Law Grad Helps Lead 'Tide for Toomer's' Fund-Raiser for Poisoned Auburn Live Oaks
Following news that a University of Alabama fan has been criminally charged with poisoning the live oaks that play an iconic role for Auburn University during the archrivals’ annual football game, other Crimson Tide supporters have stepped forward to try to undo the damage.
Law graduate Jennifer Hanson, who earned her bachelor’s degree at Alabama, is among those who are trying to raise money to help with the 130-year-old live oaks at Toomer’s Corner, near the Auburn campus, reports the Tuscaloosa News.
Feeling that the football rivalry between the two institutions has gotten “a little nasty” in recent years, she says she hopes her group’s Tide for Toomer’s Facebook page will help both sides focus on their shared tradition and respect for each other.
So far, the group has raised $12,000 in just a few days, reports CBS News. Tide for Toomer’s has been listed on Auburn University’s Toomer’s Oaks page and donations reportedly will go directly to Auburn.
While it remains to be seen whether the trees will survive, the Alabama fans’ effort is apparently helping heal the emotional wounds to Auburn supporters, according to the Tuscaloosa newspaper:
“I am a diehard AU fan and this act of kindness is a great show of real class and is deeply appreciated by all the true AU fans,” writes one Facebook user, Trent Martin.
“You won’t hear me say this often,” he continues, “but Roll Tide Roll.”
Earlier coverage:
ABAJournal.com: “Man Charged in Auburn U Live Oaks Poisoning; Trees Given ‘Very Low Probability’ to Survive”
