SUMMARY: A dynamic storm system is approaching this weekend, prompting an impact alert from Saturday into Sunday morning. High winds, heavy rains, and strong thunderstorms are expected, particularly in the Smokies, where gusts could reach 80 mph. Flood watches have been expanded due to potential heavy downpours. The severe thunderstorm risk is elevated, with warnings for damaging winds, hail, and isolated tornadoes. Rainfall may total 1 to 3 inches, leading to flash flooding. Residents are advised to stay alert, especially overnight, and ensure their alerts are activated. Weather conditions will improve by St. Patrick’s Day next week.

The afternoon weather report for East Tennessee on Friday, March 14.

Source

SUMMARY: The 1925 Scopes monkey trial began after Tennessee became the first state to ban the teaching of evolution in public schools. It was initiated as a publicity stunt to boost tourism in Dayton, Tennessee, where teacher John T. Scopes challenged the Butler Act, which outlawed evolution education. The trial, featuring prominent figures Clarence Darrow and William Jennings Bryan, became a sensational confrontation between science and religion. Although Scopes was convicted, the case sparked national interest in evolution and led to the defeat of subsequent anti-evolution bills. The debate over teaching evolution versus creationism continues to this day, influencing current educational policies.

Read the full article

The post The Scopes monkey trial took place 100 years ago, but the fight isn’t over appeared first on wpln.org

SUMMARY: The Sumner County Sheriff’s Office has utilized artificial intelligence to create a talking photo of suspect Nicholas Towns, wanted for felony evading arrest. The AI-generated video, posted on Facebook, urged the public to assist law enforcement, quickly gaining traction with over 100 shares. While many applauded the creative approach, some expressed ethical concerns regarding AI impersonation. Legal experts highlighted that no established guidelines govern such uses of AI by law enforcement, suggesting that this practice could set a troubling precedent. The Sheriff’s Office later apprehended Towns, but removed the AI video in favor of a standard mugshot.

The sheriff’s office used AI to make the suspect’s photo appear to share ways for the public to report him to law enforcement.

Source