Oregon and Washington's governors have hit back at local leaders who criticized the direction of the Columbia River Crossing project. Back in January, four local politicians, including Mayor Sam Adams, penned a letter saying the $3.6 billion freeway project would have "unacceptable impacts" on communities and "cannibalize funding" for other important projects ["In Other News", News, Jan 21]. Governors Ted Kulongoski and Chris Gregoire finally responded to the wave of concerns on Wednesday, February 17, in their own letter saying, "We feel strongly this project must move forward without delay." The governors plan to assemble an "expert review panel" similar to one used on Seattle's Viaduct and State Route 520 projects—which have created divisive debate in our sister city. SARAH MIRK

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A strip club planned for NE 33rd and Sandy snagged a liquor license on Thursday, February 18, despite protests from Laurelhurst neighbors. The site of the new Mynt Gentlemen's Club was previously home to La Fortuna Mexican restaurant, which neighbors say created violence, noise, and public drunkenness in their neighborhood. ["Fat Chance," News, Nov 26, 2009]. Laurelhurst neighbor Eric Fruits also dug up dirt on Mynt applicant Tracy Doss: A bar he managed back in Ohio caused an uproar when it hosted brutal man vs. bear wrestling. The Oregon Liquor Control Commission did not seem too concerned about this hairy past: They approved the license 4-1 with some restrictions. SM