**Urgent Update: Remembering the 1909 Cherry Mine Fire Tragedy**

UPDATE: Today marks the somber anniversary of one of the deadliest coal mine disasters in U.S. history—the Cherry Mine fire—which occurred on November 13, 1909, claiming the lives of 259 men and boys in Cherry, Illinois. This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by miners and the ongoing need for safety regulations.

On this day in history, 1775, during the American Revolutionary War, troops under the command of Gen. Richard Montgomery captured Montreal. This significant military victory marked a pivotal moment in the struggle for American independence.

In a series of historical events also observed today, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in 1956 that Alabama’s bus segregation laws were unconstitutional, a landmark decision that advanced civil rights in America.

Tragedy struck again in 1985 when a volcanic mudslide in Armero, Colombia, buried the city, resulting in the deaths of approximately 23,000 residents. This disaster remains one of the deadliest in Colombian history.

Moreover, on November 13, 2015, coordinated attacks by Islamic State militants in Paris shocked the world, resulting in the deaths of 130 people. This brutal assault marked the worst attack on French soil since World War II, prompting worldwide condemnation and a renewed focus on security.

More recently, the 2022 murders of four University of Idaho students in Moscow, Idaho, shocked the nation. The suspect, Bryan Kohberger, pleaded guilty to the murders in a deal to avoid the death penalty, receiving four life sentences without parole in 2025.

Today, we also celebrate several notable birthdays, including actor Joe Mantegna, who turns 78, and actress Whoopi Goldberg, who celebrates her 70th birthday. Their contributions to entertainment have left a lasting impact on audiences around the world.

As we reflect on these significant historical events, it is vital to remember the human stories behind them. The legacy of the Cherry Mine fire continues to resonate, reminding us of the importance of worker safety and the enduring impact of tragedy on communities.

Stay tuned for further updates as we continue to commemorate these pivotal moments in history.