Last night, on the TV show House, M.D. (i.e. what if Sherlock Holmes was a medical doctor in the 21st century?), a Mormon character appeared. House had a group of 40 possible new assistants, which he has to cut down to 3. This Mormon character has made the first cut, so he’ll be on the next episode. Not sure if he’ll become a regular or not.

Three interesting things, this character is African-American, went to BYU, and drank Tequila because House convinced him (after a small debate) he had to in order to save a patient. I’m pretty sure if I had been in a similar situation I would have walked off and decided not to take the job. But, for those who saw it, I’m curious what you thought.

These Australian LDS parents decided not to watch their son play a rugby league final Down Under because the game was on a Sunday. More power to them.

I’m reminded of the “Chariots of Fire” scene where the Scottish minister refused to run in the Olympics because the race was on a Sunday. The most interesting thing about that were the many discussions that ensued about proper Sabbath Day worship.

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There is a push going on among some aid agencies and in Congress this year to change U.S. aid policies. Until now, U.S. food aid to developing countries has usually involved sending U.S.-grown agricultural products to the affected countries. The problem is that such aid can put local farmers out of business. So many aid agencies, and some members of Congress, have proposed a solution that involves buying local food and helping distribute it rather than relying entirely on U.S.-produced food.

President Bush discussed the proposed U.S. change at the UN General Assembly this week.

This change makes a huge amount of sense to me. I’m wondering if the Church should follow suit and buy more locally produced goods, thereby developing local industry and helping local farmers, rather than sending most of its aid from the United States.

UPDATE: We got a response for Church humanitarian services. Read on.

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OK sports fans. It’s time for the T&S virtual marathon. M* has its team ready, but I’d like to hear from our participants to make sure they’re ready to run Friday and Saturday. The rules are below.

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One of my favorite things to do with my family on Sunday night is to go down to the temple grounds and visitor’s center.

My son loves to look at the reflecting pools, my daughter loves to sit in her stroller and enjoy the sites and sounds, and my wife and I enjoy the peace and solitude of the temple gardens.

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