Today we observed a concerning act of negligence from someone we are taught to respect: Warden Mayor, of Game and Fish—perhaps now retired, but still a long time neighbor who knows of even Mr. Peter’s who built our house. He was walking his small dog off-leash during a time of heightened wildlife activity—specifically, prime coyote baiting hours—and right in the middle of local road traffic during driver’s education hours.

The leash hung loosely over his shoulder while his dog walked freely beside him. It reminded me all too vividly of my own experience walking with my cat in a similar way—until the day a coyote attack changed everything. That memory isn’t a warning I take lightly, and I expected better from someone who serves/served in wildlife protection.

If Warden Mayor can hear me now: Those of us still here, still trying to follow the rules, still carrying the trauma of loss, deserve better examples from those who once upheld the Law. Disregarding safety isn’t just careless—it’s dangerous for our pets, our families, and our roads. Especially when witnessed by child of God who is taught to look at you as a Leading Example.

Maricopa County deserves Leaders, Formal or Retired, who model the standards they enforce/practiced.