Up, Up, And Away–Go Your Tax Dollars

"Holy wasted money, Batman!"  This is one of those unique stories that make you grumble and chuckle at the same time.  As reported by Yahoo News, it seems that an unemployment agency in Florida spent $14,000 in taxpayer monies to give superhero capes to those unable to find work.

So many puns...so little time, but you know that cash flew right out the door. 

Workforce Central Florida spent more than $14,000 on the red capes as part of its "Cape-A-Bility Challenge" public relations campaign. The campaign featured a cartoon character, "Dr. Evil Unemployment," who needs to be vanquished.   (POW!)

Florida's unemployment agency director asked Monday for an investigation of the regional operation's spending after the Orlando Sentinel published a story about the program. State director Cynthia Lorenzo said the spending appeared to be "insensitive and wasteful." (KAZZOOIEE!)

I think we have a new superhero--Obvious Girl!

Apparently, a more realistic total adds up to a choke-on-your-Kryptonite $73,000, when you factor in marketing, promotions, and $ 2,300 for the foam cutouts of Dr. Evil Unemployment.  (BLAMMO!!)

Can't you just picture a group of people hanging around job service in their work clothes and bright red capes?  I would give almost anything for a picture of that.

As for me, I love capes--always have, always will!  Thinking about losing the job and heading for Florida.  On Second thought, maybe I'll just scour eBay.

What are some big wastes of money that you can think of?