June 7 set for topping of state capitol dome

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) _ The statue that will grace the top of the new Capitol Dome will be hoisted to its spot on June 7, officials announced Wednesday. <br><br>The bronze statue, titled ``The Guardian''

Thursday, May 16th 2002, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) _ The statue that will grace the top of the new Capitol Dome will be hoisted to its spot on June 7, officials announced Wednesday.

The bronze statue, titled ``The Guardian'' and sculpted by state Sen. Kelly Haney, D-Seminole, is 17 feet tall and weighs nearly three tons.

``It represents the Native American culture of Oklahoma, but it also signifies Oklahoma: tough, independent, heroic and courageous,'' Gov. Frank Keating said.

``This will be absolutely a magnificent statement on top of our Capitol building, celebrating our Native American culture.''

In order to give the public a chance to see the statue up close, it will be on display on the north side of the Capitol during the week preceding the dome-topping ceremony. Beginning June 1, Haney will be available to answer questions about the sculpture.

The public is invited to watch the dome-topping ceremony from a viewing area north of the Capitol, near the Plaza of the Flags.