William Havins and Kyle McAlister
Recorded
July 16, 2020
49:21 minutes
0:00 / 0:00
Id:
ddv000038
Description
William "Bill" Havins (67) and Kyle McAlister (52) discuss Kyle's participation in local politics in Abilene, TX, faith and political philosophies, and William's experiences as a doctor treating Tuberculosis and HIV in relation to the Coronavirus.Subject Log / Time Code
BH shares some of his family history about being born in Abilene, having a diabetes diagnosis at age 5, becoming a doctor, partially losing his vision, and his son going to war in Iraq.
KM shares some of his personal history, and recalls the American Legion Boys State, attending Abilene Christian University, and going into broadcasting. KM speaks about his parents divorce at age 6 shaping him, and mentions his run for Abilene City Council.
KM asks BH about how diabetes has changed his life from a young age. BH and KM discuss local politics in Abilene and BH talks about how veterans are received when returning from war. They discuss "respect" as missing from politics.
KM speaks about his faith. BH speaks about Christian Ethics and Moral Philosophy, mentioning he is a fan of Adam Smith's writing.
KM talks about his role in local politics and his belief that more participation is needed. KM and BH speak about the accessibility of local politics as compared to higher levels.
BH tells the story of his grandfather leading an effort to keep a school open during the Great Depression, pointing to it as an example of "quiet selflessness."
KM and BH discuss the Coronavirus pandemic and the usage of masks. BH recalls being a VA Hospital intern when there was fear around HIV/AIDS and other illnesses, and speaks about the measures they take using science.
BH remembers working with Tuberculosis patients earlier in his career. KM and BH talk about fear leading to dissent and division, and they discuss people "carrying their weight" in society.
KM speaks about refereeing local soccer matches as a metaphor for participating in local politics, and they talk about society "throwing people away."
Participants
- William Havins
- Kyle McAlister