T.J. Lubinsky, the PBS pledge-program producer who created the doo-wop-themed pledge specials that proved enormously popular for public TV stations nationwide, has continued to create several PBS shows each year since striking out on his own with TJL Productions.

In "2012," doomsday is the draw.

In "The Road," the post-apocalyptic world is simply the canvas to see how people behave. Do they turn into thieves and cannibals, or do they "carry the fire" -- and therefore hope, love and decency -- with them in this extreme environment?

"LIFE ON MARS: SERIES 2." (2007. NOT RATED. ACORN MEDIA. $59.99. FOUR DISCS.)

To the depressingly short list of shows you wish had never ended, prepare to add the original British version of "Life on Mars."

Dene McGriff wants to make sense out of the last days -- the end of times. He has turned to the Bible. Others have turned to ancient calendars, prophecies and even movies.

All see the same message: The end is near.

The Bill Belichick coaching family tree has just endured a horrendous week, and we use the word "endured" liberally, because a couple of his offspring may be unemployed soon.

The shakeout from quarterback injuries left the Pittsburgh Steelers with good and bad news Tuesday: Ben Roethlisberger appears to be fine after taking a blow to the head, but backup Charlie Batch likely is done for the season with a broken left wrist.

Holiday travel and crowds can increase risks for colds, influenza and lesser-known conditions like deep-vein thrombosis.

But health experts have tips for not catching illness while catching the next flight to Grandma's house for Thanksgiving.