The New Co-CEO's First Month - Changes? Or Lack Of?

I intended to publish this post last Sunday, as Monday (September 1st), was the one month mark, of new management at Our Zoo.   Never got to proof reading, so of course I missed that goal.  It's ok, timely would have been good, but it's all still relevant, unless there was some major developments last week, when I wasn't there.  

As we head into the 2nd month, I think it's important for the new team to express what their plan is moving forward.  I know that it's not gonna be a huge game plan, but in my opinion, there should have already been initial things put in place, and in motion, that would better Our Zoo, and I have yet to see or hear about anything, except the welcomed restoring of Our Lion Fountain.  A big Thank You those responsible for that!

Some of the things on my list, are easily spotted on a walk-thru the Zoo.  Some of them, maybe comes from the experience of many years of fails.  These initial things, are things in my column of costing zero to little.  Little things that I think make a huge difference.  

I'm not going to bring up Animal Needs, and or Animals Needed, because that's a bigger part of Our Zoo's future.  As a huge part of that, I will say once again, the Panda Plan needs to be put to rest.  

I listened to the new COO/Interim CEO Cassandra Costello and CFO/Interim CEO Jeff Pace, during their first joint appearance before the RecPark Full Commission Meeting, Costello's first as a representative of the Zoo.  Not one mention of where the intention regarding the Panda Plan stands.  This is something that has been hovering since April 2024.  Something that is controversial.  Something that no logical person wants.  We all want to know, What current management's stance is on this.  In my opinion Our Zoo can not fully move forward into a thriving future with the burden and destruction that comes with acquiring Pandas.  There needs to be a final decision on this in the near future.

The video to the RecPark Meeting will be linked at the end.  I'm glad I remembered it on the day it took place (August 21st), as I've been anxiously interested to hearing words from them, in hopes there is some promising insight for the future of Our Zoo.

Aside from there being no word on shelving the Panda Plan, or anything else to satisfy my interest in regards to a plan for the future, or a morsel about changes, I took no issue with what was presented.  I did feel that Jeff Pace seemed alittle less confident than I would have hoped.  This was the first time I've heard Cassandra Costello speak.  I was glad to hear that as a native the Zoo has been a part of her young life, as well her children's.  I hope that means she brings with her some awareness to it's needs, specifically Our Orangutans.  I don't expect everyone to be as hypersensitive to everything as I am, as I have a long history of awareness, but I expect more people to be aware of issues, and to execute their fixes with haste.  Like something as simple as expediting the sign at Snow Leopards for example.  That is why I previously wrote that CFO Pace, should have, and hopefully did come into this position with a game plan.  I now also think if Costello has had the connection to Our Zoo she portrayed, she should have one as well.

In recent Zoo Newsletters, three things have happened, the introduction of Costello and Pace as Interim CEOs, and promotion for the upcoming ZooFest, and the delayed announcement of the new Gorilla Cecil's arrival.

I appreciate the brief introductions, but as someone who lived through seventeen years of mismanagement, I want more.  I want to hear more from Costello as she was brought on in what I interpret as a role top management role.  So, I am looking to her to fix Our Zoo.  The introduction indicated her initiative to engaging with staff, which if maneuvered optimally, will be a great asset.  I think her introduction should have extended to members of the public.  Many of us have lived through the Peterson years with upset and frustration.  I personally would like to hear some hope for Our Zoo.  I would like to hear what changes are being made.  I would like to hear what fixes are getting attention.  

An interview with the Chronicle should have been sought after the last year and a half of them blasting Our Zoo, they should at least give equal time to it's healing and future.  I would also like to have heard a couple updates in this past first month about a changes.  Those I know, have voiced the same as I did my first visit after the former Director departed.  I wrote in a post that there was a different vibe, a noticeable change in morale.  The majority of Staff I know have all said the same thing, changes are coming.  One enthusiastically saying, "be patient", one saying, "I'll believe it when I see it".  So, I am obviously not the only one waiting to see actual changes, or at least hear about a plan to implement changes.

I speak of hoping these Co-CEOs have plans in motion, even at the idea stage, that will see a better future for Our Zoo.  That said, I would have also liked to see easy fixes like those I've mentioned in previous posts, to have already had attention.  Our Zoo grounds should not have any visual fails right now, and unfortunately, as I walk the grounds, I'm still seeing issues.  Attention to those small issues, makes a difference.  

Before wrapping this up, I do want to circle back to two other earlier mentions, ZooFest and Cecil.

I took notice when ZooFest was announced via the Zoo's email Newsletter.  It has been a long-standing fail in my opinion, that this event is so exclusive.  It's open to everyone, but realistically is priced for a certain crowd.  While I understand the need for that, it seems deep pocket Donors continue to be a narrow-minded focus.  The previous administration, found no value in entertaining the many other fundraising ideas put forth to them, hopefully that will be one of the changes in the future.  

Another change I hope to see is a dedication to covering events.  I don't think there is a full understanding of the importance of this.  I'm already covering this in a future post in draft, but want to note it timely here.  In recent posts I called attention to World Orangutan Day and Lion Jasiri's Birthday, both event fails.  Since the day Cecil arrived, I have thought the Zoo has really done a disservice to themselves, and the fans of both SFZoo and Louisville Zoo, by not covering Cecil's journey here.  There has been one video of the Curators describing his transport, but no visual documentation.  The only other mention was in the Newsletter over two weeks after his arrival, noting quarantine and introductions.  Our Gorillas are popular and many are anxious for content on our newest family member.  I can also imagine Cecil's fans from Louisville are missing him and curious for updates.  It seems some kind of visual updates could have been made in the four weeks he's been here.  Big missed opportunity in my opinion.  Same fail as when so many of our beloved Animal Friends were taken off exhibit without any notice, and absolutely no further mention or updates about them.  Not only insensitive to those of us who cared about them, but bizarre to just erase them.

The Zoo needs to start doing better to keep the small amount who care Engaged and most important, Endeared.

Related Link:

*San Francisco Recreation and Park Full Commission Meeting

https://sanfrancisco.granicus.com/player/clip/50614?view_id=91&redirect=true

Link above is to the Video.  Launch and allow Roll Call to start, then choose, Item 6 San Francisco Zoo.

Last Week At The Zoo ... Hits & Misses ... Week 8.25.25

I planned to start my (hopefully) regular weekend post, This Week At The Zoo, yesterday.  Obviously I didn't get that far.  I finished grabbing pix for this post, late last night, and as you can see, it is now titled, Last Week At The Zoo.  

Last week started with a Facebook post that came through my feed.  I think it's the perfect happy vibe to start this post.  Coincidentally, it's International Primate Day, which makes it even more perfect.

Many of you have lived through the debacle that is the Zoo's Mad(agascar) project.  The sad and ridiculous allowance and execution of such a project by the previous administration, that has left a huge space in Our Zoo a disaster.  Eight Primate species were the casualties of this Donor Want and mismanagement that left our Zoo losing six species of Monkeys, one species of Ape, and displacing (rumoured to be on the way out) one other Monkey species.   One of those that we lost were Our Howler Monkey Family.  After spending three years off exhibit after the demolition of their home in the Primate Center, the Howlers were moved to Brevard Zoo in 2021.  The Family was moved to Denver Zoo in June.  I hadn't checked in with Mama Baya for several months, so only learned of this recent move from the FB post.

When I first saw it, of course initially drawn to it for the obvious, the beyond precious cuddle between a Howler Monkey and a Capybara.  Then I saw it was Baya!   Some of you may have already seen this, since it immediately went viral, but for those who haven't, enjoy sweet Baya with her new bestie Rebecca. ... If only Our Zoo would have thought to keep the Howlers and create a mixed species exhibit.  Ahh, hindsight.  I will also add, as I think I have before, Our Zoo is long overdue for some Capybara!

I recently posted about the new development in introduction between Camel Ben and Przewalski Horse Bajkit, when I saw them a couple weeks ago finally sharing yards.  I was unsuccessful saving video, but now have.  Here's a short clip, the longer version wouldn't upload as yet.  Very happy about this new friendship, and this larger area being used by both species.

https://youtu.be/KenZTo95pso

I was happy to finally catch Anteater Evita out in the Puente meadow this week.  I knew she had access on days when the pool was being filled, but had never seen her out.  I have long hated the fencing that contains her in a very small area.  I understand why it was installed, but there really is seemingly no longer a need for it.  That said, at the very least a personal sized opening could be cut into the fence that would allow Evita access to the meadow at all times, and to keep-out others while she retreats to her inner sanctum.

https://youtu.be/hrEAWX7tJ4M

I don't usually Zoo on Wednesday, but a change in my schedule had that be my last visit of the week.  Very happy to see something that has long been on my, What I Want To See At Our Zoo list, which is also a long running post in draft, materializing!

It's been years since Our beautiful Lion Fountain has been a working Fountain.  Big Fail when it was drained under the guise of water conservation, even though it used recycled water.  It's been a revolving sad case since.  First it was empty, kids running through it, which presented a potential hazzard when they tripped and fell.  It was then used as a giant planter, which had it's moments of pretty, only to be ripped up annually so the ZooFest tent could go over it.  Such a waste of money, as then it would be replanted.  This happened year after year.  I took photos of it too many times, to document my irritation, but never got that far.

I happened upon a thing of beauty, the Fountain soil was being removed!  I've confirmed, Our beautiful Lion Fountain, will once again, be a working Fountain!   I can't wait to see it's water glistening in the sunshine, that I hope Mother Nature will continue to bless us with for awhile longer.

Now if they can just reverse what they did to the the little pond in the Children's Zoo.  It was a wonderful Duck Pond, but had predator issues.  With some adjustments, including a predator proof night house, that could have been again used for Ducks.  There is an epidemic in Our Parks of abandoned Domestic Ducks.  Often they are in need of care that is just not available. I know, because I've rescued three in need and luckily found them Sanctuary homes, but there aren't many.  Providing them a home, would not only allow them care, but would be a much needed educational forum.  Domestic Ducks are considered Farm Ducks.  The proximity of this pond to Our Zoo Farm makes it ideal.

Anyway, the pond was drained and a sign noted closure for Water Conservation.  When filled in over a year ago, a sign noted it would be used to grow edible vegetation, but any likes of that quickly faded and it's just looked like not much for sometime.  

While on the Children's Zoo, another area that has sadly gone downhill, is the Butterfly Garden.  It is completely void of Flowers.  I'm not sure any of the plants in there are for Pollinators.  All I know is it used to be colorful, and cheerful with Butterflies and Flowers.  Now it's drab and brown.

Now, for the weeks visual issue notes.  The first thing I was hit with was the removal of Gorilla Zura's banner that leads to Gorillas.  Zura pased away in 2020.  She was one of my besties, so I really miss her, and seeing her face as I headed to Gorillas was always a beautiful thing.  

Well, now it's gone.  My heart sank at the vacant site where her beautiful face once was.  I immediately assumed it will be changed to add one of our new Gorilla Cecil.  It saddens me once again there is no respect for history, for passed residents.  Zura was a long-timer, Our Zoo was her home since the age of one, living thirty-eight years here.  There is absolutely no reason to have removed her banner.  None At All!  Very big Fail.

Today makes seven weeks since Jaguar Tikal passed away.  I immediately assumed that Snow Leopard Tikka who has been living off exhibit since Tikal's arrival, would most likely be moved back.  I was right.  She has been back three weeks and still there is no sign at that enclosure.  Big Fail.  

Every visit I see people standing there looking, wondering if it's occupied.  These little things matter.  I've said this before,  the Zoo has a computer, color printer, and laminator, there is no reason for any enclosure to ever be without signage, even if temporary.

Speaking of signage, the computer printed, laminated signs around Chimpanzees, regarding mourning, need to go, or be reworded.   Continuing to have signs up that say a Memorial for Maggie who passed away in March, is coming soon, is a continued show of disrespect to her memory.  

Finally, a follow-up to the Fail to have any mention of World Orangutan Day, on the actual day.  I wrote a post about this major Fail.  The Zoo decided to get it together and had their own O-Day, four days later.  My issue is that there was not even a sign for this important Species Awareness Day, on the actual date.  No sandwich board, no laminated sign, no nothing to educate visitors of the plight that wild Orangutans face.  And it was Free Day, the Zoo was packed!  Such a huge failure.  So, signs from the weekend event were still up at Orangutans on Monday. There were seven. No reason these info signs attached to the fencing could not have been up on the actual day.  This is the kind of thing, that I repeat, makes a difference

You know, I'm going to end this post here.  I had half dozen other things I was going to document in this post, but they are not specific to last week, and do fall into another post topic, so I think I'll do that.  Additionally I've had a post in draft for over a week, about the first month of new leadership, which is now today.  So, I'm going to get some lunch, take a rest, and tackle finishing that one to hopefully publish tonight.

Happy Birthday Jasiri! - A Bit About Our Legacy Lion's Family History

 Happy 10th Birthday Jasiri!

From First Birthday

As the closing of the day is upon us, I'm finally getting to this post.  I imagined it would have been published first thing this morning, but I got side-tracked.  First, I dozed off early last night, and when I woke at 2a, I started searching all my online efforts for photos, and got very emotional about Our Lion Family.  While I've Loved them all equally, I was especially overcome with emotion over the loss of Jahari, Jasiri's Papa.  Jahari aged very rapidly.  He seemingly went from the youthful Lion who enjoyed every enrichment Toy I made, to a Lion with visibly aging facial changes, like I hadn't seen before.  It was sad.  I finally fell back to sleep in tears after 4a.

Over the past week plus, I tried to get a confirmation on whether the Zoo would do anything for Jasiri's Tenth Birthday.  I don't usually leave the house on the weekend, but I would want to be there for that.   The last party I saw for him was his fifth.  It's been too long, but I'm used to the inconsistent and non-existent celebrations for Our Zoo Friends.  So, I decided I can't haul my cookies out there on a whim,  I'll celebrate his Birthday with recognition here.

Last weekend I was chatting on messenger with a former long-time Big Cat Keeper, as I had seen an amazing photo of four adult males that currently live in a coalition at Denver Zoo.  They are Our Lulu's Brothers.  I thought to make the post, in honor of Our Lion Family.  I have long wanted more recognition for passed Friends.  Lasting Tributes to those we've lost, especially long-timers.  That said, I still don't see a Memory Wall for Our Chimpanzees, some who lived at the Zoo fifty+ years.  What I did see last weekend was a photo of a beautiful mural a fan of the San Diego Zoo painted for three of their lost Friends.  I imagined what that would look like on Our Lion House for Our Lions.  Not only should they never be forgotten, there's a very real chance if the Zoo is successful in acquiring Pandas, we could lose Jasiri and Lulu.  

In pulling photos, I came across an old post I had already done of Our Lion History.   Already emotional, reading that didn't help.  So, I decided to do a shorter version this time.  For those who have been around the past couple decades, I hope you enjoy a bit of reminiscing, for others, I hope you enjoy learning about this Family, who has had a piece of my heart from the start.  As the Tree trickles down to Jasiri, I'll post photos of him through the years, leading up to this milestone Birthday today.

The Family Tree starts with what I call Our Starter Lions.  

Family Tree by Me

In 1997, Our Zoo received three pure bred African Lion Cubs from a breeding facility in South Africa.  Until this time, it was reported the majority of captive Lions were of African and Asiatic breed.  At the time of the Cubs arrival, the Zoo was also home to long-timers Topol and Sandy.   

Female Amanzi and male Tunya, arrived first, with female Kita joining them soon after.

Amanzi

Tunya

Babie Kita

I clearly remember their arrival, and spent much time visiting them.  So many wonderful memories from an experience I was lucky to have, and hold dear to me.  I also remember vividly, in 2003, when Lion Cubs were born.  I was there when Kita and Tunya's babies Kimani and Jahari first went outside on view.  I also remember the extreme feelings of sadness and admittedly anger, that their Mama had passed away shortly after their birth.  I unfortunately missed alot of their very early life, because of those feelings.

Kimani

Jahari

I would visit the Zoo regularly throughout the years, but it was in 2008, after suffering a loss, that I came to know Our Lions as individuals.  I learned "Leo", as I called him, was actually Tunya, and about his sad love life, something else I didn't want to relive while writing this post.  In the beginning, Tunya lived with Kimani, and Amanzi lived with Jahari.  At the end of 2009, the Zoo swapped females, and Kimani went to live at Tautphaus Park, and their female Sukari came to live here.  Sad to see Kimani leave, but Tunya was getting a girlfriend and that was a beautiful thing!

Sukari

Sukari and Tunya

When Tunya passed away in 2012, Sukari moved in with Jahari and Amanzi.  It was bittersweet, but nice to see her in a new family unit and not alone.  Additionally, seeing her and Amanzi together was special.  I had done Sukari's Family Tree upon her arrival, and learned she and Amanzi had the same Mama.  Something the Zoo wasn't even aware of.  These two sisters, were not only sister wives, but blood related.

On August 30, 2015, Sukari gave birth to Jahari's Son, Tunya and Kita's Grandson, and Amanzi and Kimani's Nephew.  He was named Jasiri, meaning brave or courageous in Swahili.

Jasiri made his public debut at two months old.  The first time I saw him, he waved!   

The following are photos through his first ten years.

In 2023, Jasiri got a girlfriend when female Lulu arrived from Lee Richardson Zoo.

Lulu

Jasiri

Hopefully Zoo Officials will not displace, or transfer out Our Lions, in favor of Pandas, and Our Legacy Lion Jasiri and his Lady Lulu, will continue to live their lives at Our San Francisco Zoo Lion House.

Video Links:

Jasiri, Babie Play

https://youtu.be/TSCjcNmHeE4?si=sKak3uAj8e_DYyJw

Jasiri, Sukari and Jahari

https://youtu.be/_eJggiL7n7k?si=sqkFAq-8ADKBGD5N

Unaware Mayor & Officials Still Pushing For Pandas - Unpacking Director's Resignation Media Attention Pt Three

I'm finally getting to finishing this post!   It's been in draft since July 1st, the day the media reported the former Director's retirement.  News sources also quoted the Mayor.  This is part of a two-parter, that is focused on two comments regarding the Zoo, made by Mayor Daniel Lurie in his statement at that time.  One was specific to "leadership", which I covered in a post last Sunday.  The other was specific to "Pandas", which is the focus of this post.

"Lurie, in a statement Tuesday, said that “under new, stable leadership, the San Francisco Zoo has the opportunity to reach new heights.  I want to thank Tanya Peterson for her service to the Zoo and our City.  I look forward to working with the Board and the new leadership to improve our Zoo and fulfill the rare and exciting opportunity to bring Pandas to our City.”

I have chosen to address this statement, because I think Leadership and Pandas are the most important initial factors, on the road to healing Our Zoo.

My bet would be that Mayor Lurie, Supervisor Melgar, Members of the Zoo Board, and RecPark, have no idea how bringing in Pandas will affect Our Zoo.

Do they fully grasp the long-term financial commitment the Zoo would have to take on?  What happens when initial spike in attendance drops?  

Do they have any knowledge about what bringing in Pandas will do to the Zoo?  The change in the landscape by taking over the Lion House inside and out, the displacing, and possible transfer out of Our Lions, the disregard for the Needs of the Animals currently living at the Zoo, and the continued neglect of other Needs, both in adding to the collection, and fixing issues on the property? 

When was the last time the Mayor, was at the Zoo either in his current position or as a visitor?

When were any of the Panda supporters?

The Officials who have the Authority to Stop the Panda nonsense, and yes I'm once again talking to the Mayor, the RecPark, and the Board, need to seriously open their eyes to the reality, not the fantasy. 

Speaking of RecPark, they are part of the Oversight panel that sits on the Joint Zoo Committee.  Has acquiring Pandas even been put to approval vote in that forum?  No, it hasn't.

Supervisor Myrna Melgar, has said she is “110% pro Panda” and fully supports bringing them to the Zoo".   I'd like to know What she bases her "full support" on?   When was Melgar last at the Zoo?   Has she seen the enclosure that houses Our Orangutans?

Supervisor Connie Chan, seems to be the only one who has spoken logically about the Panda situation.

In April 2024, the Chronicle published it's first of many expose style articles about Our Zoo.  Two days later, then Mayor London Breed announced she had secured Pandas for Our Zoo.  It was a week of madness.

Supervisor Chan initially made statements questioning whether funds raised for Pandas could also address deferred maintenance at the Zoo. 

The agreement by the Board if Supervisors to allow sitting Mayor Breed to raise funds for Pandas, stipulated that a portion of those funds would also need to be used for the Needs of current Zoo Animals.  Once Breed was out of office and former Zoo director Tanya Peterson took over raising funds, that became void, as any monies raised by the Zoo (Peterson), are considered general funds and use is dictated by Zoo management (again, Peterson).  With Peterson at the helm, the Needs of current Zoo Animals, specifically, but not limited to, Our Orangutans, would have never been met.

Additionally, Officials, and supporters within the Chinese community have touted "economic growth" and have used that as their cornerstone crutch.  When in reality, there are economic factors that have not been investigated and/or vetted thoroughly.

The biggest factor that relates to everyone's "growth" reasoning, has only been reported once.  

"Rebecca Snyder,  Chair of the Giant Panda Conservation Foundation, is quoted, "Snyder said the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, which administers permits to zoos,... does not allow them to keep any profit from pandas. Instead, it expects extra money to go to back to panda conservation in China."  A recent financial breakdown of sorts, reported such a kick-back.

I have tried many times to confirm this, emailing Snyder and the USFW, and asking specifically whether Zoos benefit from additional revenue brought in by Pandas.  I have gotten no response, which I consider suspicious. 

The most recent statement by Supervisor Chan is the most realistic...

“It is mission critical for the San Francisco Zoo to have a safe and healthy environment for the wellness of the animals and their caretakers,”  “We must have competent and transparent leadership at the Zoo to ensure this work is done before we can even begin to position ourselves to welcome Pandas to our City.”  

Chan's words from last year echo the same, "...if the Zoo needs to pause its Panda project to address financial and safety issues, “so be it.”

That said, how far will Chan use her voice to support that? There is a long list of Needs to address, will she champion for those Needs to be met?  When was Chan last at the Zoo?  Has she seen the enclosure that houses Our Orangutans?   She certainly knows about their plight, as I have provided her with documentation of their sad journey at Our Zoo.

My Mantra...

Our Zoo Needs to do better for Our Orangutans, before moving forward in any way to bring Pandas here.  And, the solution is NOT to transfer Orangutans or Chimpanzees out of Our Zoo to make that happen.  The Zoo is home to both Species and that should not change.  The Zoo Needs to maintain Chimpanzees in their home here, and build an appropriate home for Orangutans here.  NOT a new home for Lions, to accommodate Pandas.  Lions Stay, Chimps Stay, Orangutans Stay.  No Pandas.

It is completely irresponsible to saddle the Zoo with the financial drain, upset to the landscape of the Zoo, and displacement of current Animals, while trying to address all the Needs.   For what, a Want for a Species Our Zoo can't afford, has no logical place to be housed, and would take priority over current Animal Needs.   Hell No.  No Pandas.

When I read about anyone who is on board with bringing Pandas here before taking care of the current Needs of Our Animals and Our Zoo, I feel like they're under some kind of spell.  They are clearly uneducated because they do not come to the Zoo.  They just listened to either the former Directors illusions and untruths, or they just think, Ooh Pandas Great, without considering what that would mean to Our Zoo.  One might think, well, maybe they don't know they need to be educated?  Well, after the last year and a half, with everything that's come out about the mismanagement and ignored Needs, there just can not be anybody with any care that can say that they don't know that there are Needs to be met before the Zoo takes on something like Pandas.

Do any Panda supporters care?  The answer has to be No, otherwise the Panda Plan would have been stopped at the same time the former Director was.  You know who does care, Animal Care Staff, and concerned Members of the Public.

I hope the Animal Care Staff who are against the Panda Plan are speaking up to the interim CEO's, so they can convey it to the Board, and other Officials.  They all Need to understand what bringing Pandas here will do to Our Zoo.  

Our Zoo is supposed to be entering into a new era.  Will that era be one of Care?

Has any Official talked to anyone on the Animal Care Staff about Pandas?  The previous Mayor did not.  The former Director did not.  Members of Animal Care Staff allegedly appealed to the Board.  They obviously didn't care, because as recent as July 1st, the Board was quoted saying it remains committed to bringing Pandas to the Zoo.  

The current Board has proven they could not make good choices in Zoo Leadership, opting to keep and support the former Director, despite overwhelming evidence of her mismanagement, and calls for her removal.  They should not have sole final say in acquiring Pandas.

Once again, the Mayor, and the RecPark are in the position to Stop the Panda Plan.  

Hopefully, they will take the time to educate themselves on what bringing Pandas here will cost Our Zoo, not just financially, but in every way.  Our Zoo needs to heal and have a chance to mend, without being thrown into the turmoil of Pandas.

Related Posts:

*The Moral Crime Of Bringing Pandas To Our Zoo

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2025/05/the-moral-crime-of-bringing-pandas-to.html

*What Will Happen If the Panda Plan Goes Through

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2025/05/what-will-happen-if-panda-plan-goes.html

*There's An Alternative To Ruining The Lion House For Pandas

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2025/05/theres-alternative-to-pandas-in-lion.html

 ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Blogger's Statement

"Personal Opinions and Facts presented publicly are Not against the law or any rules. ... Censorship and Retaliation Actions in an attempt at Suppression are frowned upon by Healthy Societies."

For Full Statement see this post:

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2018/09/my-zoo-status.html

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

I used to use (search) labels, but too often forget.  I started noting "Hot Topic" in title, but fell lax on that.  Now I'm just going to add labels, keywords, etc., here at the bottom with hashtags.  Does it help in searches, who knows. 

#SanFrancisco , #SanFranciscoZoo , #Zoos #SanFranciscoZoologicalSociety , #SanFranciscoZooDirectorTanyaPeterson , #SanFranciscoRecreationAndParksDept , #SanFranciscoMayorLondonBreed ,

#SanFranciscoMayorDanielLurie

#AssociationOfZoosAndAquariums , #AZA , #SpeciesSurvivalPlan , #SSP , #Animals , #Wildlife , #Nature , #AnimalWelfare , #AnimalCruelty , #AndeanBear , #KomodoDragon , #Chimpanzees ,  #PatasMonkey , #Fossa , #Orangutans , #Barriers , #PerimeterFence, #Pandas #Bison

Palm Oil Free Donuts! - Are You Out There?

Day in today from peopling.  Lounging while the sun shines bright outside and warm inside.  Finally West SF is getting some Summer!

Still thinking about yesterday's Zoo Fail.  Within minutes had four Zoo ideas, that would benefit the betterment of Our Zoo.

Satisfied with that, about to pick a movie and further relax.  Scrolling through social media, the mention of Donuts sparked memories of a lost love.

No one might care about this personal and I think fun post, but it's my blog and I thought my AI creation came out too cute not to share.  And the Awareness is worthy.

I miss Donuts.  They will always be my favorite food.  Have not had one in many, many years because I can't find one without Palm Oil. ... If anyone knows of a place, please hip me to it!

Messenger AI created my fantasy in less than two minutes!  ... Funny note.  It asked me if the Orangutans were "running a secret donut shop in the Zoo" 😂!  And said my sign text was "perfect for Orangutan Conservation Awareness" 😊

I'd be in line at Palm Oil Free Donuts every day.

Read labels people.   This Killer Oil is in everything.   

Related Links:

Made these videos years ago for Awareness.

*Palm Oil Products Sold at Target ... Nov 2015

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=pUtvBur2f2Y&pp=ygURbGVvODExc2YgcGFsbSBvaWw%3D

*Palm Oil Kills - Halloween Candy - How Many Animals Died For Your Treats? ... Oct 2016

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=CMyioiZOjN0&pp=ygURbGVvODExc2YgcGFsbSBvaWw%3D

Happy World Orangutan Day! ... Our Orangutans Got Nothing!

Three minutes to midnight and I'm just starting this post.  I wanted it dated today, August 19, as it is World Orangutan Day. So, I cheated, published title, then reverted to draft.  Apologies if that's not cool, but I ran out of time this evening, as I spent a couple+ hours pulling videos to share, and getting side tracked watching Orangutan videos.  

When I went to the Zoo yesterday, I saw Zoo Friends doing new stuff.  I decided this week I might try to start a new regular post, This Week At The Zoo.  I have a post in mind that follows-up the last post, so wanted to to do that one first, then the week wrap-up.  I thought, it'll be fun, I can share Ben the Camel and Bajkit the Przewalski Horse are now sharing space, Raj the Snow Leopard had a huge cardboard sand box with wood dust from a tree trunk, and his daughter Tikka, had a huge play pen box.  Then there was today, and now we have this post instead.

Happy World Orangutan Day to Our Ollie and Amoi! ... This photo and video are from August 19, 2020, before they had their own enclosure.  They had some access to the Chimps yard, and got a wonderful celebration for their Species Awareness Day.

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=-jaXezBDzGM

But not today.  There was nothing for them, and there was nothing at their enclosure to educate visitors on the plight of wild Orangutans.  Big Fail!

There was a time many years ago when Our Zoo didn't do anything for Awareness Days.  Some where along the way, little by little celebrations starting popping-up, to the point where they were decently regular.  If it's a weekday, I always go, just in case, and hope to see some special enrichment fun.  I was surprised there was nothing.  Not even a sign stating the day, and some information about why it's important to recognize this Species on this Awareness Day.

I was disappointed and frankly pissed.  Not pissed because I didn't get to see some fun, I'm pissed because it's mass disorganization, that reflects badly on Our Zoo.  It was an opportunity to educate visitors about Orangutans, their plight, how to help, and about Conservation efforts.  Even larger than usual missed opportunity, as it was Free Day and the Zoo was packed.

I have high hopes for new management, so I don't want to be too judgemental, but I do feel like the Co-CEO's should have had this coordinated.  The CFO/CEO of the team, Jeff Pace, in my opinion should have had a game plan in place of what he thought the Zoo's Needs were as soon as they took the reins. He had his previous knowledge and at least a couple weeks before the former Director left. The COO/CEO, Cassandra Costello, gets a little bit of a pass because she probably doesn't know anything about the Zoo's Needs.  He's been there over a year I think and if he has risen to this position, then he should have identified Needs and prioritized what could be done with no money, what could be done with little money, and beyond.  I obviously don't know anything that is going on in regards to what their course of action is, I'm just saying I have a game plan, so I expect those who actually have the job, to have one.  Mine may be a fantasy game plan but hey, you got to be prepared in case you win the big Lotto and can buy the Zoo.  So while that's very far-reaching, I am just trying to say that we're now in the third week of their management, there's no reason why there couldn't have been at the very least a sign for World Orangutan Day. Making sure Awareness Days happen on the actual Awareness Day is essential for all the factors I already mentioned, and one that lends to what I think is desperately needed there.  I'm not saying what that is, because they have the gig, they should know.  

Someone texted me in the afternoon and said they are now planning to do Orangutan Day on Saturday.  Good Grief, that's just lame.  Today was the day and they missed it.  At least Ollie and Amoi will get party fun.

The Phoenix Zoo had it together and celebrated today.  Our Amoi's brother Wgasa, and his Lady Rayma, got Orangutan Day fun at their home there.

https://x.com/phoenixzoo/status/1958015974222827905

One of my big irks from the former Director's reign, was funds spent on Gardens and Art Installations.  It was often rumored some of those were allegedly funded by Donors, not money from the general fund.   I've heard doubts about that though. Regardless, in my opinion when you have Needs, your Wants have to wait.  I also take issue with Members of the Zoological Society who would fund Wants, before Needs in a facility that cares for Live Beings.  Anyway, the Canopy Installation is the latest unnecessary addition.  This in particular offends me.  It's a Rainforest set, with fabricated trees.  It's not that it's not well done, it's the slap in the face to the Orangutans that upsets me. The Orangutans were kept in caged tubes, and when they were finally let into Triple Grotto, there was no renovation FOR them.  No Trees to climb on, yet they watched fabricated ones being built across the path.   Sad and Shameful.

The Canopy Installation was open Monday.   I filmed a walk-thru of it today.   Commentary about the Installation, and my opinion about how it relates to the Orangutans.

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=_sTe9zZZWJ8

Related Post:

*Orangutans Can See Construction Of Fabricated Trees, But They're Not For Them ...   10.15.24

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2024/10/orangutans-can-see-construction-of.html

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Blogger's Statement

"Personal Opinions and Facts presented publicly are Not against the law or any rules. ... Censorship and Retaliation Actions in an attempt at Suppression are frowned upon by Healthy Societies."

For Full Statement see this post:

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2018/09/my-zoo-status.html

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

I used to use (search) labels, but too often forget.  I started noting "Hot Topic" in title, but fell lax on that.  Now I'm just going to add labels, keywords, etc., here at the bottom with hashtags.  Does it help in searches, who knows.

#SanFrancisco , #SanFranciscoZoo , #Zoos #SanFranciscoZoologicalSociety , #SanFranciscoZooDirectorTanyaPeterson , #SanFranciscoRecreationAndParksDept , #SanFranciscoMayorLondonBreed ,
#SanFranciscoMayorDanielLurie
#AssociationOfZoosAndAquariums , #AZA , #SpeciesSurvivalPlan , #SSP , #Animals , #Wildlife , #Nature , #AnimalWelfare , #AnimalCruelty , #AndeanBear , #KomodoDragon , #Chimpanzees ,  #PatasMonkey , #Fossa , #Orangutans , #Barriers , #PerimeterFence, #Pandas #Bison

Mayor Mentions No Changes In Management Structure - Unpacking Director's Resignation Media Attention Pt Two

Heading into the closing hours of the weekend, and once again I'm attempting to tackle finishing posts in draft.  Other than sharing stuff about the Animals, I don't want to blog anymore.  These posts in draft are a weight.  The post topics that swirl in my mind are a weight.  They are all long overdue for posting, for documenting.  Their hovering in limbo cause me anxiety.  I need to be done, but I press on, because I feel an obligation to document every last bit of residue regarding the former Director's path of destruction, and how it might possibly affect Our Zoo's future.  

Much may be a repeat of what I've said before, but I try to make every post stand alone, and particularly lately as most, like this one, are sent to City Officials.  Often written, specifically for that reason.  

July 1st, the day the media reported the former Director's retirement, news sources also quoted the Mayor.

"Lurie, in a statement Tuesday, said that “under new, stable leadership, the San Francisco Zoo has the opportunity to reach new heights.  I want to thank Tanya Peterson for her service to the Zoo and our City.  I look forward to working with the Board and the new leadership to improve our Zoo and fulfill the rare and exciting opportunity to bring Pandas to our City.”

For the purpose of this post, I want to focus on the Mayor's words regarding "leadership".  I'll attack the Panda situation in following posts.

Words from the Mayor sound like the only change will be in a new Director/CEO.  What about the malfunctions of the Zoological Society Board and the RecPark in this whole mess of the last seventeen years ?

What happens if changes, or at the very least the defining of these entities roles doesn't happen?  Will there be instances of mismanagement that are again ignored by the Board and RecPark, the City Department tasked with oversight?  Will there still be domination by suits over Animal Care professionals and other staff that have no voice, but yet have more knowledge?

Our Zoo is off to a fresh start, with the addition of a COO (Chief Operating Officer), Cassandra Costello, who is currently also Co-CEO (Chief Executive Officer/Director), along with the previously installed CFO (Chief Financial Officer), Jeff Pace.  Since she was hired before the forced resignation of the former Director, I will assume she will stay on after a new Director is hired.  Once that happens I hope she partners with someone on Animal Staff, considering she, like the former Director, have no experience in managing an Animal Care Facility.  That by no means devalues her, I have long thought it completely necessary for Our Zoo to have a top level "manager", another factor that the former Director did not possess.  It seemingly would prevent a dictatorship.  Another reason why I put forth the idea of a Cooperative style management, made-up of a team.  I think having formed this Co-CEO team is a start, and if someone from Animal Care was added to the team that would not only be ideal, but an asset.  It may even prove to be a winning combination, and negate the need for a new Director, at least for a period of time to see how effective that team could be.  Saving that huge salary would be a bonus and could go towards overdue Animal Needs.

That all said, it has been a thought of mine whether the Board will let her do her job, or find fault, even be resistant, to changes she might want to make, because their support for the former Director was overridden by the Mayor.  This is another reason why it's important that a restructure, and definition of roles within complete management (Board and RecPark), should take place.

I hope the Mayor will stay true to his words and be involved with Our Zoo through this transitional time.  I hope he educates himself on where the pyramid of power broke down.  Indeed, the former Director is to blame, but so are those who enabled her by ignoring their responsibilities.  Those people include the RecPark General Manager and Commissioners, and the Zoo Board Members, some supporters still seated.  I think it's important to document this as leaving extended management entities status quo, seems like continued negligence.  This is the time to get it right.  It may be the last chance Our Zoo has to thrive and survive into the future.

The Zoological Society Board proved to be biased in their blind support of the former Director.  Members have taken no active action to gain any knowledge about the Zoo, other than what the former Director told them.  The Zoo cannot have a Board who doesn't know anything about the facility it governs, that is not managing.  That is not caring.  They treat the Zoo like their private club, keeping their roster biased, even installing Docents on the Board in seats meant for Community Members.  Their officer election meeting is supposed to be open to all Zoo Members, yet is closed to those who have raised questions.

The RecPark acts like the Zoo is not even a part of their Department.  Three Commissioners sit on the Joint Zoo Committee, and have been useless in oversight, and dismissive of Keeper Staff when they have tried to bring attention to issues.  I have taken massive aim at them for their continued negligence in responsibility to the Bison Paddock.  They refused to include the Zoo in their Perimeter Fence project, saying they can pay for it themselves, even though they installed over a mile of fencing around the Botanical Garden, a department facility also privately managed, just like the Zoo.  They have never mentioned the Zoo's upcoming events in their newsletter.  They can't even put a Zoo pole flag near Bison.  

The Board and certainly the RecPark, especially after Commissioner Mazzola's bewilderment of the state of the Zoo, and offense at being questioned for RecPark's negligence, need to recognize their part in the state of Our Zoo.  These people need to uphold their responsibility to Our Zoo.

I had planned to reiterate a synopsis of my Restructuring Management post from last October, but it's just too much to tackle.  I'll link it at the end.  It's a decent read for anyone who cares to think about ways to make things better.  It details my opinion, ideas, thoughts, about what a healthier Management could look like.  I took time to really think about the structure, with fairness in mind.  Since I've learned some things in the ten months since I put those ideas out there, I may have another go at it.  It's still a solid frame, but can also be a fluid outline, that might benefit some tweaking.  Not that I have any say in the matter, but like other ideas I publish, at least I'm thinking about things and how to make them better for Our Animals and Our Zoo.

I have not read through it since I published it, but have thought about the structure.  I know I had something similar outlined, but for the sake of this post and for what, in my opinion is probably the most necessary component of a restructure, I'm going to put forth something.  In my opinion, at least two VPs on the Animal Care Staff, and at least one Senior Keeper (not Curator, but representative of the Keeper Staff), should be part of the Board, and be at least one of the three Board Members who sit on the Joint Zoo Committee panel.  While that is completely doable in the snap of a finger, under the current structure, not one Zoo Staffer is on the Board.  This means they have no say in what happens in the Zoo's Animal Care Dept, even though they, not Zoological Society suits, are boots on the ground in Our Zoo, an Animal Care Facility.  There is something very wrong with that.

Furthermore, if no Animal Care Staffer is allowed to sit on the Board, then they should at the very least have a seat on the Joint Zoo panel.  There must be a better balance in a situation that involves Lives, as Our Zoo does.  It cannot be such an unbalance of power, especially when the power side is an uneducated entity.   Case and point, the Animal Welfare Commission Report, that was initiated by two Joint Zoo members, who sought the opinions of four Animal Activists, all who are proponents of seeing all Zoos close.  The outcome was a nit pick list of issues that would require 100s of million dollars to attend to, and that's if every issue was even justified.  Point is, Animal Welfare representatives who sit on the Joint Zoo Committee, are so uneducated in Zoo's, that they exclusively sought out Activists, instead of including Zoo Staff.  And then, submitted it to the Zoo and Board, as some kind of bible.  I found it outrageous and irresponsible.

I tried to keep from rambling, but as we enter the era of new beginnings, many of my recent and subsequent posts could serve as the last documentations on all the past wrongs, fails, and frankly bullshit, from the last seventeen years.  Hopefully some of it brings Awareness and Enlightenment to those who can make the changes Our Zoo desperately needs.

NOW is the Time for Change. 

Change for the Betterment of Our Zoo.

Related Posts:

*The Change That's Needed To Save Our Zoo - Part Two - Restructuring Management

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2024/10/the-change-thats-needed-to-save-our-zoo_19.html

*The Change That's Needed To Save Our Zoo - Part One - Current Management

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2024/10/the-change-thats-needed-to-save-our-zoo.html

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Blogger's Statement

"Personal Opinions and Facts presented publicly are Not against the law or any rules. ... Censorship and Retaliation Actions in an attempt at Suppression are frowned upon by Healthy Societies."

For Full Statement see this post:

https://iamnotananteater.blogspot.com/2018/09/my-zoo-status.html

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

I used to use (search) labels, but too often forget.  I started noting "Hot Topic" in title, but fell lax on that.  Now I'm just going to add labels, keywords, etc., here at the bottom with hashtags.  Does it help in searches, who knows.

#SanFrancisco , #SanFranciscoZoo , #Zoos #SanFranciscoZoologicalSociety , #SanFranciscoZooDirectorTanyaPeterson , #SanFranciscoRecreationAndParksDept , #SanFranciscoMayorLondonBreed ,

#SanFranciscoMayorDanielLurie

#AssociationOfZoosAndAquariums , #AZA , #SpeciesSurvivalPlan , #SSP , #Animals , #Wildlife , #Nature , #AnimalWelfare , #AnimalCruelty , #AndeanBear , #KomodoDragon , #Chimpanzees ,  #PatasMonkey , #Fossa , #Orangutans , #Barriers , #PerimeterFence, #Pandas #Bison