Good morning, Honolulu.

Peggy, a 10-year-old rescue therapy dog using a wheelchair, visited Kahala Nui Retirement Home today to brighten residents’ days (her gentle presence brought comfort and smiles).

On Friday, UH Manoa held its Homecoming Concert and Alumni Makers’ Market at John Henry Wise Field at Bachman Hall, giving students and alumni a chance to come together.

The event celebrated the university’s homecoming tradition.

At the Fourth Annual Cost of Living Summit held at Prince Waikiki hotel, experts discussed how rising housing and energy costs have pushed inflation above the national rate.

University of Hawaii economist Carl Bonham noted that low wages make it hard for young workers and families to keep up.

Students at ‘Aiea High School are painting a mural for the Drive with Aloha campaign to educate about safe driving and prevent impaired driving.

The artwork will be unveiled Nov. 2 as one of 23 statewide projects aimed at boosting road safety.

UH Mānoa will co-lead a new Coffee and Cacao Innovation Lab under a five-year agreement with the U.S. Department of State, which awards $8 million to host the project beginning this year, partnering with Clemson University + other institutions to work with small farmers to boost crop resilience.

Tax Foundation data showed Hawaii charged a top 20% estate tax on estates over $10 million, while Washington taxed estates over $9 million — a lower exemption bringing more estates under tax.

The report, published earlier this week, highlights one of the highest estate tax burdens in the nation.

On Friday, Oct. 16, the EPA awarded the Honolulu Board of Water Supply a $109M WIFIA loan to support the Kalaeloa desalination project, which will design and build a facility to deliver 1.7 million gallons per day and reduce strain on groundwater aquifers in Central Oahu.

The Kuakini Breast Health Institute is now open to expand access to cancer screening and treatment during Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

The center aims to provide essential services for the community.

Kaleimaʻo Village, a new affordable housing project in Ewa Beach, nears completion with 126 pet-friendly rental units on Renton Road.

The first phase of 79 units will be ready in late October or early November + the remaining 48 units are set to finish by early December.

UH Giving Week is underway as Honolulu residents can donate to support UH sports; Athletics Director Matt Elliott said the donations will boost nutrition, academics + NIL for student-athletes and help keep local talent here.