Mount Shasta Ski Park's Planned Virgin Mary Statue Sparks Controversy

Over 2,000 Sign Petition Against Religious Icon, Arguing it Could Disrupt Community Unity and Natural Beauty of the Resort

Mount Shasta Ski Park in California plans to install a 20-foot statue of the Virgin Mary, sparking controversy among locals and visitors.
The statue, set to be completed by next summer, is a long-held goal of the resort's owners, Robin and the late Ray Merlo, and is intended to honor the beauty and spiritual power of the mountain.
An online petition against the statue's construction has gathered over 2,000 signatures, arguing that the religious icon could alienate members of the diverse community and disrupt the cherished environment.
Critics suggest the funds for the statue could be better used for community projects like a homeless shelter or detox facility, and some have called for a monument that respects the area's Native American history instead.
Despite the controversy, the resort and local officials maintain that the statue will be on private property and the resort has obtained all necessary permits.