CHAFFEE COUNTY, COLORADO -- Chris , a long-time resident in northern Chaffee County and good friend of Steve "ColoradoGuy" Garufi, announced he is running for the position of Hair Consultant in the upcoming mid-April election.

While standing in front of his truck (with Mt. Princeton in the background), Chris stated he does not consider himself a politician but believes he is the best candidate to help Steve reach his long hair goals.

"This is so not like me. I can't believe I even agreed to this." said Chris.

Being that Chris has lived in rural Chaffee County for the past 26 years, he believes all of his friends and connections in the area will help him easily win Chaffee County's 22 electoral votes.

Chris admitted he does not have much knowledge about hair, but believes his experience of having long hair as a teenager in the 1960's will help.

"Wearing your hair long and wild on the streets says something about the strength of your personality." added Chris.

Chris is the fourth candidate to say he is running for the job and will be competing against upholsterer "Florida Pete" Harrison in Florida, 18-year-old high school student Sarah B. in Idaho and avid road bicyclist Dave Ortiz in New Mexico.

(Adjacent photo: Chris has a discussion with a concerned voter about issues related to Steve's hair and Hair Consultant politics.)

The position of Hair Consultant was created so that Steve would have a coach, encourager and "go to person" as he works towards his long hair goals. Similar to how a "sponsor" works in anonymous 12-step groups, a Hair Consulant is expected to be available "24-7" to be contacted if Steve should ever think so stupidly as to give into the temptation to cut his hair.

This year's Hair Consultant election will be held on April 13-16, 2006, and all are encouraged to vote. Visit the 2006 Hair Consultant election page for more details.