Gems

Oklahoma has certainly produced its fair share of gems, flourishing in popularity throughout the nation. On the inverse, Oklahoma has produced some, well... not so gem-like characters. For some reason, Americans have a peculiar affinity for the off-beat and laughable, and to gift examples of such things to fellow Americans, we turn to the internet. One common internet database for us to share some of these interesting characters is People of Walmart, which just happens to frequently feature people from, you guessed it, Oklahoma!

People of Walmart 

This particular picture was cleverly captioned as "The Most Depressingly Aged Dr. Seuss Character." I truly feel bad about those who are unknowingly the source of entertainment for others; however, this particular ensemble clearly is the result of some conscious thought and planning. From the hair to the top/pants combination all the way to the toy(?) in her hand, this random lady meticulously worked to match everything.

 People of Walmart

This one I find incredibly intriguing. I would really like to know the inspiration behind this display, and what kind of activities make someone or something eligible of the title "Red Neck Dream Catcher." Please do not get the idea that this is a typical thing to see, I am probably just as confused by it as you are.

People of Walmart

My favorite part of this picture is the striking contrast between this lady's scantily clad body and the sharply dressed man to her left. Some things are only appropriate in certain situations; however, I am not completely sure that this can be deemed appropriate in any situation. I suppose I have to give her a round of applause for being so comfortable and confident in her own skin, so you go random Walmart lady!

We have addressed that Oklahoma has produced some peculiar beings, but as I mentioned before, Oklahoma is also home to many individuals who are compelling in a positive manner. I would assume that you have heard of most, if not all, of them and you may even be a fan. 

Here are just a few...

Brad Pitt
IMDb

Surprise! This iconic fellow hails from Shawnee, Oklahoma. Brad Pitt is an established actor and producer, commonly identified by his "chiseled good looks." He has appeared in a variety of movies including Fight Club, Troy, Mr. & Mrs. Smith, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, and more.













Chuck Norris
Official Home of Chuck Norris 

That's right, the man behind the jokes regarding his inhuman capabilities is from Ryan, Oklahoma, which I have actually never heard of... but the internet doesn't lie, so it must be true. Norris established his fame as a successful American martial artist, actor, film producer and screenwriter.












Carrie Underwood
Carrie Underwood

Winning the fourth season of American Idol launched this girl from Muskogee, Oklahoma to stardom. Her numerous music awards, including seven Grammy Awards; 17 Billboard Music Awards; 11 Academy Awards; and nine American Music Awards, prove that she is undeniably talented. Also, she just so happens to frequent PA on tour, in fact she is in Pittsburgh this Wednesday (2/17) and Philadelphia the following Monday (2/22).






  
  

Kristin Chenoweth
 IMDb

If you are familiar with musicals, you are certainly familiar with Kristin Chenoweth. She is from Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, which happens to be about 50 minutes from where I live. She has frequented both the Broadway stage and the big screen, but most of you would probably know her for originating the role of Galinda in the musical Wicked.












The All-American Rejects
All-American Rejects
To conclude this list of gems, here is one from my hometown: Stillwater, Oklahoma! It is a common assumption that Oklahoma only yields country singers, but The All-American Rejects are a well known alternative rock band with songs such as Gives You Hell, Dirty Little Secret, It Ends Tonight, Swing Swing, and Move Along. The members of this band met in middle school, which happens to be that same middle school that I went to. Additionally, Tyson Ritter and I have the same birthday... so I guess the mutual school system and birthday essentially makes me second-hand famous. Thanks, All-American Rejects!!