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Help Me Decide

gkelly1
Explorer A

I can’t believe it.  Summer is almost over, and Halloween is just around the corner.  This will be my fifth Halloween as Southwest’s CEO, and little did I know what kind of impact my costumes would have.  In 2004, I portrayed mega-rock star, Gene Simmons of KISS, [asset|

I can’t believe it.  Summer is almost over, and Halloween is just around the corner.  This will be my fifth Halloween as Southwest’s CEO, and little did I know what kind of impact my costumes would have.  In 2004, I portrayed mega-rock star, Gene Simmons of KISS, [asset|aid=165|format=post_large_image|formatter=imagecache|title=halloween kiss.jpg|align=none|height=100|width=100]

and the year after that, I rode the range as Wild Bill Hickok.  [asset|aid=166|format=post_large_image|formatter=imagecache|title=halloween wild bill.jpg|align=none|height=100|width=100]

In 2006, I took on a nautical air as that rascally Captain Jack Sparrow, [asset|aid=164|format=post_large_image|formatter=imagecache|title=halloween gary.jpg|align=none|height=100|width=100]

and last year I was the demure Edna Turnblad from Hairspray. [asset|aid=163|format=post_large_image|formatter=imagecache|title=gary halloween_0.jpg|align=none|height=100|width=100]

My Halloween Elves are ready to get the 2008 “Gary” set up, and I need suggestions about who (or what) I should portray for Halloween.  It would be really nice if your suggestion doesn’t involve shortterm (and especially longterm!) body modifications like shaving my legs, although I will sacrifice for art—within reason.

So be creative and leave your suggestion, and it’s okay to color outside the lines—the good folks at Spirit Halloween stores will make your idea come to life.

188 Comments
Nikki6
Explorer C
I think Micheal Phelps is perfect! An honest, dedicated man! Shawn Johnson, the gymnast, might also be a good idea!
d_j_u_
Explorer C
I think Gary would look great as one of those guys in Blue Man Group! Isn't that Canyon Blue that they wear?
Anonymous1377
Explorer C
Gary - perfect outfit this year... BIGFOOT!
alyrhino9839
Explorer C
Okay Gary, this one's the best idea of all. Dress up to look like Howie Mandell, from Deal or No Deal. I can totally see you with the bald head and soul patch! Make the look complete by adding about 20 ladies dressed to the nines carrying metal briefcases. They could follow you around everywhere during the day. You could even get the Employees involved by playing the game somehow. There's lots of potential there for a really fun time!
Anonymous4135
Explorer C
Please not Elvis! Why, that would be sacrilege!
Aibell_Perez
Explorer C
One of our biggest events this year was Herb and Collen's retirement. What about dressing as one of them. Also think about: A bag of peanuts
Debbie_Carlson
Explorer C
Yes, I agree. A girl gymnast or Michael Phelps
Nancy2
Explorer C
If you decide on Gary Indiana Jones, you'll have to be prepared to sing "Gary, Indiana" from the Music Man. It's the song with hardly any "S's" in it! 🙂
Eric27
Explorer C
Maybe an Astronaught, or a green martian with antenas!
Anonymous3285
Explorer C
How about Capt America? In the spirit of the election year in November!
Mikey_Mike
Explorer C
I think an outfit that only a Highlander (or his mentor Juan Sánchez Villa-Lobos Ramírez ) can wear that clearly shows that "there can only be ONE!"
Anonymous980
Explorer C
Ugly Betty!
Jessica2
Explorer C
How about the Ben Stiller character in "Tropic Thunder"? That looks like it would be fun.
ace9576
Explorer C
THE TERMINATOR of high ticket prices!! Bradley
mmessina
Adventurer C
You would make a huge splash (ha-ha) as Michael Phelps--full body swimsuit, swimcap, goggles, and eight shiny gold medals, but it may not be work-appropriate, so, how about a proper Canadian Mountie in honor of our new friends at West Jet?!?
Alison2
Explorer C
I think it should be Indiana Jones or Sam(Pierce Bronsnan) from mamma mia the movie:)
Bill
Employee
Employee
Another vote for Indiana Jones from me! You'd look great in the costume....and no tonosorial alterations would be required. But one question...how good are you with a bullwhip?
Bry1
Explorer C
How about one of the "Cavemen" from the Geico commercials.
Katie_Davis
Explorer C
How about an Indian Tribal Leader in full dress? We are always encouraged to think outside of the box, well this would be. It normally takes about a year to make, but if you contact the right people in New Orleans they could make it happen in time.
Anonymous2585
Explorer C
Green is in! The INCREDIBLE HULK that is! Be green for conservation, recycling, and profits! Not to mention the strength it takes in 2008 to be a commercial carrier!
Anonymous1913
Explorer C
I think he should dress up as a ramper. Then see how many people recognize him and how many people treat him differently.
alyrhino9839
Explorer C
From the looks of it, Indiana Jones may win by a landslide, but, consider this, Gary: You could be Howie Mandell from NBC's Deal or No Deal. I can totally picture you looking super cool sporting a bald head and a soul patch! To top it all off, you could have an entourage of about 20 ladies dressed to the nines carrying metal briefcases. Make a game out of it with the Employees: Pick a case, win what's in it. You would definitely be "The Man!"
Linda_D_1
Explorer C
I think Gary should go as either Chewie or Darth Vader from Star Wars.
Heidi_Beaudoin_
Explorer C
In honor of our new code share with West Jet...... Dudley Do-right and Nell How about a hockey player....Like a Vancouver Canuck, complete with a mullet wig, teeth blacked out, black eyes. What ever you do it will rock.
Kricket
Explorer C
Being the CEO of SWA, the obvious choice would be the Red Baron.
Barak
Explorer C
I think Chewbacca Star Wars. Old character but always charismatic. Not taking anything from you, but you would make a great Chewbacca. No hair cutting required, but you better start growing it today. Second choice would be Indiana Jones. You would make a great Indiana Jones as well.
Toni_B
Explorer C
Gary, I can definitely see you as Indiana Jones, and Gillian and Nan could choose between Marion Ravenwood and Dr Irina Spalko, but I think this year you deserve to be our Super Hero, so Batman is my choice. (Then Gillian and Nan can be Wonder Woman and Cat Woman!) Can't wait to see you, whatever the choice!
Robert_Accettur
Explorer C
Considering your industry, and the current situation... what about a barrel of oil?
Anonymous2512
Explorer C
Gotta be HELLBOY!!!!
Richard8
Explorer C
How about RICKY BOBBY from Talladega Nights.
e3477
Explorer C
Gary- I Got It !! How about Lurch ( THE ADAMS FAMILY) , better yet, how about Herman Munster (The Munsters) ?? They both come from Fun-Loving Families..HaHa 😃
bblackee98
Explorer C
I vote for an early 1900's aviator-riding pants, tall boots, aviator jacket, goggles around the neck since aviation is becoming "new" again with all the changes in the industry
Candyce_-LAS_In
Explorer C
My wife in law thinks you would make a hysterical Hanna - Montanna I kinda like going back a while and think you would make an amazing Rhinestone Cowboy horse and all of course.
Kevin13
Explorer C
Gary Kelly as the LUV GURU---helping to spread the gospel of LUV, FUN, and GREAT SERVICE. "mariska hargitay"
weichinger
Employee
Employee
Okay, Michael Phelps is hilarious, but the outfit is a bit questionable!!!! I'm telling you, with the hat, the work appropriate whip, and the leather jacket...Gary Indiana Jones would be the best! Gillian, Shelley, and Nan could be his adoring students. Dr. Jones!!
Gabriel_Duran
Explorer C
I have the perfect costume considering we are the LUV Airline. You have to dress up as the Love Guru!!! You are the luv guru after all. Have fun.
e3477
Explorer C
Hi Gary, I got it!! How about LURCH (The Addams Family) or better yet, Herman Munster (The Munsters) !! They both come from FUN-LOVING FAMILIES !!! HAHA. 😃
JD2
Explorer C
I think you should dress up as Herb Kelleher
BC1
Explorer C
You've got to go Kimbo Slice of Mixed Martial Arts fame!
Amy_Lilley
Explorer C
Gary, I really think you would make a GREAT Iron man, or even Captain America! I love the "Gary Potter" idea, as if you stopped by my desk on the 3rd floor, you could totally see my affection for all things Harry potter.. but I still think you'd be better as Iron man. 🙂 He was tall, strong, honorable and definitely a born leader!!! Regardless, I can't wait to see what you go as! Last year was my first halloween at HDQ and I can't wait for this year!!! 🙂
chad-murphy
Explorer C
How about Illinois One? Just a thought...
Anonymous683
Explorer C
How about the Incredible Hulk? You're a big guy you could pull him off well!
Richard14
Explorer C
Sweeny Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street
Bill_R1
Explorer C
well, since your getting so many
    Indiana Jones
      suggestions...here's the hat to get you started: http://www.swaineadeney.co.uk/catalogue/poet_hat_indiana_jones_style/index.html
Danni
Explorer C
In honor of "going green", Have you considered The Incredible Hulk? GREEN is Keen!!
Beckie_in_West_
Explorer C
Let's lighten up! How about something fun like The Nerd from the play, complete with toilet papers stuck to your shoe. 2nd. suggestion would be Jay Leno or Lucille Ball.
N2ition2000
Explorer C
How about going as a PRIUS?
Tony_Crawford
Explorer C
MIB Men in Black. Easy Costume looks great and great symbol for being the only airline in the black and fighting to keep us out of the Red.
Karen2
Explorer C
We can't decide - either Hellboy or Hannah Montana - it's a tie!! Either one would be hilarious!!
Jim_Wilhelmsen
Explorer C
Michael Phelps for sure !!!!