Generally speaking, I am not the most observant guy on the planet.

I notice when my wife changes her hairstyle or color (which happens frequently). I noticed when they changed the formula for Diet Mountain Dew. And, I try to take heed of important developments like the closing of the Kilbourn Avenue Bridge, the opening of a new restaurant or publisher Andy Tarnoff's attempt to grow a beard.

When I walked into the office the other day, I noticed something different...

On the front door of the building, which we share with Continental Savings Bank, is the sign you see above:

"For the safety and security of all customers and employees, we kindly ask that you REMOVE hats, hoods, headgear, and sunglasses prior to entering our facility."

I did a double-take on that one.

Obviously, the bank is trying to make life more difficult for potential robbers. Taking your hat and glasses off at the door may not be as inconvenient as removing your shoes at airline security, but it is a sign of the times.

With the economy in a tailspin for much of the past year and bleak forecasts looming for 2009, I wonder if there will be an increase in bank robberies and other crime.

We've been hearing good things about reduction in violent crime in the city, but you wonder if the economic downturn will have an impact on society beyond having to remove our hoods, hats and sunglasses before banking.