More Green for Green Projects: Today the Dept. of Energy announced that $25.3 million in federal funding is coming to Kentucky to help create jobs, save energy and conduct energy efficiency audits. Veep Joe Biden said it would be up to local leaders to be accountable for investing the money wisely. Uh oh. Check the link for a list of where the money’s going in Kentucky. [Page One]

Beating the Tax: It’s time to stock up on alcohol. The new 6% sales tax goes into effect on April 1, so, you know, get to the liquor store this weekend.

Finding Pregnant Smokers: The state is touting its success in getting pregnant women in eastern Kentucky to stop smoking. The program found more than 1,000 pregnant women in nine counties who puff away with child. Of those who enroll in the program, one in four have quit. [Cabinet for Health and Family Services]

Nothing Doing: The state House adjourned without considering legislation to provide economic development incentives to attract a NASCAR race or to create a tolling authority.  House Speaker Greg Stumbo says he decided to play by the rules this time. [Courier]

Out of Work: Kentucky’s unemployment rate hit 9 percent, the highest in two decades. Ouch. [AP]

Soon to Be Out of Work: No one has less job security than Kentucky basketball coach Billy Clyde Gillispie. It’s really difficult to find anyone who supports him. As C.D. Kaplan writes, Billy will get his walking papers tomorrow.  C.D.’s got all the rumors, of course, since he’s with the Cards in Indy. [Score]

No Drinking Zone: It’s illegal to be drinking in the state Capitol building, but that hasn’t stopped legislators from holding alcohol-fueled parties there. Jake is naming names and says one elected rep has a stash in his office. Time to start searching credenzas. [Page One]