Terror alert prompts tighter security

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Registered: 03-23-2003
Terror alert prompts tighter security
Mon, 12-22-2003 - 4:40pm

Is anyone here concerned?  Or, like me, just ignoring it?Yawn


http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/national/apus_story.asp?category=1110&slug=Terror%20Threat%20States


Monday, December 22, 2003 · Last updated 1:11 p.m. PT


Terror alert prompts tighter security


By SETH HETTENA
ASSOCIATED PRESS WRITER


Commuters and holiday travelers alike encountered tighter security at the nation's airports, train stations, bridges and highways Monday, a day after the government raised the national threat level and said attacks were possible during the holidays.


Many people shrugged off the heightened alert, but some were nervous.


Connecticut state troopers watched highway bridges and rode commuter trains heading in and out of New York.


"It's just the government making everyone aware so if something happens, they can say, 'See, we told you,'" said Eric Kerzner, 29, of Milford, Conn., who commutes to New York. "You can't be scared."


On Sunday, the federal government raised the national terror-attack warning to "Code Orange," its second-highest level, following warnings that al-Qaida may be plotting attacks against the United States during the holidays. Homeland Security Secretary Tom Ridge said threat indicators are "perhaps greater now than at any point" since Sept. 11.


Some morning commuters seemed unfazed.


Joe Saydlowski, also of Milford, said the elevated level was expected with the recent capture of Saddam Hussein and the holiday season.


"It's disturbing, but I guess kind of anticipated," said Saydlowski, 51. "I think it provides more safety. I'm not sure how much additional protection there is in reality."


New York City, which has been at Code Orange status since the color-coded system was introduced in March 2002, mobilized hundreds of extra police officers to patrol locations considered susceptible to attack - including places of worship, landmarks, tourist attractions, Wall Street and subway stations.


Waiting for a subway in Lower Manhattan on Monday morning, David Davidson of Brooklyn said he was not concerned about the elevated alert. "Not more than anything else. I understand that living is a risk in itself, and you take it," he said.


In some cases, police assign heavily armed and highly visible "Hercules" teams to deter potential terrorist activity. In other cases, surveillance is less noticeable - but just as vigilant, Mayor Michael Bloomberg said.


"Whether you think you're being watched or don't think you're being watched, you are being watched," Bloomberg said.


Rockettes