Columnist Stephen Tsai is spot on in using the stadium debacle as an example of the state of the state (“UH would like to see progress on stadium issue,” Star-Advertiser, June 11). Hawaii needs to put on its big-boy pants if it wants a university that is recognized as top tier. Unfortunate or not, football often defines a college (and state), and Aloha Stadium is a rusting beacon of developing-nation status. Power Five conference (and likely, most Division I) teams would have had a new stadium in place before the old one was condemned.

Honolulu County has nearly a million people. We can continue our reputation as a quaint, “island time” tourist destination, or we can join the 21st century.

Kevin Johnson

Kapolei

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