SUMMARY: During a flooding crisis, the narrator comforted themselves with the thought of using their anchored paddleboard. As the water rose, reaching hip-level and causing belongings to float, their brother arrived seeking refuge. Despite the chaos, the narrator felt at ease in the water. The situation took a turn for the better when Marty, a lifelong surfer at Indian Rocks Beach, showed up with his surfboard to help in the rescue efforts. What began as one rescue quickly expanded to include seniors and pets, with Marty being hailed as a local hero for his timely assistance.

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SUMMARY: A report from Florida Taxwatch warns of significant budget deficits in Florida, potentially reaching $6.9 billion by fiscal 2027-28 if spending cuts aren’t made. Although current revenues appear strong, the costs of K-12 education and Medicaid are rising. If lawmakers maintain their current spending habits, a projected $2.1 billion surplus could quickly turn into a $2.8 billion deficit by 2026-27. The report advises against treating next year’s surplus as an opportunity for increased spending and recommends limiting project funding to prioritize critical needs. It highlights required funding for education, healthcare, transportation, and the pension system.

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SUMMARY: Meteorologist Greg D provides a tropical weather update, highlighting Hurricane Kirk, currently a Category 4 storm, which may briefly reach Category 5 but poses no threat to land. Leslie is following a southern route, also expected to turn away from land. In the Gulf of Mexico, a broad area of low pressure will bring rain to West Florida on Sunday and Monday but isn’t likely to develop into a tropical system. Additionally, a system from the Pacific could enter the Southern Gulf next week, with uncertainties regarding its path and impact on Central and Southern Florida or potentially Cuba and the Yucatan.

ABC Action News tracks tropical developments in the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico.

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