When Attention Becomes A Trap

In leadership, attention is one of our most powerful tools. When used well, it motivates and strengthens the connection between a leader and their team. But when used excessively or selectively, it can unintentionally create dependence, resentment, and mistrust.

The Problem with Too Much of a Good Thing

Leaders often give sudden attention to someone with the best of intentions—recognizing a win, encouraging performance, or supporting someone with potential. Yet when that attention becomes profuse and sustained, it can cross a subtle line.

This kind of “attention bombing” can make people feel special yet obligated, creating an unhealthy dynamic where a team member feels overly concerned about maintaining approval. While it may not always be deliberate, this behavior often stems from insecurity or a desire for control.

How It shows Up

Leaders who attention bomb tend to:

• Shower a specific person with praise and flattery,

• Communicate more frequently and personally with them,

• Offer access to exclusive projects, meetings, or information,

• Include them in “inner circle” activities.

Initially, this attention feels positive, but it fades as quickly as it appears. The leader shifts focus to someone new, leaving the former “favorite” confused or deflated.

The Impact on the Team

Teams quickly recognize the revolving favorite, and over time, this behavior erodes trust. Team members begin to question the sincerity of praise, resulting in skepticism. People may compete for attention or disengage altogether, diminishing collaboration and morale.

Breaking the Cycle

To overcome this habit, the first step is self-awareness. True leadership isn’t about intensity—it’s about consistency. A few ways to recalibrate:

• Distribute attention evenly and intentionally.

• Limit how much focus you place on any one person.

• Tie praise to specific behaviors or results.

• Rotate opportunities so everyone gains exposure and experience

By spreading attention and encouragement across the team, leaders foster an environment of fairness, trust, and shared purpose.

The Takeaway

Good leaders don’t “drop the bomb” on one person—they lift the whole team. The best leaders understand that consistent, balanced attention builds loyalty not to them, but to the mission and each other.

City Spotlight: Stillwater, Oklahoma

Stillwater Regional Airport (SWO) is owned and operated by the City of Stillwater and is one of only four airports in Oklahoma offering scheduled commercial air service. It is a strategic economic asset advancing Stillwater’s growth, competitiveness, and connectivity. Regional employers, major industry partners, and economic development organizations rely on SWO to support business operations, attract investment, and showcase Stillwater as a place to live, work, and grow.

The City has partnered with both the Stillwater Chamber of Commerce and Visit Stillwater, and together, have leveraged the airport as a key asset in promoting the community to industries and site selectors nationwide, supporting efforts to drive business expansion, tourism, and job creation.

SWO has long served as a key transportation asset for north-central Oklahoma and plays a strategic role in supporting mobility, economic development, and regional connectivity. Located between Oklahoma City and Tulsa, approximately 70 miles from each, the airport provides access to the national air transportation system through flights to and from Dallas–Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) on American Airlines. Service includes first-class and economy seating, supporting the travel needs of business, education, and institutional partners.

Beyond commercial service, SWO supports important community and economic relationships. Local employers, from advanced manufacturers to nationally recognized companies such as KICKER Audio, USA Rare Earth, and Kingspan, depend on SWO for efficient corporate travel, site visits, workforce recruitment, and regional partnerships.

The airport strengthens Oklahoma State University’s ability to recruit students, faculty, researchers, and athletic talent; supports travel for OSU Athletics, academic programs, and visitors; and houses the Ray and Linda Booker OSU Flight Center, reinforcing Stillwater’s role as a hub for higher education, aviation education, events, and workforce development that drive local economic activity.

As Stillwater continues to see growth in industry and workforce development, reliable commercial air service remains an important tool in supporting business recruitment, employee travel, training opportunities, and regional partnerships. These partnerships reflect how municipal airport infrastructure can extend benefits beyond air service alone.

Operational efficiency and accessibility, and safety and security remain central to the airport’s function. Free parking and short security lines contribute to a streamlined passenger experience, while ground transportation options, such as the OSU-Stillwater Community Transit System, ride-share, and on-site car rentals support connectivity upon arrival.

Looking ahead, construction is well underway on a new terminal scheduled to open in August 2026, which will also align with the 10th anniversary of our partnership with American Airlines. The facility will expand capacity, improve functionality, and provide a world-class travel experience, support further economic growth, and position SWO to continue serving the region’s evolving transportation and air travel needs.

Stillwater Regional Airport is under the leadership of Director Kellie Reed. Learn more at flystillwaterok.com.

OMAG In Action (Volume 16)

OMAG's Police Liability Update (November 2025)

OMAG In Action (Volume 15)

OMAG in Action: The Halloween Edition (interactive)

OMAG in Action - Interactive Story

The Halloween Edition

Out-of-this-world coverage. Tap Next to begin the mission.

Mission Briefing: Landing on a Fractured World

Welcome to this Halloween edition of OMAG in Action! Every year, we like to add a creative twist to the season. Last year, we guided you down the yellow brick road of Oz. This year, we’ve traveled across the stars, inspired by OMAG’s space-themed booth at the OML Conference. Our story begins when Bison I, the starship crewed by Oklahoma’s municipalities, received a distress signal from a fractured city on the outer rim. Its infrastructure was failing, its systems collapsing, and its people had nearly lost hope. After a hyper-speed journey, Bison I descended through turbulent skies and landed in the city’s core. What we found was a city in crisis. Buildings crumbled, networks flickered, and trust among the people was fractured. The mission: restore stability, repair what is broken, and prove that collaboration has no boundaries, not even the stars. One by one, OMAG’s departments deployed to rebuild, each bringing unique strengths to the effort. Together, they breathed life back into the city. This is their story.

Claims: First Responders on the Ground

The moment Bison I’s landing gear touched the cracked streets, the crew could see just how dire the situation was. Towers leaned dangerously, pipelines hissed with escaping vapor, and frightened citizens crowded the edges of the landing zone. The Claims team was the first to step forward, moving through the chaos with calm determination. Their mission was clear: assess the damage, stabilize the situation, and give people confidence that recovery was possible. They documented collapsed structures, inspected every broken system, and coordinated quick repairs to prevent further harm. To the citizens, it felt as if invisible shields had sprung up around their homes, turning panic into hope.

This is exactly what OMAG’s Claims Department does for your municipality. When unexpected incidents occur, like a city vehicle accident, a broken water main flooding a street, an employee injury, or even a major liability claim, our team acts as your first responder. We move quickly to investigate, gather details, and make sure your community is protected every step of the way.

Claims is not just about paperwork. It is about standing beside you when something goes wrong. We handle the stress of the process so your staff can focus on running the city. From small property losses to major events that could rattle an entire town, OMAG’s Claims team helps municipalities get back on their feet faster.

Practical Support

• Thorough investigations of claims, so you know every detail is considered.
• Fair and timely resolution, easing the burden on your leadership team.
• Compassionate communication, because we know claims can be stressful.

Legal & HR: Restoring Order Among the Stars

When Legal and HR arrived, they found confusion and conflict spreading faster than any physical damage. Laws were unclear, leadership was divided, and workers lacked direction. The Legal and HR teams joined forces to stabilize the situation. Legal reestablished the city’s governance framework. HR rebuilt trust and morale among its people. Together, they restored structure and unity, helping the city find its footing once again.

That same partnership defines OMAG’s Legal and Human Resources departments. Legal provides guidance on compliance, policy interpretation, and risk management, helping cities and towns avoid costly missteps and maintain confidence in their operations. HR complements that mission by focusing on the people behind the policies, offering training, leadership support, and access to OMAG’s Employee Assistance Program. From navigating complex regulations to fostering healthy, effective teams, both departments work together to protect and empower Oklahoma’s municipalities.

Practical Support

• Legal: Guidance on compliance, contracts, and risk prevention.
• HR: Leadership and employee support, sample policies, and EAP access.

Underwriting: Mapping the Way Forward

With the most urgent dangers stabilized, the crew needed direction. Streets crumbled into chasms, power lines tangled across districts, and hazards lurked at every turn. The Underwriting team unfurled glowing star charts, mapping the city’s weaknesses and charting safe paths forward. Their careful planning showed leaders where to focus their resources and how to rebuild with resilience. What once looked like chaos began to take shape as a strategic map for recovery.

This is what OMAG’s Underwriting team does for municipalities across the state. Insurance can sometimes feel like wandering through a galaxy of unknowns, but our underwriters analyze every detail, anticipate risks, and provide coverage designed to fit your unique needs.

Practical Support

• Guidance on policy choices and renewals.
• Assessments of potential risks to keep your city covered.
• Thoughtful planning to ensure municipalities are prepared for both today and tomorrow.

Navigation Notice: Stay on Course with Claim Deadlines

• 90 days from Date of Loss to file claims for Auto Damages
• 90 days from Date of Loss to file claims for 1st party Auto, Miscellaneous, or Mobile Equipment Damages
• Property Losses – 1 year from Date of Loss to file a claim
• Tort Claims – All 3rd party liability claims need to be filed in writing within 1 year of the Date of Loss

Anything filed beyond that is deemed statutorily denied.

Insurance Services: Rebuilding the Communications Array

As the recovery advanced, citizens still felt disconnected. Without reliable communication, they struggled to know where to go, what to do, or how to access help. The Insurance Services team activated massive communication arrays, ensuring every neighborhood received clear signals of support and guidance. Suddenly, hope was not just whispered. It was broadcast across the city.

This is what OMAG’s Insurance Services team does for our members. They travel across the state to connect directly with municipalities, review policies, and ensure that you understand your coverage. Beyond coverage, they highlight value-added services and grants, making sure you are aware of every resource available.

Practical Support

• Policy reviews that clarify your options.
• Access to grants and programs that strengthen resilience.
• Direct communication that keeps you informed and supported.

Finance & Technology: Powering Up the City’s Core

When the crew of Bison I reached the city’s underground core, they found flickering power lines and systems barely holding together. Working methodically, the Finance and Technology teams brought stability back to the planet’s infrastructure, restoring energy flow, reconnecting data networks, and ensuring every district could function again. Their mission was not just to bring the city back online. It was to make sure it stayed strong long after the ship departed.

That same spirit guides OMAG’s Finance and Technology departments here in Oklahoma. Together, they serve as the engine that powers everything we do, quietly ensuring our operations are smooth, our systems secure, and our members fully supported.

Finance oversees OMAG’s resources with precision and transparency. Every premium payment, financial transaction, and investment is handled carefully so members can trust that their contributions directly support strong coverage and meaningful value-added services. Their stewardship allows OMAG to continue offering stable rates, financial strength, and the reliability our members count on year after year.

Technology, meanwhile, powers the digital systems that connect OMAG to its members. From maintaining the secure Member Portal to managing online access to coverage details, claims information, and training tools, the Technology team ensures everything runs efficiently. They also lead our cybersecurity initiatives, protecting both OMAG and our members from the increasing digital threats municipalities face. Through our Cybersecurity Grant Program and ongoing technology support, we are helping cities and towns strengthen their defenses in a constantly changing environment.

Practical Support

• Finance: Transparent and dependable premium payment support, ensuring every member interaction is accurate and efficient.
• Technology: Secure access to the OMAG Member Portal, cybersecurity grant opportunities, and continuous improvement of our digital systems.

Risk Management: Training a City to Stand Strong

Even with power restored and structures rebuilt, the citizens still worried about the next disaster. Risk Management gathered them in the city square, teaching safety practices, providing new equipment, and showing leaders how to identify risks before they turned into crises. With every training session, the people grew stronger, more confident, and better prepared for what lay ahead.

That is the essence of OMAG’s Risk Management team. We do not just respond when things go wrong. We help you prevent problems before they happen. From safety training for city staff to specialized courses for law enforcement and public works, we equip municipalities to face risks with confidence.

Practical Support

• Free safety training and professional development.
• Grants for equipment, cameras, and sanitary sewer services.
• Risk assessments and on-site support to address hazards early.

Mission Complete: A City Restored

The once-faltering city now glows with renewed life. The mission to restore the city is complete. Not just because the damage was repaired, but because the people now have the knowledge, tools, and confidence to protect their home long after the ship leaves orbit.

As the crew looks down from the observation deck, the view is breathtaking: a city transformed through teamwork, expertise, and shared purpose. It is a vision that mirrors OMAG’s mission here in Oklahoma, helping communities rebuild, grow stronger, and face challenges with resilience.

Back home, OMAG’s departments continue their work every day, not on distant planets, but in the cities and towns that make up our state. Claims ensures that when the unexpected happens, help is already on the way. Underwriting provides the insight and foresight that keeps your coverage strong. Legal stands beside municipal leaders to navigate complex statutes and compliance. Insurance Services builds lasting connections and ensures members understand every aspect of their coverage. Finance and Technology power the systems and tools that keep OMAG running with precision and security. And Risk Management equips cities with the training, resources, and support they need to prevent the next crisis before it begins.

Each department plays a unique role, but together, they embody the same principles that guided the crew of Bison I: collaboration, preparation, and service. That partnership is what allows OMAG to stand apart, not simply as an insurance provider, but as a trusted ally invested in every community’s success.

Every training attended, every grant awarded, and every claim resolved strengthens the fabric of our collective mission: to protect Oklahoma’s municipalities and help them thrive. Like the citizens of the restored city, our members are empowered, informed, and ready to face the future with confidence.

As Bison I lifts from the surface, we are reminded that every mission begins and ends with the same truth. Together, we are stronger. And just like the stars that guided our fictional voyage, OMAG will continue to light the way for Oklahoma’s cities and towns, no matter what challenges lie ahead. Happy Halloween, and thank you for letting us serve beside you, from the heart of Oklahoma to the farthest reaches of imagination.

News & Events

Oklahoma Festivals & Events

• Oct 17–18: Poteau Balloon Fest – Poteau, OK
• Oct 18: Guthrie Wine and Craft Festival – Guthrie, OK
• Oct 18: Harvest Spoon Chili Festival – Okmulgee, OK
• Oct 22–26: Fall-A-Days – Woodward, OK
• Oct 24–25: McAlester Oktoberfest – McAlester, OK
• Oct 25: Stigler Rod and Custom Fest – Stigler, OK
• Oct 25: Wewoka Sorghum Festival – Wewoka, OK
• Oct 25–26: Altus Balloon Festival – Altus, OK
• Oct 25–26: Heavener Runestone Viking Festival – Heavener, OK
• Oct 31–Nov 1: Red Autumn Art Festival – Sallisaw, OK
• Oct 31–Nov 2: Choctaw Powwow – Durant, OK
• Nov 1: Another 48 Hours Music Festival – Atoka, OK
• Nov 1: Cotton Festival and Chili Cook-Off – Frederick, OK
• Nov 2: Woodward Dia de los Muertos Celebration – Woodward, OK
• Nov 8: Edmond International Festival – Edmond, OK
• Nov 14–16: Beavers Bend Folk Festival & Craft Show – Broken Bow, OK
• Nov 15: Chigger Chase – Ardmore, OK
• Nov 19–23: Rock Fest – Davis, OK
• Nov 21: Lights on Eufaula – Eufaula, OK
• Nov 28: Enid Lights Up the Plains – Enid, OK
• Nov 29: Hometown Christmas – Waynoka, OK
• Dec 2: Chocolate Festival – Clinton, OK
• Dec 4: Home for the Holidays – Tuttle, OK
• Dec 4: Old Tyme Christmas – Tonkawa, OK
• Dec 6: Honey Festival – Minco, OK
• Dec 20: Merry Mitchmas 5k & 10k – Edmond, OK
• Dec 31: Ringing In at Redbud – Owasso, OK

Upcoming Dates

• October 23–24 · OMJA Conference · Shawnee, OK
• October 27–29 · Sanitary Sewer Expo · Enid, OK
• October 29 · MCO Workshop · Moore, OK
• November 5–6 · MESO Fall Conference · Shawnee, OK
• November 5–7 · OCEA Basic Code Class · Oklahoma City, OK
• November 6 · MC&T Training · Woodward, OK
• November 6–7 · OAMA Fall Conference · Midwest City, OK
• November 13 · New Officials Institute · McAlester, OK
• November 19 · OMHRP · OMAG Training Room
• December 3 · LocalGovU Train-the-Admin

Quarterly Riddle

I AM EVERYWHERE AND NOWHERE. I STRETCH ACROSS GALAXIES YET FIT INSIDE A SINGLE SPARK. I CONNECT EVERY PLANET, EVERY SIGNAL, AND EVERY HEARTBEAT OF THE STARS. YOU CANNOT SEE ME, BUT WITHOUT ME, NOTHING MOVES, NOTHING CHANGES, NOTHING LIVES.

Answer: Energy.

Back

Next

Addressing the High Cost of Bad Law Enforcement Hires

A recent article from Lexipol addressed the need to conduct adequate background investigations for potential law enforcement officers.

Recruiting and retaining quality personnel has always been a challenge in law enforcement. In today’s climate, making sound hiring decisions is more important than ever. Poor hiring choices can result in severe consequences—ranging from performance issues and low morale to legal liability and loss of public trust.

In the Lexipol webinar, “Why Law Enforcement Hires Go Bad—And What We Can Do About It,” panelists Gordon Graham, Lexipol Co-Founder, and Bruce “Coach Sok” Sokolove, Principal at Field Training Associates, shared insights drawn from a combined 107 years of experience in law enforcement. This was the first session in a two-part series addressing critical hiring failures and actionable solutions.

The True Cost of a Bad Hire

Both Graham and Sok emphasized that a single poor hiring decision can damage not just an agency, but the entire profession. Hiring someone with the wrong temperament or inadequate skillset can lead to morale problems, increased liability exposure, and reduced public confidence.

Graham stated, “Every time we see a tragedy in law enforcement—an excessive use of force, an officer-involved shooting gone wrong, a scandal—it almost always traces back to hiring. If we don’t fix recruitment, we’ll never fix the profession.”

Sok noted that many agencies fail to treat recruitment as a strategic function. Instead, they simply post vacancies and wait—what he calls the “post and pray” approach—resulting in candidates who may not possess the work ethic, judgment, or resilience necessary for police work.

Improving the Background Investigation Process

A major takeaway from the webinar was the importance of conducting thorough background investigations. Both panelists stressed that skipping or rushing this step can have devastating consequences.

Graham cautioned, “A dollar properly spent on a background check can save you a million dollars in lawsuits.” In several high-profile cases, officers with known red flags—DUIs, past terminations, or misconduct—were hired and later involved in major incidents.

Common mistakes in background checks include:

• Failing to contact previous employers: Verifying only dates of employment misses important context. Agencies must actively investigate performance and reason for departure.

• Overlooking past misconduct: Officers who leave under questionable circumstances should not be allowed to re-enter the profession unchecked.

• Neglecting to verify credentials: Candidates sometimes exaggerate or fabricate training and education. “Trust, but verify,” as President Reagan said.

Best Practices for Safer Hiring

To strengthen your agency’s hiring practices:

• Use a “Waiver for Lateral Hires” to access full personnel files. Graham notes that half of lateral applicants will withdraw when asked to sign it.

• Require mandatory ride-alongs to evaluate candidate fit early in the process.

• Vet all prior military and employment history, including reviewing DD214 forms for service members.

While uncovering disqualifying information may seem like a setback, it ultimately protects your agency from long-term risk and wasted resources.

OMAG Is Here to Help

OMAG offers tools and support to assist your agency with comprehensive background investigations. For assistance or more information, contact OMAG’s Law Enforcement Specialist, Kevin J. Katz, or visit our background resources page: https://www.omag.org/law-enforcement#background

Beyond the Split-Second: What Barnes v. Felix Means for Law Enforcement

On May 15, 2025, the United States Supreme Court issued the opinion, Barnes v. Felix, a case important to law enforcement.

Case Background:

Officer Roberto Felix stopped Ashtian Barnes for suspected toll violations. When Barnes restarted his car and began to drive off, Felix jumped onto the car’s doorsill and, within two seconds, fired two shots into the vehicle, fatally wounding Barnes. The car stopped shortly after.

Barnes’s mother sued under 42 U.S.C. §1983, claiming excessive force. Lower courts sided with Felix, applying the Fifth Circuit’s “moment-of-threat” rule — which judged reasonableness only based on the officer's perception in the split second he fired, ignoring what led up to that moment. Barnes’s mother appealed to the United States Supreme Court.

Supreme Court Decision:

The Court ruled that use-of-force claims must be evaluated based on the totality of the circumstances, not just the final seconds before the use of force. The Court explained that the totality of the circumstances may include the behavior of the suspect and of the officer in the lead-up to the use of force, such as whether the officer created the need for the use of force.

What This Means for Officers:

• An officer’s actions leading up to a use-of-force incident can and will be evaluated in determining the reasonableness of the officer’s actions.

• The reasonableness of the use of force depends on the full chain of events, not just whether an officer felt endangered at the last moment.

• Training and documentation must emphasize sound decision-making throughout the encounter, not just in moments of crisis.

Officer Safety Note (from concurring opinion):

Justice Kavanaugh highlighted the very real dangers of traffic stops, especially when suspects flee. He emphasized that officers must make split-second decisions under extreme stress — and courts should consider those pressures when assessing conduct.

Bottom Line:

How an officer handles the entire use of force incident, not just the final seconds of it, is central to any review of the use of force.

OMAG's Police Liability Update (August 2025)

What OMAG COVERS in a Cyber Attack—And What Your City Still Needs to Do

When a cyber incident strikes, every minute counts—and so does your coverage. Fortunately, OMAG offers up to $50,000 in Cyber Breach Response Coverage through MLPP Coverage K to help your municipality respond swiftly and effectively. But even with strong support in place, your city still has critical responsibilities in protecting itself from cyber threats.

Understanding OMAG’s Cyber Liability Coverage

OMAG’s Cyber Breach Response Coverage includes:

• Legal consultation

• Digital forensics

• Public communication strategies

• Vendor negotiation (including ransom guidance)

• Regulatory compliance and response guidance

This coverage can make a major difference in the aftermath of a breach—but only if the incident is reported on time. OMAG must be notified within 60 days of the incident to activate coverage. However, if remediation efforts have already started, that reporting window shrinks to just 7 days. Waiting too long may result in the loss of critical support.

What Your City Still Needs to Do

While OMAG covers many of the complex components of cyber response, municipalities still have essential responsibilities to help mitigate risks and maximize their protection. Here’s what your city should be doing now:

• Report the incident immediately once it’s discovered.

• Train staff to recognize early warning signs like phishing emails, system lockouts, or suspicious login activity.

• Back up data regularly and ensure backups are secure.

• Assign a cyber response lead or coordinator to guide your team in an emergency.

• Never attempt to communicate with cybercriminals on your own. Always contact OMAG first for assistance.

By taking these steps and understanding your responsibilities, your city can confidently respond to cyber threats—and take full advantage of OMAG’s powerful breach support.