PHIL WIELAND: Taking care of the deer-ly departed

One of the joys of commuting along more-or-less rural roads is watching as the bodies of roadkills slowly swell to explosive proportions. (My apologies if you are reading this over breakfast. You might want to turn to the comics page instead.)

OFFBEAT: From film to faux tales, mythical fairies fascinate generations

Phil Potempa's daily entertainment news column.

The Cottingley Fairies Photograph No. 1 of Frances Griffiths Surrounded by Fairies in 1917

"The Cottingley Fairies Photograph No. 1" shows Frances Griffiths surrounded by fairies in 1917 in the family's garden in England.

Author brings 14th Century England to life in mystery series

VALPARAISO | It was while living in England that Ruth Foster’s author aspirations first began to take root.

Farrow & Ball Paint and Wallpaper Shade and Pattern

Founded by paint pioneers John Farrow and Richard Ball, Farrow & Ball has been around since 1946, earning a reputation for producing paint using only the finest ingredients and age-old production methods.

Queen Victoria's Signature on Parchment Document

England's famed monarch Queen Victoria's very rare and unique signature is a much-sought-after collectable.

Framed Queen Victoria Signature and Monarch Seal

A framed and preserved signature of British monarch Queen Victoria, captured on a parchment document declaring the rank of a bishop to archbishop status, including her seal, is a rare find valued at $2,000.

Parker recognized by school board

PORTAGE | Long-time Portage High School social studies teacher Robert Parker has another item to list on his resume — author.

OFFBEAT: 'Elizabeth Rex' rules Chicago Shakespeare Theater stage with passion

Phil Potempa's daily entertainment news column.

Valpo man hopes to calm London tourists during riots

VALPARAISO | A Valparaiso man is keeping a close eye on the London riots as he feeds crucial information to people traveling to the United Kingdom.

Japan through, England resurrected at World Cup

FRANKFURT, Germany | With a perfect two victories out of two matches, Japan has reached the quarterfinals of the World Cup with flair and a tournament-leading six goals so far. England was saved by a fighting performance to earn another day at the tournament.

OFFBEAT: Royal wedding leaves lasting impression around world

Phil Potempa's daily entertainment news column.

Samuel White, 1825-1908

Aga Cast Iron Kitchen Stove

The Aga 6-4 Series of cast-iron kitchen stoves feature a vintage look but showcase modern technology and convenience.

OFFBEAT: New stoves today get a vintage look with AGA line at Hometown Appliance

Phil Potempa's daily entertainment news column.

Shiny and Bright

Pierre Picton of England is shown with his four-wheel wonder, one of the original cars used in the 1968 film "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang." The car arrived in Los Angeles in December and it set for auction sometime in early 2011. Reports are it might be purchased by a film studio to do a motion …