The League of Extraordinary Oklahomans

 Years ago, in a magical time known as the 80s, there was a popular toy line of tiny pink monsters, wrestlers, robots and weirdos known as M.U.S.C.L.E. figures.  They were small, collectible and, best of all, fun!  I used to have a big bucketful of them and made them take part in legendary battles in the sandbox.

Since everything old is new again, the M.U.S.C.L.E. figures of the past seem to have been the inspiration for O.K.I.E.S. figures of today.  

 Made by Flying Rabbit Studios, these little guys are made in the image of some of the most famous real Oklahomans as well as a few larger than life Okie statues.  Let's take a look at the line up of the "Stay Gold" edition:

Golden Driller - "Petroleum Protector"

You'll recognize this guy as the guardian of the Tulsa Expo Center.  He's become a symbol of the state and the impact the oil and gas industry has had on it as well as a popular roadside icon that attracts visitors from all over the world.

Bass Reeves - "The Real Lone Ranger"

Born a slave, Bass Reeves became one of the most legendary lawmen of the wild west by bringing thousands of criminals to justice.  His heroic efforts have been claimed to be the inspiration for the Lone Ranger.

Will Rogers - "OK's Favorite Son"

Actor, writer, and overall comedic performer Will Rogers is next.  Rogers may be the most famous celebrity to come out of the Sooner State.  Whenever you have some free time, drive across the state and count how many buildings, roads and institutions are named after him.

Wiley Post - "Pioneer of Aviation"

 "Adventurer" is probably the best description of Wiley Post.  He's best known for working in the wild blue yonder and is seen here wearing the pressure suit that he frequently wore on high altitude flights. 

Buck Atom - "Space Cowboy 66"

Tulsa's own roadside rocket man rounds out the list.  The former muffler man was installed along Route 66 a few years back and his distinctive design and accompanying gift shop has been a Mother Road "must-stop" ever since.

Not a bad lineup, huh?  I'm 100% on board with these little guys and am holding out hope for a Saturday morning cartoon series, additional actions figure waves (I've heard rumblings about a Belle Starr figure) including play sets and vehicles and, of course, a breakfast cereal.  Anything less is unacceptable.  Make it happen, Universe! 

Top 5 Things for Sale at Cloverleaf

Previously:

Top 5 Things For Sale at the Sam Noble Museum Gift Shop

Top 5 Things for Sale at Cherokee Trading Post

Cloverleaf, in Ardmore, has a reputation as being hard to miss.  Its bright pink exterior is surrounded by as much weirdo, amusement park decor that the proprietors could find.  Inside you'll find one-of-a-kind gifts ranging from hand made decor to antique chotchkies.  So let's pick some seemingly arbitrary items and rank them in a list...as you do...

5.  Giant Inflatable Pink Flamingo

           

It doesn't take visitors long to realize the store has a huge "pink" theme and a fun tone.  And nothing embodies these elements more than a giant inflatable pink flamingo.  It's both functional as a pool toy and works as a decorative conversation piece. 

4.  Oklahoma Hand Towels

At least I think these are hand towels.  What makes them stand out is the strong "Oklahoma" vibe and the retro design.  Like the flamingos (and a lot of other stuff in the store), they are as fun to look at as they are to use,

3.  Blue Whale Magnet Clip

There's probably a good chance that this item has absolutely nothing at all to do with the Big Blue Whale in Catoosa.  The Oklahoma icon isn't nearly as represented in the merchandise world as I'd like so I'm just going to imagine that this guy is our pal from Route 66.  If I'm wrong, don't tell me.

2.  "Oklahoma Curiosities"

I'm almost done with this book and I'll be sad when I'm finished.  It's got a ton of Oklahoma stories, information and facts that can help you find any number of interesting things in the Sooner state that are just a little off the beaten path.

1.  Fake Animal Heads

If you've ever wanted your place to feel like the den of a big game hunter but you just don't have the time to stalk and kill your own wild game then you're in luck!  The store has a several different heads to choose from and these don't have the creepy eyes that actual taxidermy usually has.

Not a bad haul for a roadside stop.  If your next trip to Ardmore lands around the holidays or a loved one's birthday, then now you know where to load up on flamingos, whales and wart hog heads.