Columnist Muriel Stevens: Wal-Mart aids children’s foundation

Wednesday, Aug. 31, 2005 | 8:24 a.m.

National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCEMC) and Wal-Mart will join forces with Abbott's Ross Products Division to host the first Smart Parent/Safe Baby event, taking place Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Wal-Mart stores nationwide.

Parents and guardians attending will receive a free child ID kit that includes leading DNA technology. The DNA test requites no special storage and will keep for up to 14 years.

Also included is safety information for parents and guardians and a holder for an updated child photo. Arrive early to assure that you get one of the free child ID kits. The offer is valid as long as the supply lasts.

For more about NCMEC visit missingkids.com or call (800) THE-LOST. Wal-Mart and all Sam's Club stores have been associated with NCEMC since 1996. For more information about these programs visit walmartfoundation.org.

Cartier and Breast Cancer Awareness: The House of Cartier has partnered with the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, founded by Evelyn H. Lauder, to raise funds for breast cancer research and public awareness programs.

Cartier has created a new version of the Cartier Roadster watch especially designed to benefit TBCAF. The limited-edition Roadster will be available at Cartier boutiques and authorized dealers in October.

Priced at $3,800, the Roadster is made of stainless steel and features a pink dial, interchangeable straps and a bracelet that can be removed and reattached in a minute.

Purchasing this watch will help Cartier contribute $30,000 to the foundation. For more information visit bcrf.org.

Slow down for kids: AAA Nevada wants drivers to be aware that school bells are ringing, so take care.

Among the tips offered by AAA: Stop at all intersections near schools and residential areas; drive with headlights on, even during the day, so children and other drivers can see you; be aware of crossing guards and children on bicycles; look carefully between cars and other objects where children may not be easily seen; pay special attention near schools during morning and afternoon hours; and always stop for school buses that are loading and unloading children.

Stay focused while driving. Don't use cell phones while driving through school zones. It's just common sense.

Body + Soul: From the publishers of Martha Stewart Living comes Body + Soul, a magazine devoted to inner bliss, healthy eating and much more. This interesting approach to better living (they call it "whole living") is a bit touchy-feely, yet I thoroughly enjoyed the meditative walking article, the fresh fig recipes and the nutrition information.

The September issue also includes how to update your medicine cabinet with natural remedies. Just remember, natural remedies are not foolproof, so check with your doc before discarding.

Swatch Watch: The 2005 Fall/Winter Collection from the Swatch Group is a trendy mix of watches and jewelry. These new timepieces for men and women are beautifully designed and moderately priced.

The Bijoux (jewelry) line is a knockout ($30 to $70); Swatch plastic originals, still in high demand, start at $45. The new Skin (thin) line is $75 to $85 and the stainless steel Irony designs are $90 to $120. At Swatch stores now.