New athletic director promises a fresh start

Ben Jay has begun his term as athletic director of the University of Hawaii, and his chore is significant following the "Stevie Wonder Blunder" that led to the departure of predecessor Jim Donovan.

Jay’s experience in financial books was impressive at Ohio State but his chore of overseeing UH football’s success in the Mountain West Conference is significant, following the worst season in years. His consideration as an "outsider" at Manoa "is actually a good thing," a person involved in the process told the Star-Advertiser’s Ferd Lewis. "He starts with a clean slate in most minds, which is what UH needs right now."

UH boosters, faculty and staff have generally favored Jay’s selection — which should help as UH embarks on a new road toward success.

His loyal customers thank him, very much

The late Lex Brodie — you can hardly say the name without hearing his trademark sign-off, "Thank you … very much!" — was a very savvy businessman, his tire stores serving as reminders of that success.

But those who knew him remember there was a side to the Kauai-born Brodie, beyond the buttoned-down look he presented in his TV commercials. He used to come straight from surfing to the studio to record his radio spots, still wearing his swim trunks and traces of sand.

Later he’d become known as the straight-shooting member of the state school board, where years of earning the public trust was put to use.

Not bad for the kid from Kekaha.