News
Remembering Richard Roundtree: The Iconic Shaft
Remembering Richard Roundtree: The trailblazing Shaft actor and Black action hero whose legacy endures.
In a saddening turn of events, Richard Roundtree, the legendary actor best known for his portrayal of the iconic character John Shaft, passed away on October 24, at the age of 81. His manager, Patrick McMinn, confirmed that Roundtree had succumbed to pancreatic cancer after a brief battle, with his family by his side.

Richard Roundtree
Roundtree’s career spanned an impressive five decades, but it was his groundbreaking role as Detective John Shaft in the 1971 action thriller “Shaft” that truly established him as the first Black action hero. He continued to captivate audiences in the sequels, “Shaft’s Big Score!” and “Shaft in Africa,” as well as the short-lived 1973 “Shaft” TV series.
His legacy extended beyond the original franchise, with Roundtree reprising his role in the 2000 film “Shaft” alongside Samuel L. Jackson, and again in the 2019 sequel directed by Tim Story. Throughout his career, Roundtree showcased his talent in various other films, including “Se7en,” “George of the Jungle,” and “What Men Want.”
Television audiences also admired Roundtree’s work, particularly his portrayal of slave Sam Bennett in the acclaimed 1977 miniseries “Roots.” He continued to make his mark on the small screen with appearances in notable shows such as “Desperate Housewives,” “Alias,” and the 2022 season of Ava DuVernay’s “Cherish the Day.”
Roundtree’s impact on the entertainment industry cannot be overstated. He shattered barriers and paved the way for future generations of Black actors. His trailblazing career forever changed the face of entertainment, leaving an enduring legacy that will be felt for years to come.
As news of his passing spread, his co-star from “Being Mary Jane,” Gabrielle Union, expressed her heartfelt sentiments, describing Roundtree as the epitome of coolness and positivity. His presence in any room was magnetic, drawing people in with his charm and warmth.
Richard Roundtree’s contributions to cinema and television will be remembered and cherished. His talent and charisma will continue to inspire and entertain audiences for generations to come. During this difficult time, our thoughts and condolences go out to his family, loved ones, and the countless fans who mourn the loss of a true legend.
https://stmdailynews.com/category/entertainment
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Automotive
The Coolest Thing Made in Mississippi: Nissan Frontier
Exciting news! The Nissan Frontier has been crowned the “Coolest Thing Made in Mississippi” at the 2025 Mississippi Makers’ Challenge!
Manufactured in Canton and powered by cutting-edge technology, this remarkable vehicle showcases top-notch craftsmanship and innovation. Proud to celebrate our local talent! #NissanFrontier #CoolestThing #MississippiMakers #Innovation

CANTON, Miss. – The Nissan Frontier has earned the prestigious title of the “Coolest Thing Made in Mississippi” by winning the 2025 Mississippi Makers’ Challenge, an event organized by the Mississippi Manufacturers Association. This accolade highlights the Frontier’s exceptional craftsmanship and innovative features that set it apart in the competitive automotive market.

Manufactured at Nissan’s state-of-the-art facility in Canton, Mississippi, the Frontier showcases the dedication and expertise of the skilled workforce in the region. Each vehicle is meticulously assembled, combining quality engineering with contemporary design to meet the needs of today’s drivers.
Powering the Frontier are robust engines built at Nissan’s powertrain plant in Decherd, Tennessee, further adding to the vehicle’s impressive performance and reliability. The collaboration between these two locations reflects Nissan’s commitment to supporting local economies while producing high-quality vehicles that American customers have come to love.
The recognition of the Nissan Frontier as the “Coolest Thing Made in Mississippi” is not just a win for Nissan; it underscores the rich manufacturing heritage of the state and the remarkable talent within its workforce. As Nissan continues to innovate and evolve, the Frontier stands as a testament to what can be achieved when craftsmanship meets cutting-edge technology.
With this accolade, the Nissan Frontier solidifies its place as a top choice for adventure enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike, proving that great things can indeed come from Mississippi.
Link to the Nissan Press Release: The Coolest Thing Made in Mississippi: Nissan Frontier
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amusement and theme parks
Six Flags Magic Mountain Bids Farewell to Superman: Escape from Krypton

In a bittersweet announcement, Six Flags Magic Mountain has confirmed the permanent closure of Superman: Escape from Krypton, once celebrated as the tallest and fastest roller coaster in the world. The decision comes after the ride, which has been out of operation since September, faced an insurmountable challenge due to a “lethal dose of kryptonite”—or in less whimsical terms, the unavailability of necessary parts for refurbishment.
Magic Mountain President Jeff Harris shared insights with the Orange County Register, explaining that the ride was initially taken offline for routine maintenance. However, as the needed components did not materialize in a timely manner, the park deemed it more practical to close the iconic coaster permanently rather than leave enthusiasts in limbo.
Superman: Escape from Krypton was renowned for its thrilling experience, featuring two L-shaped tracks that soared upwards, promising an adrenaline rush like no other. Riders would be catapulted from a standstill to a blistering 100 mph in just seven seconds, reaching heights of 415 feet. It was a must-ride attraction for thrill-seekers visiting the park.
As for the future of the now vacant queue, station, and launch track, Six Flags has yet to announce any specific plans. However, fans of the park can take solace in the fact that the nearby Lex Luthor: Drop of Doom, which shares its tower with the Superman coaster, will remain operational and is set to reopen next month.
The closure of Superman has sparked a wave of sentiment among roller coaster enthusiasts, particularly on platforms like Reddit, where many have expressed their disappointment. For numerous fans, Superman was more than just a ride; it was a highlight of their amusement park experience.
Despite this loss, Magic Mountain still boasts an impressive lineup of 19 roller coasters, maintaining its title as the amusement park with the highest number of coasters in the world. Looking ahead, a new roller coaster is slated to debut in 2026, which will restore the park’s count back to 20.
Originally opened as Superman: The Escape in 1997, the coaster underwent a significant transformation in 2011, being rebranded as Superman: Escape from Krypton. This revamp flipped the ride vehicles, allowing thrill-seekers to launch backward while facing towards the ground, enhancing the heart-pounding experience of the descent.
Even though Superman has left the tracks, fans can still encounter the Man of Steel in other forms within the park, including on the Justice League: Battle for Metropolis dark ride and through character meet-and-greet opportunities.
As the park moves forward, the memory of Superman: Escape from Krypton will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of many who experienced its exhilarating ride. Magic Mountain continues to be a haven for roller coaster enthusiasts, promising exciting adventures for years to come.
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Community
Celebrating National Nutrition Month: A Heartfelt Tribute to Nourishing Seniors
On March 19, 2025, Tanner Terrace residents celebrated National Nutrition Month with a community event led by Diana Gregory Outreach Services, focusing on healthy eating and nutrition education for seniors.

March 19, 2025, marked a significant day for the residents of Tanner Terrace in Glendale, Arizona, as they came together to celebrate National Nutrition Month. The event, held from 2 PM to 3:30 PM, aimed to emphasize the importance of healthy eating among seniors and featured a special focus on enhancing their nutritional knowledge.
The gathering was organized by Diana Gregory Outreach Services, a non-profit dedicated to enriching lives through healthy eating. Over the years, this organization has worked tirelessly to provide access to fresh produce and nutritional education for low-income seniors, veterans, and vulnerable individuals in the community.
A Flavorful Presentation
The afternoon began with a lively presentation titled Food, Fun, and Fitness, led by certified nutritionist Debbie Polisky. The interactive session engaged residents in discussions about the benefits of balanced nutrition and simple ways to incorporate healthy foods into their diets. Attendees were eager to learn and ask questions, creating a vibrant atmosphere filled with enthusiasm for healthier living.
As a delightful conclusion to the presentation, each of the 100 seniors in attendance received a pre-packed bag of fresh produce from Fry’s Food Stores, complete with recipes and nutritional information. Watching the smiles on the seniors’ faces as they received these gifts was a heartwarming reminder of the impact of community support.
Generous Support from Fry’s Food Stores
At the outset of the event, Diana Gregory was presented with a generous check from Fry’s Food Stores. This contribution is vital for supporting Diana Gregory Outreach Services and its initiatives. Gregory proudly stated, “We have been serving the town for 16 years, and last year alone, we served over 30,000 seniors and veterans. This kind of support is critical to continue our mission.”
Pam Giannonatti, the Corporate Affairs Manager for Fry’s, emphasized their commitment to fighting food insecurity. With initiatives like “Zero Hunger, Zero Waste,” Fry’s aims to provide fresh food not only in their stores but also to those in need within the community. “Last year alone, we were able to provide over 16 million meals to hungry Arizonans,” Girardi remarked, highlighting the company’s dedication to wholesome nutrition and community welfare.
The Mission of Diana Gregory Outreach Services
Diana Gregory Outreach Services has a clear and impactful mission: to enrich lives through healthy eating. By addressing health disparities and championing holistic nutrition and fitness, the organization ensures that vulnerable populations have access to the resources they need to thrive. Their commitment is straightforward but profound: “We have a responsibility to ensure no veteran, senior, and their families in our community go to bed hungry.”
The culmination of the event was not just about handing out fresh produce; it symbolized a community rallying together to support its most vulnerable members. Flyers were distributed to the residents of Tanner Terrace, spreading awareness about future initiatives and encouraging participation in further programs designed to enhance healthy living.
A Community Commitment
As I observed this event, it became clear that initiatives like these serve a dual purpose: they enrich the lives of seniors by providing them with crucial resources and foster a sense of community among participants. For many seniors, events like these also offer an opportunity to socialize and engage with their neighbors, enhancing their overall well-being.
As National Nutrition Month concludes, the event at Tanner Terrace stands as a shining example of how community partnerships—between organizations, businesses, and residents—can work in harmony to create a healthier future for all. By continuing to support initiatives that prioritize nutrition, we can make a lasting impact on our community’s health and wellness.
In the spirit of National Nutrition Month, let us carry forward the lessons learned and the connections made, ensuring that every member of our community has access to the nourishment they need to lead fulfilling lives.
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