Wow. This is a bit depressing. Scratch that, a lot. According to the Chron, former directors of zoos around the globe gave the San Francisco Zoo a failing grade when it comes to caring for animals. Some of the zoo's problems are "severely outdated exhibits and animals that behave unnaturally." Take, for example, glaring issues as the African Savanna exhibit -- which lacks enough shelter or food for animals, according to Peter Stroud, a......

Ah, figs. We love the distinct flavor of these squishy, succulent fruits. And we're not alone. Mediterranean cultures have enjoyed figs for millennia, both fresh and dried. The fruit clearly had a special place in everyone's heart: Figs appear often in the art and literature of the region. But we just like the taste. Back in August, only a few farmer's market stalls had them, but now it seems like everyone's got some on......

A dear friend of SFist's is contemplating a career change to library science, and we couldn't be happier for him. How nice it would be to have a "connection" to move us up the online reserve list. Alas, his library talents will probably end up being utilized by the San Francisco Unified District of Schools. Now, if only we could get a pal at one of our fine local independent bookstores.... SFist Rita was going......