Why is everyone always picking on me?

Well, there's a big security issue dominating the airwaves (NPR). News organizations (Boston Herald, OC Weekly) are talking about it, partly due to an op-ed piece submitted by AlliedBarton. The issue: Mall security guards are being misrepresented by Hollywood's portrayal of the "dopey" mall cop.

I know some of you saw Paul Blart: Mall Cop, which was released late last year. And if that wasn't enough mall security humor for you there is this weekend's Observe and Report, starring Seth Rogan, the hilarious guy from Knocked Up.

Do these movies portray mall guards in a less than perfect light? Yes. Does it harm the industry? Maybe. The public's view of security? Potentially. Is it funny? I guess you'll have to judge for yourself.

Hey, it must be a slow news day. I can imagine the budget meeting now.
Editor: Jimmy, what do you have for front page?
Jimmy: Well, we could lead with the pirate/hostage situation in Somalia especially since the captain being held hostage is from our great city.
Editor: Been done too many times. Next idea?
Jimmy: There was the job fair that stopped traffic yesterday. Nearly 10,000 people showed up.
Editor: Eh, that's not news — everyone knows were in the middle of a recession!
Jimmy: Well, there is that movie coming out this week about security guards.
Editor: That comedy that is like Paul Blart. Hmmm ... we could write an article on how Hollywood is picking on security guards. Perfect! Make some calls.

Hey, I don't condone making fun of any type of security guard. I have complete respect for them and the jobs they do on a daily basis, especially in llight of the fact that malls are an active shooter target. But let's be real: Every profession has been made fun of in the movies at one time or another. Journalists, editors, CEOs, police, you name it. We're are in the middle of some very tough economic times and we have to laugh sometimes and sometimes, that is going to be at someones expense.

We can't take ourselves too seriously. If we did, then we'd really be in trouble.