Gov. Blunt back in mansion as renovations go on

COLUMBIA, Mo. (AP) -- Gov. Matt Blunt is back in the Missouri Governor's Mansion after a roughly six-week absence during renovations.

Blunt, his wife, Melanie, and their 3-year-old son had been traveling or staying at their Springfield home for a good part of the summer.

Work continues on the Governor's Mansion in Jefferson City. But Blunt said Friday at a Missouri Press Association luncheon that the first family moved back into its official state home on Monday.

The Missouri's Governor's Mansion is 137 years old. The renovations include a new heating and cooling system and repairs to the windows, trim, masonry, floors, roof and kitchen.

The repairs are being paid for by the state. Melanie Blunt also is leading an effort to raise private money for some interior furnishings.