in action.

HARRIS: And how about the foul ball?

HORROW: Well, the National Hockey League. You know, they just canceled the All Star Game in Atlanta.

HARRIS: The All Star Game, yes.

HORROW: And they're a $100 million economic impact and maybe 1,300 games all over the North America. A poll says at best 80 percent of the Canadians who were polled have better things to do. And if they don't watch it, the $2.5 billion revenues a year may go away and instead of watching hockey in the winter, we may be watching skiing and speed skating as the only winter sports we've got.

HARRIS: Ouch! Ouch! Here's our Saturday morning superstar, Rick Horrow.

Nothing but net.

Good to see you, Rick.

Take care.

HORROW: Hey, see you next week, man.

HARRIS: OK, man.

Take care -- Betty.

NGUYEN: He likes that superstar name. All right, it'll stick.

Well, one minute you're looking at a calm, expansive snow and ice and the next, check it out. Kaboom! You'll definitely want to see that again, plus other remarkable video from the past week. Our "Wows of the Week" when CNN SATURDAY MORNING returns.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

HARRIS: OK, today's "Wows of the Week" takes us to Portland, Oregon. It's a bit early for Christmas, but that didn't stop an 18- year-old from trying to be a little like Santa Claus. The homeowner came home to discover the alleged burglar stuck inside the chimney. Firefighters finally got him out. Now he's stuck in jail.

In the capital of Taiwan, a man shouting "Jesus will save you!" inexplicably climbed into the lion exhibit at the zoo. The big cats were not impressed. Look at this. The man suffered a few bites before zookeepers subdued the cats and got him out. Look how calm he is. And they say the lions had just been fed, which probably saved him from a fatal mauling.

And in the land of fire and ice, a spectacular volcanic eruption beneath Iceland's largest glacier. Airliners had to be diverted around the gigantic plume of black ash. Seismologists say the volcano quieted down immediately afterward.

NGUYEN: Boy, those are some amazing pictures.

Well, we want to get -- let's see, we want to get a look at the weather this morning. No volcanic activity anywhere on the West Coast.

HARRIS: No, no.

NGUYEN: Mount Saint Helens...

HARRIS: Or in most of the nation.

MARCIANO: No. That volcano -- that thing makes Saint Helens look like small potatoes.

HARRIS: It really did.

NGUYEN: Oh, yes.

MARCIANO: And nice work on the line video there.

HARRIS: Yes.

MARCIANO: That's crazy.

(WEATHER REPORT)

HARRIS: Hey, let's get to our e-mail Question of the Day and a couple of your responses. We wanted to know from you if you think the Republicans and Democrats will be able to work it out over the next four years.

NGUYEN: Nadine in Massachusetts writes: "No. We have a stalemate."

HARRIS: And this one from John from Newport Ritchie, Florida: "Now I know CNN has to be kidding."

NGUYEN: Well, we're not kidding. That's our e-mail Question of the Day. Send us your thoughts.

The next hour of CNN SATURDAY MORNING begins right now.

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 November 6, 2004 - 07:00   ET
THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.
BETTY NGUYEN, CNN ANCHOR: Well, good morning.
From the CNN Center in Atlanta, this is CNN SATURDAY MORNING.

It is November 6.

7:00 a.m. in the East, 4:00 a.m. out West, very early out there.

Good morning.

I'm Betty Nguyen.

TONY HARRIS, CNN ANCHOR: And I'm Tony Harris.

Thank you for being with us.

Now in the news, U.S. war planes and artillery soften up suspected terrorist targets overnight in Fallujah, destroying dozens of homes and a warehouse. Thousands of U.S. Marines backed by Iraqi Army troops are poised to attack the insurgents controlling Fallujah. Iraq's prime minister says the window is closing for a peaceful settlement in the city.

Meanwhile, extreme violence and a heavy toll today in last month's urban battleground, Samara. At least 34 people are dead and dozens wounded this morning in a series of car bomb explosions and mortar attacks in the city north of Baghdad. We'll take you live to Baghdad for an update in one minute.

Supporters of Yasser Arafat keep vigil outside the hospital in suburban Paris where he remains in a coma. A hospital spokesman says Arafat's condition is stable. U.S. officials say the Palestinian leader is on life support. We'll have a live update from Ramallah in 30 minutes.

And it's a new space race with a big payoff. The Ansari X Prize will be officially awarded in St. Louis today to the Space Ship One team. The California team will take home the $10 million prize after successfully making two manned rockets trips into space within two weeks. The winning ship was funded by Microsoft billionaire Paul Allen.

NGUYEN: $10 million, that's not too bad.

Well, we do have a lot of ground to cover this hour. Just ahead, the Bush inner circle -- the best clues about the second term agenda can be read in the faces of the president's top advisers. We will take a closer look at who will likely stay and who will be cut loose.

Also coming up, voters this week said no way to same-sex marriage. But don't think for a moment that issue is a dead issue. We'll explain what gay and lesbian activists have planned next.

And later, why NBA now stands for netting billions annually thanks to superstars like Kobe and Shaq. CNN sports business analyst Rick Horrow takes you "Beyond The Game" into the gold mine that is modern professional basketball.

HARRIS: The dollars are staggering.

And back to our top story this Saturday morning. Another bloody weekend in Iraq. At least 34 Iraqis have been killed so far this morning in Samara. The bodies of a dozen kidnapped and executed Iraqis have been found in Latifya and there's a ring of steel around Fallujah. Thousands of U.S. Marines ready to attack.

Our senior international correspondent, Nic Robertson, joins us live from Baghdad with all the details -- good morning, Nic.

NIC ROBERTSON, CNN CORRESPONDENT: Good morning, Tony.

It does appear as if this Saturday has been set aside, if you will, by insurgents to focus on Samara. This morning at 9:30 a.m., a car bomb was driven toward the mayor's office. It detonated there, killing a number of people at that location, wounding dozens of others, almost at exactly the same time a police station in the town of Samara was targeted by insurgents. They fired three mortar rounds at the police station. That was followed up by reports of small arms fire in the area.

In that, three police officers were killed, six others wounded. About half an hour later, a coalition patrol in the town, along with Iraqi security forces, were going through the town of Samara. The Iraqi security forces identified what they saw as a suspicious potential IED. They detonated that IED. In that process, one of the Iraqi security forces was injured. Four civilians also injured in that, but no U.S. forces -- there were no U.S. forces, casualties reported in that particular incident.

It is a very bloody day in Samara and it is only a month ago that the U.S. forces and Iraqi security forces, some 3,000 U.S. troops who are in the 1st Armored Division, backed up by 2,000 Iraqi troops, went into Samara to bring stability to the town after it had had, after it had been unstable due to insurgent, essential occupation of the town.

At that time, the commander of the 1st Infantry Division said that the stability that they were bringing to Samara would be a model for Iraq. The insurgents this day seem to have targeted Samara for their own ends. Also, the 12 civilian bodies found about 30 miles south of Baghdad in Latifya, this particular town, noted coalition forces here, as a problem -- as part of that problem area in the center of Iraq, an area where often people are killed for no apparent reason. This particularly unusual, that 12 bodies, all civilians, all apparently executed, all found together -- Tony.

HARRIS: Nic, let me ask you, does it -- is it the thinking that if the U.S. Marines can go into Fallujah and recapture that city that it will make it easier for coalition forces to operate throughout the whole of Iraq?

ROBERTSON: There's certainly the feeling that if you can -- that if it's possible to regain control of Fallujah, then it will bring stability to that particular town in advance of the elections, that Fallujah is part of that area west of Baghdad, along with Ramadi, along with the whole river valley there leading into Baghdad, that has been particularly tough for coalition forces, that if you can stabilize and secure Fallujah, then you may be able to spread and work out from there.

But there's no doubt that the coalition are very aware there are another number of problem towns in the central Iraq and that cracking Fallujah is by no means the end to their problems. But it is such a significant holdout and has been, if you will, a sort of a root of a lot of the problems, the coalition needs to know that they need to start somewhere, and Fallujah really is the root that they want to grasp first here -- Tony.

HARRIS: Nic Robertson reporting live for us from Baghdad this morning.

Nic, thank you.

The United Nations will beef up its staff in Iraq, for one, helping arrange the country's elections in January. But U.N. Secretary General Kofi Annan is worried that attacks on Fallujah and other insurgent strongholds could jeopardize those elections. In a letter obtained by CNN, Annan warns the U.S., Britain and Iraq that such attacks could be very disruptive for Iraq's political transition.

NGUYEN: Democrats in the Senate are regrouping after key losses in Tuesday's election. Illinois Senator Dick Durbin says he has enough votes from his colleagues to become the new Democratic whip. Now, that's the number two leadership job. Durbin says that despite what polls seem to indicate, Democrats are in touch with voters.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

SEN. DICK DURBIN (D-IL), INTELLIGENCE COMMITTEE: We need to tell the voters that we come to these important political issues with our own spiritual values. I think they, when they hear this, they're going to be satisfied that they're dealing with people that are much like themselves.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

NGUYEN: The Democrats lost four Senate seats in Tuesday's election, including that of minority leader Tom Daschle. Now, come January, Republicans will have 55 seats to Democrats 44 seats. There is one independent.

Some high school students in Colorado found a way to have a voice in the political process. About 70 students staged an all night sit- in at the Boulder High School library demanding to speak to political leaders. The students say they're worried about a possible draft, the national debt and the environment. The principal allowed the students to stay overnight Thursday as long as they made it to class on Friday, which they did, after speaking to local leaders of both parties.

HARRIS: With any president's second term, there is usually some kind of shakeup or cabinet shuffle and speculation is already under way about who will stay and who will go in the Bush administration.

CNN's Kathleen Koch has been listening to the Washington whispers.

(BEGIN VIDEO TAPE)

GEORGE W. BUSH, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES: I'm proud of every person here.

KATHLEEN KOCH, CNN CORRESPONDENT (voice-over): The cabinet shuffle, a political dance with the president calling the steps.

BUSH: The cabinet, there will be some changes. I don't know who they will be. It's inevitable there will be changes. It happens in every administration.

KOCH: Most turnover speculation focuses on the Bush national security team.

MICHAEL WEISSKOPF, "TIME" MAGAZINE: I would expect Secretary Powell to move over very quickly; possibly Attorney General Ashcroft, who's been there for four years and had some health problems, might move out, particularly because he was a symbol for the far right.

KOCH: Word is that Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld has no plans to leave. There's talk national security adviser Condoleezza Rice may be interested in a different role in the second term, but not secretary of state.

DAVID GERGEN, FORMER PRESIDENTIAL ADVISER: The social functions that you have to do and the pomp and circumstance that goes with that job, she finds that somewhat tedious. And she really likes the Defense Department. I think the growing possibility that Condi Rice is going to stay in Washington as -- and become the first woman to become secretary of defense.

KOCH: Other possible departures, Homeland Security Secretary Tom Ridge, Commerce Secretary Donald Evans, Energy Secretary Spencer Abraham, Education Secretary Rod Paige and Transportation Secretary Norman Mineta. But Washington observers point out that with elections in Iraq in January and developments in the Israeli-Palestinian situation, some may stay on a few months longer than expected.

ALLEN LICHTMAN, PRESIDENTIAL HISTORIAN: You are not going to see sudden and abrupt change. I think some will leave early, but if there's going to be change, it's going to be gradual and piecemeal.

KOCH (on camera): Now cabinet wannabes begin jockeying for position, while those departing plan new lives, often involving more time with their families and more lucrative private sector jobs.

Kathleen Koch, CNN, Washington.

(END VIDEO TAPE)

NGUYEN: Kofer Black, the State Department's anti-terrorism chief, is the first major Bush administration official to resign. The State Department says Black revealed his plans weeks before the presidential election. After a nearly 30 year government career, Black says it is time to take a breather and explore new opportunities.

Meanwhile, though, a key spot is filled in the CIA. An undercover officer known only as Dusty as been appointed executive director. The 22-year CIA veteran will be responsible for day to day operations.

HARRIS: Now our e-mail Question of the Day. Can Democrats and Republicans work together for the next four years? E-mail us now -- we love your e-mails -- at wam@cnn.com, and we'll read some of your responses throughout the morning.

NGUYEN: All right, everybody, get a mirror and smile. Do you like what you see? Well, if not, there is plenty of help to get your teeth whiter. Just ahead, we'll tell you how far is too far to go for that bright smile.

But first...

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

JOE O'HARA: If people really understood really what is involved in a gay relationship, what we have, I mean, we're not evil individuals.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

HARRIS: More and more American communities are banning gay marriage. We'll see what's next for same sex couples.

NGUYEN: And on the issue of gay marriage, the controversy over it could be one of the reasons the Democrats lost this election. Now here's a little perspective from the editorial cartoonist Rob Rogers at the "Pittsburgh Post Gazette."

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

HARRIS: It was July of last year an elderly man apparently loses control of his car, killing 10 people, injuring more than 60 others. Should he go to prison? The question for today's legal panel, next hour on CNN SATURDAY MORNING, at 8:00 a.m. Eastern.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

HARRIS: And stories across America now.

In California, registered nurses are registering their complaints with Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. At issue, a 4-year-old law that calls for additional nurses in hospital medical and surgical units. Governor Schwarzenegger's administration says that would be too expensive and has delayed implementation of the law until 2008.

In Washington State, take a look at this, an icy situation is creating some cold, hard questions. Where did this block of ice come from? The chunk smashed through the roof of a home in Kenten, landed on the bed of an 8-year-old girl. Some think it could be from ice built up on the wing of an airplane. The FAA is investigating.

And this man is in jeopardy of becoming a game show legend. Ken Jennings has won more than $2 million, the biggest game show haul ever.

NGUYEN: Wow!

HARRIS: He's won 67 consecutive shows so far, with no apparent end in sight. And have you seen it yet? "The Incredibles" is already stirring up an Oscar buzz.

NGUYEN: There we go.

HARRIS: Find out of all the talk is true. In a few minutes, we'll preview the new openings on the big screen.

NGUYEN: It sounds like a funny movie.

All right, well, let's talk about some other news.

New gay marriage bans and stronger defense of gay marriage acts? Not in Canada. America's neighbor to the north is going the opposite way on the hot button issue, deciding in favor of same-sex marriage. Just yesterday, a Saskatchewan court ruled to allow gay marriage. That makes the province the seventh jurisdiction in Canada to allow same-sex marriage.

Meanwhile, the Canadian Supreme Court is evaluating a federal law draft that could make gay marriage legal across the country.

And while some courts in Canada are giving gay marriages the green light, here in the U.S., many pondering the proposals are seeing red.

Our Tom Foreman explains.

(BEGIN VIDEO TAPE)

TOM FOREMAN, CNN CORRESPONDENT (voice-over): In a quiet neighborhood just outside of Washington, D.C., Joe O'Hara and Hoai Huynh have been together for four years. They've often thought about marriage, but after Tuesday's vote, they aren't sure what to think anymore.

O'HARA: If people really understood really what is involved in a gay relationship, what we have, I mean we're not evil individuals.

HOAI HUYNH: I think if you are lucky enough to find somebody that you love and that you can you want to marry, I think that's something that should not be -- that should be celebrated and not to be, you know, made to feel like we're kind of second-class people.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: I now pronounce you spouses for life.

FOREMAN: The gay community was euphoric earlier this year when a Massachusetts court opened the door to gay marriages. Since then, state governments, courts and voters have slammed it shut everywhere but Massachusetts. On Tuesday, 11 states banned gay marriage outright and conservatives say gay activists can blame themselves.

DAVID KEENE, AMERICAN CONSERVATIVE UNION: We live in a tolerant society. But the problem is that we are not a people who take kindly to people flaunting and demanding that we not just tolerate their activities, but that we sort of praise it and accept it and applaud it.

FOREMAN: Gay rights activists continue to believe the courts are their best hope for getting what voters do not want them to have, and at least one of the new bans is already being challenged. The Gay and Lesbian Task Force insists eventually this issue will reach the Supreme Court.

MATT FOREMAN, GAY AND LESBIAN TASK FORCE: Our concern, of course, is that when that case comes to the U.S. Supreme Court that it not be dominated by right-wing ideologues, which the president has promised to appoint to the court.

FOREMAN: Their opponents do not intend to wait.

KEENE: Unless the courts back off, it is going to require a constitutional amendment and we will support his effort to get one passed.

(on camera): You know this is going to be a very long uphill battle at this point.

O'HARA: Oh, yes. There is a just huge lack of understanding.

FOREMAN (voice-over): Some gays accept that full marriage rights may never be won. But others say the latest setbacks are temporary and an incentive to keep fighting.

Tom Foreman, CNN, Washington.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

NGUYEN: Well, Yasser Arafat is clinging to life today while Palestinians plan for life without their long time leader. Details in a live report that's ahead on CNN SATURDAY MORNING. HARRIS: And always together, gone together. An emotional story of two best friends who never returned from a mission.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

NGUYEN: Experts in the field of super computing. All right, who am I kidding? Some might call them computer nerds. Well, they are gathering in Pittsburgh this weekend for a big time conference.

Good morning, Pittsburgh. Look at it as the sun is coming up.

So, what kind of weather should you expect there? Rob Marciano is doing some super computing himself and he'll have the forecast in just a minute.

But first, if you need a post-election break, how about an escape to the movie theater.

HARRIS: Right.

NGUYEN: Here's a preview of what's opening this week.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP FROM "ALFIE," COURTESY PARAMOUNT PICTURES)

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Oh, I don't deserve you.

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Yes, that's probably true. Too bad I love you.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Thanks, baby.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

NGUYEN: That's not exactly what she wanted to hear. Yes. All right, a British playboy in New York City leads a carefree lifestyle, obviously, until he comes face to face with his own mortality and faces down the loneliness of his life. In this remake of Lewis Gilbert's 1966 film, Jude Law is in the title role. The "Chicago Tribune" calls "Alfie" "utterly satisfying."

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP FROM "THE INCREDIBLES," COURTESY DISNEY/PIXAR)

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Hey, what's that? Where'd you get that, mom?

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: You had a cool outfit. Hey, look for us. We all need cool outfits. Haha!

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Dash, you come back here this moment.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

NGUYEN: Look at the arms on her! Whoa. A family of former superheroes has been living as mere mortals in the suburbs for 15 years. But Mr. Incredible is itching for some action and finds a top secret assignment on a remote island. "The Incredibles" might hit it big with kids and adults alike. The "Hollywood Reporter" calls it red hot and very funny. I've seen some of the clips from this thing. It looks hilarious.

HARRIS: Well, that's a thing we have to see. I mean I guess that's the movie.

NGUYEN: "The Incredibles." Well, you've got kids. You have reason to go see it.

HARRIS: And apparently it's OK for us to go see, too. So field trip.

NGUYEN: A field trip.

HARRIS: Just a thought.

ROB MARCIANO, CNN METEOROLOGIST: That seems to be a hot thing, though, right?

HARRIS: Yes.

MARCIANO: Kind of cartoon puppet movies that appeal to kids and adults.

HARRIS: Yes.

NGUYEN: And adults, exactly.

HARRIS: Yes.

MARCIANO: But the weather this weekend may not be conducive to the matinees and things like that.

NGUYEN: It wouldn't? It's kind of cold here.

MARCIANO: Well, but it's nice out.

HARRIS: Just to get outside and enjoy yourself. Right. Right.

MARCIANO: Yes, I mean, a lot of folks are going to be experiencing some bright sunshine and you know...

NGUYEN: A lot of folks, just not us.

MARCIANO: Oh, it'll be here.

HARRIS: Good to see you, Rob.

MARCIANO: Hey, Tony.

HARRIS: Good morning.

MARCIANO: Buddy, you know, half this glass is empty. Come on.

NGUYEN: I came in with a coat on this morning facing, what, 30 degree temperatures that they were talking about? MARCIANO: It's not quite that cold. But it's, you know, it's chilly.

NGUYEN: I'm from Texas. We don't like it cold.

MARCIANO: I know. OK, put a sweater on.

NGUYEN: All right, I have a sweater on.

MARCIANO: Tony, keep her warm here in the next 30 seconds or so.

HARRIS: Whatever I need to do.

NGUYEN: Whatever I need.

(WEATHER REPORT)

HARRIS: Well, big games, big names, really big dough. Wait until you hear what the corporations are paying for a commercial spot during the Shaq v. Kobe showdown. We'll take you "Beyond The Game" in about 20 minutes.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

JESSICA NEFF, TEETH WHITENING "JUNKIE": I've tried the tray and gel systems over the counter. I've tried the tray and gel systems in office. I've done the Rembrandt gel and toothpaste. I've done the Crest white strips. I've just tried the new Oral B white strips and the paint on brush that you use.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

NGUYEN: What hasn't she tried? Pearly white or translucent blue, the color of your teeth is in your hands. Dr. Sanjay Gupta will tell you how to combine dental beauty with dental health. That's a little bit later this hour on CNN SATURDAY MORNING.

(BEGIN VIDEO TAPE)

HOLLY FIRFER, CNN CORRESPONDENT (voice-over): Contrary to popular belief, a new study says smoking low tar cigarettes, commonly called light or ultra light, does not lower your risk of lung cancer because low tar smokers tend to inhale more deeply and hold it longer than those who smoke regular cigarettes. Another study published in the "American Journal of Health Behavior," says smoking may be mind over matter. If you define yourself as a non-smoker it may be easier to become one.

Women are about 20 percent less likely than men to quit smoking and stick with it for more than six months. Researchers say lack of confidence in succeeding could be a factor.

Holly Firfer, CNN, Atlanta.

(END VIDEO TAPE)

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

HARRIS: Questions about the health of Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat.

Welcome back, everyone.

I'm Tony Harris.

NGUYEN: And I'm Betty Nguyen.

We have a live update on Arafat's condition in just a minute.

But first, here's a look at the headlines this morning.

New attacks in Iraq this morning. Twenty U.S. Marines have been wounded in an attack on their convoy. It happened near Ramadi, which is west of Baghdad. And north of Baghdad, in the city of Samara, a string of attacks killed at least 34 people and wounded dozens more. Insurgents used car bombs and mortars.

Explosions and gunfire this morning in Fallujah. U.S. warplanes are again pounding targets in and around the rebel held Iraqi city. Meantime, U.S. tanks have been in action in northeastern Fallujah. The attacks are laying the groundwork for what is expected to be a major offensive by U.S. and Iraqi forces.

Now to California. Taking a break, that is what the jury is doing this weekend in Scott Peterson's murder trial. Jurors wrapped up a third day of deliberations Friday without reaching a verdict. Court TV says the jury has asked to inspect Peterson's boat. Prosecutors say he used it to dump the body of his pregnant wife, Laci.

HARRIS: Reports are all over the map. U.S. officials say Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat is in a coma and on life support. A spokesman for the hospital near Paris says his condition is stable. But there is much talk about working out burial arrangements.

Michael Holmes is in Ramallah, where Arafat has spent the last two years, and he is here now to help us sort out all the facts -- good morning, Michael.

MICHAEL HOLMES, CNN CORRESPONDENT: Hi to you, Tony.

Yes, so many questions, so few answers. What we're hearing about Yasser Arafat's medical condition is that he is actually better today. He is described by various contacts of ours as being stable. Two of them used the phrase that he is not in any immediate danger of dying.

Now, that won't stop the vigil outside that hospital. He's obviously still very ill, however. Doctors still carrying out a battery of tests. We're told that they still don't even know for sure what it is that ails him.

Now, in terms of what's happening on the ground here in the Palestinian territories, there has been a slew of meetings going on. In fact, a representative of the State Department meeting with the Palestinian prime minister, Ahmed Qureia, a little earlier today, basically to find out what plans were in place were the Palestinian leader to die, particularly not so much in terms of succession, but in terms of security on the ground. Also discussions behind-the-scenes on where he would be buried. Those discussions among Palestinians and also between Palestinians and Israelis.

The Israelis do not want him buried in Jerusalem. That's exactly where Palestinians and Arafat himself would like to be buried. So there's still a lot of work to be done on that.

Ahmed Qureia headed off to Gaza about two or three hours ago. He's gone there to meet with all of the factions in that strip of land, including Fatah, Hamas, Islamic Jihad, to try to make sure that if the worst happens, from the Palestinian point of view, and Yasser Arafat does die, that there will be security on the ground, that things don't blow up, that a power vacuum doesn't lead to an on the ground power struggle, which is a worse case scenario.

So what's happening now is that the Palestinian Authority is having a meeting, the executive committee, right now, behind me, as we speak, at the Palestinian Authority headquarters. They're involved in the day to day running of affairs. They're very quick to point out that they are not doing Yasser Arafat's job. They're merely filling in while he is incapacitated. No one here wants to jump on the bandwagon, or, as one person put it to us, show disrespect of the Palestinian leader by trying to jump the gun, as it were, and act like he's already gone.

They say they hope he comes back -- Tony.

HARRIS: Michael Holmes reporting live from Ramallah.

Michael, thank you -- Betty.

NGUYEN: Now to our "Terror Watch," where we update you on the week's major developments in the war on terror. Lawyers for Zacarias Moussaoui want delays in court proceedings against him. The lawyers say all proceedings should there postponed while pretrial issues are being appealed. Moussaoui, the only person accused so far in connection with the 9/11 attacks, is charged with terrorism conspiracy.

Dutch politicians are hiring bodyguards and promising a crackdown following the killing of a filmmaker who has been critical of Islamic fundamentalists. A note pinned with a knife to the body of Theo Van Gogh threatened political leaders. A Dutch Moroccan man has been charged in the Van Gogh killing, and six others, labeled Islamic radicals by prosecutors, will be charged with conspiracy.

The State Department has warned Americans in Uzbekistan that terror attacks on U.S. interests there could be imminent. An official says the threat is from am extremist group called the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan. Americans are urged to use extreme caution. Avoid large crowds and places where Westerners gather.

HARRIS: Turning now to the war in Iraq and the story of two soldiers and friends who were virtually inseparable.

Jared Hubbard and Jeremiah Baro grew up together, always looked out for each other, and in a tragic end to their friendship, the two recently met the same fate together.

Amy Allen of affiliate KGPE has their story.

(BEGIN VIDEO TAPE)

AMY ALLEN, KGPE CORRESPONDENT (voice-over): They were best friends at Buchanan High School, on the wrestling team and then joined the Marines after graduation on the condition they would serve side by side. Now their families face unthinkable grief after an explosion killed Jeremiah Baro and Jared Hubbard in Iraq.

MIKE BARO, RELATIVE: This was their second tour in Iraq. I know they were both there together. So -- and I just knew that they were like the best of friends, you know, and a lot of people liked them.

ALLEN: Baro's family say the pair were stationed near Ramadi, an area marked by fighting in recent weeks. Baro and Hubbard also served in 2002, fighting during the initial stages of the war, and then bravely volunteered to go again.

Through his pain, Baro's father said his son died doing what he believed in.

(on camera): You still support what they're doing?

BURT BARO, FATHER: Oh, yes, more than ever. I want them to finish the job.

ALLEN: As the family turns to one another for support, they will remember Jeremiah Baro not just as a brave Marine, but as a loving and exceptional young man.

M. BARO: He was just always just full of energy and he wanted to make everybody smile. That's what I want everybody to know about.

(END VIDEO TAPE)

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

NGUYEN: There's no magic diet involved and you can forget about those weight loss pills. But it is a way to lose pounds that has 300,000 people on the move. So what's their secret? Well, tune in to CNN SATURDAY MORNING at 9:00 a.m. Eastern to find out.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

NGUYEN: All right, if you didn't have a chance to keep up with the news during the week, that is what we are here for. Time now to "Rewind," the major stories you may have missed. Actually, it was pretty hard to miss this one.

HARRIS: Yes. NGUYEN: Election Day, 2004 -- 51 percent of Americans voted to keep President Bush in the White House for another term. The president says he now has a mandate. Democrats conceded the next day.

Meanwhile, another election comes to an end. Hamid Karzai formally accepts the presidency of Afghanistan. The joint U.N.-Afghan board proclaimed his victory in the October 9 popular vote. Karzai promised to keep drug money out of the government.

And on Friday, an upbeat jobs report for the month of October triggers a rally on Wall Street. The number of newly created jobs is the best in seven months, but unemployment rate edged up 5.5 percent. The market, however, finished the week with three straight days of gains. Investors like that.

Well, tomorrow, we will fast forward to the week ahead and tell you which stories will grab the spotlight.

HARRIS: So, how far would you go for a sparkling smile? For some people, getting one has turned into an addiction.

CNN's senior medical correspondent Dr. Sanjay Gupta has more.

(BEGIN VIDEO TAPE)

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP FROM COMMERCIAL)

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: Whiter teeth after just three days, full results in seven.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

DR. SANJAY GUPTA, CNN MEDICAL CORRESPONDENT (voice-over): TV commercials and magazine ads promise sparkling white smiles. And who doesn't want that? But for some, teeth whitening has become an obsession.

NEFF: I've tried the tray and gel systems over the counter. I've tried the tray and gel systems in office. I've done the Rembrandt gel and toothpaste. I've done the Crest White Strips. I've just tried the new Oral B White Strips and the paint on brush that you use.

GUPTA: And fueling Jessica's fascination with teeth whitening, shows like "The Swan" and "Extreme Makeover," and, of course, the desire to make a dazzling first impression. She's part after growing numbers of consumers referred to as teeth whitening junkies, people who excessively bleach.

DR. JONATHAN LEVINE, AESTHETIC DENTIST: The manufacturer says use it for two weeks, morning and night, twice a day, or 10 days every day. That doesn't mean doubling up on it and use it for three months.

GUPTA: Once a treatment that was only administered by dentists, cheap and easy at-home products have transformed teeth whitening into a relatively safe and effective beauty regimen for millions of Americans.

(on camera): But abusing these products might be harmful, causing gum irritation, over sensitivity and, in some cases, irreversible damage.

LEVINE: You're breaking down the structural integrity of the tooth. These people will be prone to fractures, and they're going to need some type of long-term restorations to restore the tooth that the whitening broke down from the inside.

GUPTA (voice-over): Ironically, excessive bleaching can turn pearly whites into an unnatural translucent blue. Some simple guidelines can help to avoid this kind of permanent damage from at- home whitening. Follow the directions, especially length and frequency of use. Use concentrations lower than 7 percent hydrogen peroxide. Look for hydrogen peroxide instead of carbamide peroxide ingredients. Steer clear of online products, which are mainly unregulated by the FDA. And, of course, talk to your dentist before starting any whitening regimen.

As far as Jessica goes, she is still obsessed with white teeth, but she does check with her dentist regularly, and together they keep that smile sparkling.

Dr. Sanjay Gupta, CNN, Atlanta.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

NGUYEN: I think the key here is to follow directions. I've tried the, you know, trays, you know, the teeth whitening?

HARRIS: Yes? Really?

NGUYEN: I didn't do it exactly right. It turned my gums white.

HARRIS: That's the thing, the sensitivity with the gums...

NGUYEN: It can be a problem.

HARRIS: I'm just trying to keep my teeth in my head with the cavities in there.

NGUYEN: That's a whole another issue, Tony.

HARRIS: That's a whole another issue. Doctor, help me, please.

NGUYEN: Exactly. Dr. Sanjay, we need some help here.

All right, three pointers, free throws, slam dunks -- the NBA is back on the court and the fans are back in the seats. They broke an NBA record for attendance last year. Can the league generate that same excitement this year? Well, there's only one man to ask. Who knows more about the business of sports than Rick Horrow?

HARRIS: Hey, come on, Rick.

NGUYEN: Oh, he's on the phone with his agent, of course.

HARRIS: He's big timing us. Look at him, he's big timing us.

NGUYEN: Trying to score a deal.

Well, he takes us "Beyond The Game" right here on CNN SATURDAY MORNING.

Hey, Rick.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

NGUYEN: Well, good morning to the city that never sleeps. Here's a beautiful live picture of New York City.

Are you a Whoopi Goldberg fan? Well, then head to Broadway for the first preview of her show, "Whoopi: The 20th Anniversary." The show opens November 17. I like that music.

We'll have the weather forecast for you, New York, in about 10 minutes.

In the meantime, we're going to check our top stories this morning.

There's been a deadly string of attacks in the Iraqi city of Samara, which is about 60 miles north of Baghdad. Two car bombings and a mortar attack have killed at least 34 people. Dozens more are wounded.

In Afghanistan, the fate of three United Nations workers remains in the balance. The insurgents who kidnapped them had threatened to kill them, but now there are unconfirmed reports the militants have started negotiating.

Also in Iraq, 20 U.S. Marines have been wounded in an attack on their convoy. It happened near the town of Ramadi, which is west of Baghdad. The area has been an insurgent stronghold.

And don't forget our e-mail question this morning. Can the two parties work together the next four years? Tell us what you think. We're at wam@cnn.com. We'll be reading your replies in just a few minutes.

HARRIS: All right, let's do it. A $70,000 price tag for a commercial during a regular season basketball game featuring a showdown between two former teammates? Possible evidence that the basketball business is doing quite well, thank you.

Last year, the NBA set an attendance record with nearly 22 million people at the games and the league is in the middle of a $4.6 billion network deal. The first games tipped off Tuesday night, a signal that it's time to take you "Beyond The Game" to follow the bouncing ball all the way to the bank.

Our point guard is the author of "When the Game Is On the Line." He is a CNN analyst and our own Saturday morning superstar, Rick Horrow -- good morning, Rick.

Are you off the phone call?

RICK HORROW, CNN SPORTS BUSINESS ANALYST: Yes, I just finished.

OK, superstar, we've been doing this like three, four months.

HARRIS: Yes.

HORROW: And you finally got it.

HARRIS: Oh, is that it?

HORROW: I appreciate that. Thanks a lot. Superstar. That's cool.

HARRIS: You want that one to stick?

HORROW: That's sticking.

HARRIS: OK.

HORROW: That is, with a capital S.

HARRIS: Well, help me with this one superstar.

HORROW: Yes?

HARRIS: Seventy thousand for one commercial in one basketball game? What the heck is going on here?

HORROW: Well, here's the answer, and you said it, that $4.6 billion TV deal. And frankly the NBA, some say, sold out to cable. But David Stern, the commissioner, said, just like we all understand it, it's a cable TV world for you, thank god, right? The point is that, for example, "Mash" was viewed by twice as many viewers in their final episode than "Friends" final episode was just a year ago. That's evidence.

What do they do? Promote, promote, promote.

The teams that are on the most with the NBA season this year are, not surprisingly, for example, The Heat, Shaquille O'Neal; the Lakers, Kobe Bryant; the Timberwolves, Kevin Garnett; the Cleveland Cavaliers, Lebron James; and, of course, Yao Ming and his reach to China.

The bottom line, Tony, is this is not a Michael Jordan league anymore. They're promoting the superstars.

HARRIS: Something tells me that $70,000 for one commercial in one game is probably the game, the Christmas Day game with Shaq and Kobe?

HORROW: That's it. Tune in your TV sets right now. Line up in front of those stores. Order your turkey. Tell your non-basketball fans how you want the game to start at a certain time and the turkey to start at a certain time. That's when the ratings are going to start around NBA season.

HARRIS: OK, players salaries are up almost, what, 400 percent in 10 years.

How can the teams afford all of this?

HORROW: Well, they can because there is a structure to keep the superstars in the cities and pay for them. Kevin Garnett, by the way, as you know, is making nearly $28 million a year.

HARRIS: Yes.

HORROW: Shaq, $27 million or so; Rasheed Wallace, with the champion Pistons, about $16 million or $17 million. It's the salary cap, luxury tax, revenue sharing, three legged stool that helped the NFL and the NBA is really significant as far as that's concerned.

Here's where the rubber hits the road, the franchise values. Twenty years ago, when David Stern started as commissioner, teams were bought and sold at about $15 million. Now, the Bobcats and Bob Johnson started in Charlotte this last year.

HARRIS: Yes?

HORROW: Price? $300 million.

HARRIS: Wow!

HORROW: That's a significant return on investment.

HARRIS: OK, so the teams are making money, paying their players more.

How much of that revenue is actually coming from the fans?

HORROW: Well, a lot of it. And one of the problems, of course, is the average ticket price keeps going up. In '94, the ticket price was pretty low, $27 a game, you know, compared to now $45, $46. And the NBA continues, though, to bring the fans in, 22 million record attendance last year. There are still some challenges.

Basketball participation is down about 20 percent, even though you may not care. But I'm playing ball tomorrow. And the bottom line is they have the kids that need to continue to strengthen their support for the game.

The NBA tag line, I love the game, maybe they don't love it as much now, but a lot of people are coming back to heavy like.

HARRIS: OK, heavy like.

All right, Rick, before we let you go, how about your fair ball of the week?

HORROW: Hey, quick, democracy in action, you know, not only was there a presidential election, but there were seven referendums on stadium stuff this last week. And the Cowboys were the big winner with a billion dollar construction. There was also a downtown arena in Wichita and a soccer stadium in Colorado Springs.

There were some defeats, but the bottom line is tax money is being used for public facilities for sports and it is democracy in action.

HARRIS: And how about the foul ball?

HORROW: Well, the National Hockey League. You know, they just canceled the All Star Game in Atlanta.

HARRIS: The All Star Game, yes.

HORROW: And they're a $100 million economic impact and maybe 1,300 games all over the North America. A poll says at best 80 percent of the Canadians who were polled have better things to do. And if they don't watch it, the $2.5 billion revenues a year may go away and instead of watching hockey in the winter, we may be watching skiing and speed skating as the only winter sports we've got.

HARRIS: Ouch! Ouch! Here's our Saturday morning superstar, Rick Horrow.

Nothing but net.

Good to see you, Rick.

Take care.

HORROW: Hey, see you next week, man.

HARRIS: OK, man.

Take care -- Betty.

NGUYEN: He likes that superstar name. All right, it'll stick.

Well, one minute you're looking at a calm, expansive snow and ice and the next, check it out. Kaboom! You'll definitely want to see that again, plus other remarkable video from the past week. Our "Wows of the Week" when CNN SATURDAY MORNING returns.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

HARRIS: OK, today's "Wows of the Week" takes us to Portland, Oregon. It's a bit early for Christmas, but that didn't stop an 18- year-old from trying to be a little like Santa Claus. The homeowner came home to discover the alleged burglar stuck inside the chimney. Firefighters finally got him out. Now he's stuck in jail.

In the capital of Taiwan, a man shouting "Jesus will save you!" inexplicably climbed into the lion exhibit at the zoo. The big cats were not impressed. Look at this. The man suffered a few bites before zookeepers subdued the cats and got him out. Look how calm he is. And they say the lions had just been fed, which probably saved him from a fatal mauling.

And in the land of fire and ice, a spectacular volcanic eruption beneath Iceland's largest glacier. Airliners had to be diverted around the gigantic plume of black ash. Seismologists say the volcano quieted down immediately afterward.

NGUYEN: Boy, those are some amazing pictures.

Well, we want to get -- let's see, we want to get a look at the weather this morning. No volcanic activity anywhere on the West Coast.

HARRIS: No, no.

NGUYEN: Mount Saint Helens...

HARRIS: Or in most of the nation.

MARCIANO: No. That volcano -- that thing makes Saint Helens look like small potatoes.

HARRIS: It really did.

NGUYEN: Oh, yes.

MARCIANO: And nice work on the line video there.

HARRIS: Yes.

MARCIANO: That's crazy.

(WEATHER REPORT)

HARRIS: Hey, let's get to our e-mail Question of the Day and a couple of your responses. We wanted to know from you if you think the Republicans and Democrats will be able to work it out over the next four years.

NGUYEN: Nadine in Massachusetts writes: "No. We have a stalemate."

HARRIS: And this one from John from Newport Ritchie, Florida: "Now I know CNN has to be kidding."

NGUYEN: Well, we're not kidding. That's our e-mail Question of the Day. Send us your thoughts.

The next hour of CNN SATURDAY MORNING begins right now.

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