Proof

Scott Ritter raises some interesting questions in his June 19 commentary, "Behind 'Plot' on Hussein, a Secret Agenda," but he doesn't go far enough. So far, the Bush administration has failed to make a case for why we should attack Iraq. Is it because Saddam Hussein possesses weapons of mass destruction? There is no solid proof yet presented to the American people. And even if Iraq does possess such weapons, is that reason enough to attack? Other countries, notably China, Russia, Pakistan and India, also have weapons of mass destruction.

Videotape from one of the commando helicopters that attacked an Iranian ship in the Persian Gulf turned up blank and failed to capture proof that the ship was laying mines, Pentagon officials said today. Officials were miffed by repeated questions about the videotape at the White House and the Pentagon because of suggestions that the Reagan Administration's credibility is in doubt with lack of photographic or televised evidence of Iranians caught in the act.

The plan to deconstruct the young and exciting Galaxy by the implementation of a "dispersal draft" in favor of yet another aging Mexican star is clear proof of the folly of single entity and exposes Major League Soccer for what it is, a dog and pony show, rather than the competitive sports league I had imagined at its inception. ART KEMPF West Hollywood

Cereal Giveaway Approved: General Mills Inc.'s plan to settle a class-action lawsuit by giving away $10 million in free cereal was approved this week by a Cook County Circuit Court judge in Chicago. Consumers who mail in a certificate published in 500 newspapers plus a proof of purchase will be eligible for a coupon for free cereal over the next six months.

Regarding Andrew Tobias' sponsorship of a bill to add an additional gas tax of 25 to 35 cents per gallon at the pump, to protect us against the uninsured motorist (Nov. 9): That's nuts! The way it is supposed to work is--no insurance, no drive. Period! When a person renews his or her driver's license, he or she must provide valid proof of insurance. No exceptions. Renewal of license plate tag, he or she must provide valid proof of insurance. No exceptions. If your car is impounded for any reason, valid proof of insurance before you can claim your vehicle.

Once again Julie Cart has distinguished herself with a misleading and factually incorrect article. This time the subject is drinking among NHL players. For proof of widespread alcohol abuse, Cart details the cases of eight current or former players, which is exactly 2% of the more than 420 NHL players on current rosters. This characterizes widespread usage? ANDREW JAMNER Los Angeles

The Oct. 25 article by Toni Taylor on the fine print in travel insurance policies should be required reading for all seniors about to commit their funds to a trip. Insurance is a high commission item on a salesperson's agenda and it is routinely presented to all travelers. It is an excellent idea, and in most cases well worth the mental comfort that it affords. But that fine print: We used trip cancellation insurance issued by a reputable company. My husband was stricken with really debilitating vertigo the afternoon before we were to sail on a cruise.