For years, the governor and other politicians down in Augusta have been wondering why folks are leaving Maine or why they want to (even though they "really don't" want to leave). Well, every time said politicians look in the mirror, the answer is right there.

My brother recently needed a copy of his birth certificate, so my father made the trek from Winslow to Augusta to get it for him. No problem, right?

Well, maybe if he had gone before now. In the "good ol' days" (or three weeks ago) anyone who wanted a birth or death certificate could get one for $15 and wait maybe 15 minutes while they got it ready.

Now, to the dismay of pretty much everyone who walks through the door, the cost has skyrocketed from $15 to $60 -- and you have to wait at least 24 hours.

Really? Four times as much and you have to come back for it?

In the 14 years since I picked up my birth certificate in Augusta for $10, computers and the Internet have really taken off and have made things a lot easier, right?

Anyone would think so, but not the folks in Augusta. In fact, if anyone were to try to get their certificate via the state's Web site, it is easier -- "for an additional $20."

Maine is already one of the most taxed states in the nation. Does the governor and the rest of the folks representing Maine really want everyone to pull up their stakes and leave?

I thought not. But, it will happen if the governor and the state keeps pulling stuff like this. It's unfair to all Mainers and is certainly not "The Way Life Should Be." I know times are hard everywhere, but for Mainers, life "shouldn't be" this expensive.

Ron Raymond Jr.

Winslow