#Lance D. Collins
Ilokano series rooted in Maui sugar plantation history selected for international festivals
“All the Things I Leave You (Patawid),” an Ilokano-language drama series rooted in the legacy of Maui’s sugar workers, is gaining international attention following its world premiere at NewFest: New York’s LGBTQ+ Film Festival and a special screening at the International Nakem Conference at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa.
Maui attorney and storyteller Lance D. Collins receives award for peace and social justice
Maui attorney and cultural storyteller Lance D. Collins was honored with the Dr. Jose P. Rizal Legacy Award for Peace and Social Justice by the Knights of Rizal – Aloha Chapter on Nov. 1, 2025, at the Filipino Community Center in Waipahu.
Hawaiʻi Supreme Court issues opinion on governor’s use of emergency powers in affordable housing crisis
“More affordable housing is necessary to reduce Hawai‘i’s cost of living,” said Green in a news release. “My administration has been working hard to break down obstacles that can impede affordable housing development. The Supreme Court’s decision is another step forward as we continue this crucial work for the people of Hawaiʻi.”
Community coalition files amicus brief urging Hawaiʻi Supreme Court to reconsider 20-year foreclosure ruling
A coalition of community groups — joined by State Rep. Tina Nakada Grandinetti — today filed an amicus brief asking the Hawaiʻi Supreme Court to reconsider its recent decision, Bank of New York Melon v. White, that changed the statute of limitations for mortgage foreclosures from six years to 20 years. The coalition notes this is years after the underlying loan note is no longer enforceable.
‘Lahaina Ondo EP’ honoring Lahaina community released on CD and digitally
“Lahaina Ondo EP” honoring the Lahaina community has been released on CD and digitally. The title track, “Lahaina Ondo,” is a new bon dance song that honors the Lahaina community by recalling fond summertime memories of everyday life in Lahaina.
Akakū Upstairs hosts ‘My Partner’ film screening and discussion, Jan. 16
Akakū Maui Community Media kicks off its 2025 monthly Akakū Upstairs salon series on Thursday Jan. 16, 2025, with a screening of the award winning feature film, “My Partner.” There will be a followup discussion with Maui writer Lance D. Collins and Kānaka Maoli Director Keli’i Grace.
New book highlights community planning in Lahaina, Maui
“Whose Future?” draws solely from the public record to tell the story of how the community sought to shape its own land use future. This narrative gains renewed relevance in light of the tragic August 2023 fire, as West Maui faces complex decisions around disaster relief and rebuilding.
Lahaina Obon Festival to lift spirits and honor ancestors on Aug. 9
The Lahaina O-Bon Festival will be held on Saturday, Aug. 9, 2025, at Lahaina Jodo Mission (next to Māla Wharf). The evening will begin with live entertainment at 5 p.m., followed by Bon dancing starting at 7 p.m. This cherished event is a collaboration between three historic Lahaina Buddhist temples — Lahaina Jodo Mission, Lahaina Hongwanji, and Lahaina Shingon Mission — all of which were lost in the August 2023 fire.
Students from the Institute of Hawaiian Music at UH Maui College release a CD of new music for Lahaina
The Institute of Hawaiian Music (IHM) at the University of Hawai‘i Maui College has just released a CD of new music written and recorded by a special cohort of students. Entitled Ha‘ina Ko Wehi: Celebrating West Maui in Mele, the project was supported with a grant from the North Beach-West Maui Benefit Fund and originally intended to create new music for West Maui. However, given the tragic wildfires of Aug. 8, 2023 – occurring just two weeks before the group was scheduled to begin its work – the project’s focus shifted and many students chose to write and sing about Lahaina, its rich history, and their hopes for its future.
Lahaina film ‘My Partner’ to screen at Lahainaluna High School, March 28
Lahainaluna High School will hold a free public screening of “My Partner” on Thursday, March 28 at the Lahainaluna Sue D. Cooley Football Stadium. Gates open at 6:30 p.m., with the screening to begin promptly at 7 p.m.
Boys’ love film written by Maui author selected for L.A. Asian Pacific Film Festival
Hawaiʻi’s first boys’ love drama, “My Partner,” written by Maui’s Lance D. Collins, takes audiences on an emotional journey of self-awakening and cultural discovery.
Gov. Green considers nominations for intermediate court of appeals
Five nominees for Associate Judge for the Intermediate Court of Appeals have been announced for consideration by the State Judicial Selection Committee to Governor Josh Green, M.D.
Judicial nominees considered to fill Maui Second Circuit Court vacancy
Five nominees for Circuit Judge for the Circuit Court of the Second Circuit (Island of Maui) have been announced for consideration. Governor Josh Green, M.D. will nominate a successor to Richard T. Bissen Jr., who was elected Mayor of Maui County late last year.
Maui Charter Commission Meets Sept. 30 about Ethics & Boards/Commissions
The Maui Charter Commission will meet Thursday, Sept. 30 at 9 am to receive public testimony about 25 proposals related to ethics and board/commissions as part of its year-long review of proposed amendments to the County Charter, Maui County’s governing document.
