Columnist Muriel Stevens: Companies prodded to safe action

Wednesday, June 29, 2005 | 8:13 a.m.

The news that a National Week of Action was taking place this week in a dozen or more cities across the country as part of a Campaign for Safe Cosmetics was an eye-opener.

A number of well-known companies were being challenged to "cease aggressive lobbying against cosmetic safety legislation," according to the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics. The campaign also wants a pledge from major manufacturers that they make safer products.

Many of the chemical ingredients in personal-care products have been linked to birth defects, infertility, cancer and additional health problems. There's much more to this story. Consumers across the country are urging cosmetics companies to sign the Compact for Safe Cosmetics.

Nearly 150 companies have signed the compact, but many more signatures are needed. To learn more about the ingredients in the products many of us are using, visit www.safecosmetics.org. For information about the founding group and the campaign, visit the same site.

"Martha" calls for lousy cooks: If you or someone you know is a klutz in the kitchen, Martha Stewart wants you to be a guest on her new nationally syndicated talk show, "Martha."

Stewart is searching for the "Worst Cooks in America." Should you be so fortunate as to be chosen, Stewart will help transform lucky you from a "culinary catastrophe" into a meal-maker extraordinaire.

Here's how to nominate yourself or a friend: Send a three-minute-or-less creative videotape showing your failed attempts at cooking. Include any comments from your friends and family.

Submit entries to: Worst Cooks in America Contest, "Martha" MSLO Productions Inc., P.O. Box 1942, New York, N.Y., 10116. Or e-mail: WorstCooks@Yahoo.com.

The kicker: All tapes submitted become property of "Martha" and will not be returned. By submitting the tape, you agree to let "Martha" use the tape in any media, including on air and online.

My advice: Consult with your attorney, just in case you're better than you think. The rules state, "No professional performers!"

Sun-proof umbrellas: The tragic loss of her husband from malignant melanoma was all the motivation Lynn Rose of Marina del Rey, Calif., needed "to do something to help people."

What she did was come up with an idea for a sun-proof parasol. When she discovered the UV fabric, the company Soliel Chic was born. Rose is the company's president and founder.

The umbrellas block more than 97 percent of UVA and UBA rays and come in three colors -- red, bright yellow and white -- and in two sizes. Soleil Chic umbrellas are sold in the gift shop at the Ritz-Carlton, Lake Las Vegas and online at www.soleilchic.com or by calling (888) 296-7673.

Las Vegas Marshalls grow: Maternity clothes will debut at Marshalls stores July 21. The addition of hip, current maternity wear would please any mom-to-be. Included in the new maternity line are stylish jeans, Capri tops, sweaters and a variety of wearables for all occasions.

Safety tips from AAA: AAA Nevada is urging all drivers to be cautious while driving during the Fourth of July weekend. Use safety restraints with all passengers; no exceptions. Do not drink and drive.