What to Know
- Charges were dropped against Jussie Smollett, 2 months after he was accused of staging a hate crime attack on himself to further his career
- Rockland County declared a countywide State of Emergency relating to the ongoing measles outbreak
- Just before its 40th anniversary, the popular classic, 'Alien,' has been adapted for the stage by students at North Bergen High School
Wednesday, March 27, 2019
Happy Wednesday! It's going to be another sunny day today, but the unseasonably cold temps stick around again. Highs will be in the 40s. As always, get the latest forecast at nbcnewyork.com/weather.
1. All Charges Dropped Against 'Empire' Actor Jussie Smollett
All criminal charges were dropped against "Empire" actor Jussie Smollett in Chicago Tuesday, nearly two months after the actor was accused of staging a hate crime attack on himself to further his career.
The surprise decision, which was celebrated by Smollett and his legal team and blasted by the city's mayor and police department, came during an "emergency court appearance" where prosecutors not only dropped the charges against Smollett but agreed to expunge the actor's record.
Smollett maintained his innocence, saying after court that he has been "truthful and consistent on every single level since day one."
Local
Read more here.
2. NY County Bans Unvaccinated Kids From Public Over Measles
Rockland County declared a countywide State of Emergency relating to the ongoing measles outbreak — the longest outbreak since the disease was eradicated in the United States in 2000, according to officials.
A ban went into effect at midnight, Wednesday, barring anyone who is under 18 years of age and unvaccinated against the measles from public places until this declaration expires in 30 days or until they receive the MMR vaccination.
Those unable to be vaccinated for documented and confirmed medical reasons are exempt from the declaration.
Read more here.
3. NJ High School Adapts 'Alien' for the Stage, Goes Viral
Sci-fi fans rejoice!
Just before its 40th anniversary, the popular 1979 classic, "Alien," has been adapted for the stage by the students at North Bergen County High School.
The production had 24 cast and crew members and took about 7 months to prepare, according to art director Steven Defendini.
Read more here.
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