FARMINGTON, NEW MEXICO -- Road bicyclist Dave Ortiz, Steve's close friend and bicycling partner, announced his candidacy yesterday for Hair Consultant in the upcoming 2006 Hair Consultant election that will be held in mid-April.

Dave, who resides in Farmington, New Mexico and works as an engineer for anti-drunk driving technologies, said he has always wanted to run for public office and full endorses Steve's plan to grow his hair half way down his back.

"I want to say (that) if I am elected Hair Consultant, I will do everything I can to encourage Steve with reaching his long hair goals."

On Christmas Day, Dave was involved in a horrific accident when he was struck from behind by a car while bicycling in his neighborhood. Currently recovering at home from a variety of broken bones, he is not working and intends to put much time and effort during the campaign season to convince people via e-mail and on the forums to vote for him.

Dave's Overwhelming Generosity

In the area of bicycling, Dave's friendship to Steve compares to no other. They bicycled quite a few times in 2005, including rides in Creede (left photo), Chaffee County (Salida and Buena Vista), Telluride and Denver. On their two-day 155 mile round trip ride to Denver, Dave was heroic in assisting Steve when he went flying off his bike in Colorado Springs.

"Dave was totally there. What a friend! He helped repair my bike and even though I only had a few scratches on me (from the tumble), his presence and encouragement meant a lot." explained Steve.

As if that was not enough, Dave even gave Steve a free mountain bike! During their meeting in Telluride for a relaxed bicycle ride in the popular ski town, Dave generously gave Steve a mountain bike he had obtained for free from his bike mechanic endeavors.

"Dave could have sold that extra bike he had on hand for $100 or so, but instead he gave it to me." explained Steve, "That's the kind of guy Dave is."

Dave also participated in the 2006 Drama Queen Day candlelight vigil by lighting a menorah (see photo below), and he is a regular visitor of the ColoradoGuy forums under the name of "Radial Spokes". If elected, Dave would be the first Hair Consultant of Hispanic descent.

Dave Ortiz's Official Press Release

"I, David Ortiz am announcing my candidacy for Hair Consultant 2006. I understand that this is a position requiring regular communication, advice and some knowledge to Steve G concerning maintenence of his long hair. This may include advice during/after various outdoor activities, which may affect the look and condition of his long curly locks."

"I feel qualified to take on this prestigious position, and have experience in hair as well. For example, in Jr High school orchestra class I had a friend ask me to cut his bangs for him on occasion. I was mostly successful but his mom sort of came down on me for one crooked cut made on a bumpy bus trip. And during the Beatles Era, I distinctly remember my dad telling one of his friends that 'his son was not going to wear hair like those hippies'. Several years later in high school and in defiance, I grew my hair below the shoulders. Maintaining that long hair took lots of time and care, but was well worth it. I almost cried when forced to cut it for a job, but keeping it short in the present day takes constant work too."

"The last thing I want to say is if I am elected Hair Consultant, I will do everything I can to encourage Steve with reaching his long hair goals."

The Hair Consultant election is held every year in mid-April, and this year's voting will take place on April 13-16, 2006. All people are welcome and encouraged to vote. Visit the 2006 Hair Consultant election page for more detials.