DENVER, CO -- Governor Bill Owens, the chief executive of Colorado, declined an invitation to meet with Steve Garufi, known as "ColoradoGuy," for a digital camera photo-op and possible news story. Owens, who is running for a second term this year, cited "needing to maintain the dignity of the office."

Last week Garufi wrote an e-mail to the governor's office, humbly requesting a short time to meet with the governor. The Internet personality shared his desire to publish a humorous news story and even offered a couple of concocted headline suggestions such as "Governor Owens Spills Coffee on Steve's New Shirt" or "Governor Supports Steve's Long Hair."

Although Steve felt hurt and disappointed after reading a personalized and handwritten letter received in the mail, he understood the Governor's decision.

"I don't blame Mr. Owens in any way," explained Steve, who voted for Owens during his successful election bid in 1998, "I'm pretty nuts and from his point of view, it might be wise to be cautious with me, especially being an election year."

"The only thing I want to know is ... would Governor Owens accept an invitation to David Letterman's show(?), because I know that I'm funnier sometimes than he is." exclaimed Steve.

Many in the ColoradoGuy community agreed that Steve should not be offended.

Vern Peterson, a popular critic of this web site who voted for Owens, reflected on today's political culture. "I think (Owens) is smart. You're a fun guy and in politics today, there's always someone looking to take a pop shot at an elected official ... It's a shame."

Chris Morton, another friend and Owens supporter, was hesitant to speak publicly about the letter. However his few words seemed to harmonize with Owens' decision, "Oh good. It's good for (Owens) that he said 'no.'"

"(Governor Owens) has better things to do, Steve." replied Sherri Auld upon learning of the event. Auld has been mentioned as possible candidate to fill the vacant position of Hair Consultant.

Mark Olsen of Colorado Springs, was the only person interviewed who believed Owens should meet with Garufi. "You're a constituent. You're a taxpayer. I think the (Owens) letter is a little cold." The real estate agent voted for Owens in 1998, but despite the letdown, intends to cast his ballot for the Republican again in November.

According to Steve, Garufi has no intention of making Governor Owens "look bad." However, he has not ruled out contacting and meeting with the Democratic nominee who will challenge Owens in this year's November general election.

With ColoradoGuy.com rapidly growing in popularity, Steve began utilizing his meager political influence since last year. Last year, Steve met the Lieutenant Governor of Wyoming, Joseph Meyer, while visiting the Wyoming State Capitol Building.