Walnut Creek news briefs

0 Comments | Oakland Tribune, Jul 16, 2008 | by Compiled by Elisabeth Nardi

Nordstrom plans Broadway Plaza expansion

In partnership with Macerich, which owns Broadway Plaza, Nordstrom Inc. announced Tuesday it intends to remodel and expand its Walnut Creek store. Work on the project has already begun.

Macerich spokeswoman Randy Brant said Nordstrom is a favorite of Broadway Plaza shoppers. The two-phase remodeling and expanding project will add 32,000 square feet to the existing store, bringing it to a total of 225,000 square feet. The new Neiman Marcus planned at the shopping center is expected to be 107,000 square feet.

Nordstrom's upgrades will include new designer shops and cosmetic cases allowing customers to touch the merchandise. In addition, Nordstrom will add updated dressing room finishes and new flooring, furniture, fixtures and wall treatments.

Nordstrom expects to complete the remodel in 2010. The store originally opened in 1984.

More information about the project is available at 925-943-5899 ext. 359. Details about Nordstrom are at www.nordstrom.com.

-- Theresa Harrington

Neiman Marcus up for discussion again

The Planning Commission will discuss the proposed Neiman Marcus store and Broadway Plaza parking at 7 p.m. July 24 in the City Council chamber, 1666 N. Main St. In addition, the city has released an environmental report regarding the development project.

The public can comment on the report through Aug. 4. It is available at www.walnut-creek.org. Click on Planning and Zoning, then choose the Broadway Plaza and Neiman Marcus links.

The City Council expects to vote on the project in September or October.

-- Theresa Harrington

Bicycle Advisory Committee needs members

The city's Bicycle Advisory Committee seeks new members. There is one vacancy on the nine-person board and another position will be vacant this fall.

To apply, fill out an application, found by going to http:// www.walnut-creek.org. Applications must be returned to the city by Aug. 29 at 5 p.m.

The Bicycle Advisory Committee advises and makes recommendations to the Transportation Commission on the policies for the planning, development and maintenance of bikeway systems. Seven members are appointed from the community at-large by the Transportation Commission with City Council approval. The two remaining members are filled by a representative from the Transportation Commission and another from the Park, Recreation and Open Space Commission.

At- large members serve for three-year terms and are eligible for a second term with the approval of the Transportation Commission. The only qualification for an advisory committee member is to either live or work within the City of Walnut Creek's "sphere of influence" the borders of which expand the city limits to include some bordering, unincorporated sections of the Contra Costa County.

-- Elisabeth Nardi

Miracullum Spa wins recognition

The U.S. Local Business Association has chosen Miracullum Spa to receive its "2008 Best of Walnut Creek, California" award in the spas category.

The association identifies award winners that enhance the positive image of small business through service to their customers and the community.

The spa, located at 1355 N. Main St., specializes in European face and body care using products created by owner Jolanta Omski. More information is at 925-943-6146 or www.miracullum.com.

-- Theresa Harrington

'Yappy Hour' for pets, owners at Wags and Whiskers

Pet owners and their dogs can enjoy a night on the town together during a "Yappy Hour" socializing event from 6 to 8 p.m. July 25 at Wags and Whiskers, 1528 Locust St.

The White Kitty Foundation, which helps find homes for needy pets, will provide appetizers. Quercus Winery will host free wine pours.

"This is a place that people can meet and socialize with other dog owners and share time with their dogs," store owners Erika and Dave Knolmayer said in a news release. "Instead of heading to a bar after work to relax, we offer a community place where you can come with your favorite furry pet, have some food and wine, and enjoy!"

The foundation is working with the store to promote pet adoptions for animals in Contra Costa County that need homes.

Wags and Whiskers was previously known as Annabelle's Barkery and Nutrition Center. It offers premium dog and cat food, treats and natural grooming products, along with an assortment of other pet- related merchandise. More information about the store is at 925 935- BARK (925-935-2275) or www.wagsandwhiskerspetboutique.com. Details about the foundation are at 25 472-0817 or www.whitekittyfoundation.org.

-- Theresa Harrington

'Bodywork Experience' comes to John Muir

The Health Medicine Forum will present "The Bodywork Experience," a day of sampling of more than 20 bodywork disciplines, massage styles and healing arts Saturday, July 26 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the John Muir Medical Center Ball Auditorium, 1601 Ygnacio Valley Road in Walnut Creek.

This event offers a unique opportunity to experience one-on-one sessions with different practitioners from a wide variety of bodywork disciplines.