2011 Tour de France (in pictures)

Whether you like cycling or not there are some excellent pictures from the Tour de France. Click on the pictures above to see a few of them.

(HT: Tim Challies)

Toomer’s Corner attacked in senseless crime; suspect in custody

Updyke can be reached at (256) 307-1037

In what can only be described as a senseless crime, a “man” poisoned 135 year-old trees at Toomer’s Corner in Auburn, AL.

Toomer’s Corner is where students and other Auburn fans celebrate, among other things, big football victories by rolling the trees with toilet paper. My family has been doing so for decades. You could say it’s family tradition.

Harvey Almorn Updyke has been arrested and is being held on $50,000 bond.

Some members of the Auburn Family rolled Toomer’s Corner last night. War Eagle!!!

WTVM posted several quotes that sum up nicely my feelings on the issue:

Auburn, AL Mayor Bill Ham, Jr.
On behalf of the citizens of Auburn, I am deeply saddened by the news that someone has poisoned the Toomer’s Oaks. Over the years, these beautiful old trees have come to represent the Auburn tradition and spirit. While this unfortunate act affects our entire community, I encourage my fellow citizens to move forward in the Auburn spirit. I have the utmost confidence in our Police, and in the Auburn University experts fighting to keep these historic oak trees alive. Let’s all wish them the best as they pursue their work.

Jay Gogue, President, Auburn University
We will take every step we can to save the Toomer’s oaks, which have been the home of countless celebrations and a symbol of the Auburn spirit for generations of Auburn students, fans, alumni and the community.

It is understandable to feel outrage in reaction to a malicious act of vandalism. However, we should live up to the example we set in becoming national champions and the beliefs expressed in our Auburn Creed. Individuals act alone, not on behalf of anyone or any place, and all universities are vulnerable to and condemn such reprehensible acts.

Bobby Poundstone, President, Auburn Alumni Association
Thousands of Auburn alumni have fond memories of rolling the trees at Toomer’s Corner to celebrate sports victories, and the Auburn Alumni Association naturally supports the university in its efforts to safeguard the trees’ health. These mighty oaks have been through a lot over the years. We’re cheering for them.

Whatever happens to the trees, our response to the situation as alumni will be a measure of our commitment to the Auburn Creed. As an organization, we will continue to act and react in a manner that befits the integrity of our alma mater, and we trust that all Auburn alumni will do the same. I am confident the Auburn family will rally in response to this senseless act in a positive and meaningful way and, as always, the Auburn spirit will endure.

I heard (from someone who wishes to remain anonymous) a good idea about an appropriate punishment for Harvey Almorn Updyke:

Every night for the rest of his life, Auburn fans should roll his yard/trees with toilet paper.

Someone on Facebook commented on his potential jail time:

I bet he will look good in an orange jumpsuit!

The anonymous person mentioned above said he should not only have to wear an orange jumpsuit but he should be given no toilet tissue for the duration of his incarceration since he apparently finds it so offensive.

If you would like to send Harvey Almorn Updyke a note of encouragement in what must be a very trying time for him, his address is:

259 Silver Hill Rd
Dadeville, AL 36853

A get well card could also be appropriate as he might be mentally disturbed.

Be nice!

Banned Super Bowl Commercial – John 3:16



See story here.

(HT: Dan Phillips)

Auburn Football 2011 Recruiting Class

Congratulations to the Auburn Football 2011 Signees and welcome to the family!!!

Signed and Currently Enrolled – Jan. 2011 (Click on image to view bio)
Dismukes Highlights	O’Reilly Highlights	Rose Highlights
National Signing Day – Feb. 2, 2011 (Click on image to view bio)
Blackson Highlights	Bray Highlights	Coates Highlights
Denson Highlights	Florence Highlights	Frazier Highlights
Frost Highlights	Fulse Highlights	Garrett Highlights
Harrell Highlights	Landrum Highlights	Mason Highlights
Niles Highlights	Robinson Highlights	Sigler Highlights
Swain Highlights	Therezie Highlights	Uzomah Highlights
Westerman Highlights	Whitehead Highlights	Wright Highlights

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Auburn Tigers’ National Championship Post Game Locker Room Speech and Celebration