You make some good points for all to consider. #11 is not one of the reasons to increase the authorized. Remember, for some time now GTE has had 10MM Blank Check Preferred shares that would more than take care of the "takeover" scenario.
11) It is my understanding that by increasing the A/S, we can also help to prevent a hostile takeover.
(from 14A filing) "We have not proposed the increase in the authorized number of shares with the intention of using the additional shares for anti-takeover purposes, although we could theoretically use the additional shares to make more difficult or to discourage an attempt to acquire control of the company." http://www.pinksheets.com/quote/print_filings.jsp?url=%2Fredirect.asp%3Ffilename%3D0001144204%252D05...