First, no matter what Mills says, they have not scaled-down their proposed mall; nor abandoned it for a different open-air concept; nor significantly decreased the impacts already studied. As a last-ditch effort to win support, they are muddying the waters by suggesting a willingness to change things, but whether they would hold to such a course is not clear, and certainly not guaranteed.

Second, the Massachusetts Highway Department estimates the megamall will generate from 49,000 to 52,000 additional auto trips. That's an additional 17-18 million cars on local roads. If the roads are maxed-out now--and they are!--what will this additional traffic mean? Even with proposed road improvements, there would still be major tie-ups at peak travel times.

Third, nobody except proponents of the megamall are talking about an airport. Massport has specifically stated they have no interest; the three towns involved would have to change their zoning; and nobody seems to want an airport here! Yet this red herring will be waved high above everyone's heads in the coming weeks. Count on it.

Fourth, a vote against the megamall is not a vote against the reuse plan. The reuse plan would go on, but the Tri-Town Development Corporation would be forced to seek out more creative, less harmful solutions.

Fifth, since you can't kill the reuse plan, you certainly have no reason to expect the Navy to take back the property. The truth is, they don't want it; nor do they want to be back at square one trying to get rid of it.

Sixth, according to figures Mills once posted on their web site, the average Mills Megamall draws 18 million visitors a year. In Massachusetts, Quincy Market is the top tourist draw, pulling in 14 million visitors a year. If the mall goes in, and does average business for a Mills Megamall, you could be living next to the single largest tourist attraction in New England.

Lastly, widespread opposition to the megamall is real. And growing. Months ago, a Patriot Ledger poll showed public opinion two to one against the megamall. That tide of opposition has only risen higher as people have taken a good look at what Mills really represents. This month, in an act of sheer desperation, Mills conducted a telephone survey so biased in favor of the mall its outcome was laughable.

These are just a few of the reasons why people of good judgement and long-range vision should go out and vote on December 9th. And vote NO MALL!