Governor Steve Beshear mentioned Daniel Mongiardo for maybe the second time in as many years this morning: “Congratulations to Daniel and Allison on the birth of their daughter,” said Gov. Steve Beshear. “Jane and I look forward to meeting her and are happy to hear that mother, baby and father are all happy and healthy. What a wonderful Christmas blessing this is for the entire family.” [Press Release]

The November jobless rate rose in every Kentucky county. [H-L]

Thank goodness the top paper in Frankfort released a better story. [State Journal]

Washington has taken note of the latest U.S. Senate polling results. [Talking Points Memo & DailyKos]

Kudos to Governor Steve Beshear for taking care of his people. Today he announced that unemployment benefits set to expire on December 31 will be automatically extended to more than 32,000 Kentuckians. While he’s not responsible – Washington is – this is the kind of leadership Beshear needs to continue showing. [Press Release]

Guests for the December 25th & January 1st Comment on Kentucky’s year in review program are: Ronnie Ellis, Greg Stotelmyer and Jack Brammer. Tune in on KET! [Press Release]

Kentucky’s population is growing faster than many of its neighbors. [C-J]

Is Lexington’s Jim Newberry trying to lose re-election? [Barefoot & Progressive]

I believe Greg Stumbo should run for governor in 2011. And today he released a statement urging Steve Beshear to avoid furloughs. “I ask this for two main reasons: First, the House has not been receptive to this idea and, two, I believe it is unfair and imprudent to ask these workers to take on additional tasks while earning less money,” Speaker Stumbo wrote.  “The reduced services, and the predictable loss of morale, would far outpace any savings.” “We have a lot of tough decisions to make to get through the next two years, but I am confident that we can do it without putting additional burden on the backs of state workers,” Speaker Stumbo said. I’ve always believed Greg to be a solid leader and I am happy to see him finally standing up for himself. [Press Release]

The Balloon Boy’s parents are going to jail! [WHAS11]

Today Attorney General Jack Conway filed a petition for review with the United States Supreme Court in the Kentucky sex offender residency ruling. [Press Release]