As usual, the strong (the athletically gifted) have conquered the weak (the environmentally concerned). A recent judge’s ruling gives the go-ahead for a controversial new UC Berkeley athletics center.
 

Environmental groups oppose the facility because it requires the destruction of dozens of oak trees. Since December 2006, protesters have been living in the trees to prevent the construction project. These literal tree huggers’ numbers have dwindled to just three as the university has employed guerilla warfare to get them out, cutting off their food supply and using cherry pickers to do just that – pick them off the trees.
 

Going by cute nicknames like "Dumpstermuffin" it seems hard to believe they wouldn't prevail.

But alas, the latest ruling struck down their efforts, meaning that the athletics center may soon be a reality. The protesters have a week to appeal the decision before the judge will lift the injunction.
 

In this time of trouble, here’s a little inspiration to raise their spirits: