By Drew Adams
Murray, KY – Judges on a Chicago federal appeals court say even if a giant cross in southern Illinois is a religious symbol, that doesn't mean the state legislature was wrong to fund part of it. The 7th Circuit Court of Appeals heard the appeal of Rob Sherman involving a state grant used to refurbish the 111-foot Bald Knob Cross in Alto Pass. Sherman argues that using taxpayer money for the cross is unconstitutional. But judges say they don't see clear evidence that the state tried to violate the Constitution's ban on the establishment of a state religion. Judge Richard Posner says courts "can't do everything." A final ruling is expected soon however the court did not enter a decision yesterday. A lower court had dismissed Sherman's lawsuit over the grant.