Nativity is nixed, but . . . . . well you know the story

[Miles]

• "KOKOMO, Ind. - You won't find a nativity scene at the Howard County Courthouse, but you might spot a dinosaur or the Loch Ness monster.
  
  The lighted displays also include a fisherman, marching soldiers, a fire truck and lighted candles. Hanging from the roof of the courthouse are lighted signs proclaiming "Seasons Greetings" and "Happy Holiday."
  
  Dave Trine, president of the Howard County Board of Commissioners, said it also received requests to place a nativity scene on the courthouse grounds in downtown Kokomo.
  
  The request was considered, but "we're following the advice of our attorney," he said.
  
  Some civil liberties groups object to religious displays on public property."
  
  source

So, can anyone tell me why people are still trying install religious displays on government property? Is it just a matter of pathetic ignorance or a pathetic attempt to slide one past the law? If neither, then just what is it?