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- Close friends and sisters among nine skiers who died in California avalanche
- Peter Mandelson Arrested on Misconduct Charges: Latest Updates and Reactions
- Hungary vetoes €90 billion loan for Ukraine, prompting strong EU rebukes
- How we measure media bias and framing
- Nick Reiner, son of Rob Reiner, enters not guilty plea in parents’ murder case
- European Parliament rejects Patriots for Europe’s minute of silence request
- New York City Under Emergency as Massive Snowstorm Disrupts Travel and Services
- Peter Mandelson Arrested for Misconduct: What You Need to Know
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Close friends and sisters among nine skiers who died in California avalanche
5:07 am
Get you up to speed: Close friends and sisters among nine skiers who died in California avalanche
An avalanche on Castle Peak in California resulted in the deaths of nine skiers, with the Nevada County sheriff’s office reporting that recovery efforts were challenged by intense snowfall. The incident is noted as the deadliest avalanche in modern California history.
According to Shannan Moon, the sheriff of Nevada County, California, the group had attempted to leave early to avoid an impending snowstorm while on the last day of their three-day tour. Officials are investigating whether “there were any factors that would be considered criminal negligence” related to the avalanche, which is the deadliest in modern California history.
The Nevada County Sheriff’s Office is currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the avalanche to determine if “there were any factors that would be considered criminal negligence.” Shannan Moon, sheriff of Nevada County, stated that the group was on a “normally travelled route” prior to the incident.
What we know so far
Close friends and sisters among nine skiers killed in California avalanche | US News
Six close friends and mothers are among the nine off-piste skiers who were killed in an avalanche in California.
The avalanche hit on Castle Peak, about 10 miles (16km) north of Lake Tahoe, on Tuesday, but the recovery of the victims’ bodies took until Saturday as the search and rescue operation was hindered by intense snowfall.
Six of the victims were part of a close-knit group of friends who were experienced off-piste skiers, their families said in a statement, adding that they were carrying avalanche safety equipment.
The women in their 40s were named as Carrie Atkin, Danielle Keatley, Kate Morse, Kate Vitt and sisters Liz Clabaugh and Caroline Sekar.
Image: Kate Morse. Pic: AP
Image: Caroline Sekar with her husband, Kiren Sekar. Pic: AP
“We are devastated beyond words. Our focus right now is supporting our children through this incredible tragedy and honouring the lives of these extraordinary women,” the families said.
“They were all mothers, wives and friends, all of whom connected through the love of the outdoors.”
Image: Kate Vitt. Pic: AP
‘Best people I’ve ever known’
Tributes described the women as kind people and dedicated mothers.
Danielle Keatley, from the San Francisco city of Larkspur, “was warm, kind and exuded a special quality that drew people to her”, Larkspur’s mayor Stephanie Andre said.
Fellow Larkspur resident Rob Bramble added that she was “just a great mum”.
Image:Danielle Keatley. Pic: AP
Carrie Atkin, who lived in Lake Tahoe with her husband and two children, was a former corporate executive who had attended Harvard on a track and field scholarship.
“Everybody liked Carrie. She was a good person,” her high school hurdling coach, Jerome Bearden, said after hearing about her death from a former student.
Sisters Liz Clabaugh and Caroline Sekar were “two of the best people I’ve ever known”, their brother McAlister Clabaugh told the New York Times.
“They were incredible sisters, mothers, wives and friends. And the idea that they are both gone is, I don’t even know how to put it into words,” he said.
Image: Sisters Caroline Sekar, left, and Liz Clabaugh. Pic: AP
‘Enormous tragedy’
The three other victims killed in the avalanche were guides Andrew Alissandratos, 34, Nicole Choo, 42, and Michael Henry, 30.
They worked for Blackbird Mountain Guides, whose founder, Zeb Blais, wrote in a statement on Wednesday: “This was an enormous tragedy, and the saddest event our team has ever experienced.
“We are doing what we can to support the families who lost so much, and the members of our team who lost treasured friends and colleagues.”
Image: Andrew Alissandratos. Pic: Blackbird Guides
Six people survived the avalanche, including two members of the friend group, three skiers and one guide.
They were rescued on Tuesday after calling for help around 11.30am, describing a terrifying avalanche the length of a football field that had struck the group of 15.
Image:
Members of a rescue team in California on Tuesday. Pic: Nevada County Sheriff’s Office via AP
‘Many unanswered questions’
The families of the six friends said they “have many unanswered questions”.
It is not clear what triggered the avalanche, which is the deadliest in modern California history.
Officials said the group was on a “normally travelled route”. Authorities are investigating whether “there were any factors that would be considered criminal negligence”, according to Sky News’ US partner network NBC.
“The information we have at this time is that this was the last day of their three-day tour, and they did decide to leave early to try to get off the mountain early” to avoid the impending snowstorm, according to Shannan Moon, the sheriff of Nevada County, California.
Eight of the skiers had been found dead by Thursday, with the last missing person discovered “relatively close” to the other victims on Saturday, Lieutenant Dennis Hack from the Nevada County sheriff’s office said.
He said it was impossible to see the final victim because there were white-out conditions when the others were located.
Five of the bodies were transported off the mountain on Friday, with the remaining four recovered on Saturday.
“While we wish we could have saved them all, we are grateful that we can bring them home,” Ms Moon said.
Peter Mandelson Arrested on Misconduct Charges: Latest Updates and Reactions
4:48 am
Media Lens: Peter Mandelson Arrested on Misconduct Charges: Latest Updates and Reactions
Lord Peter Mandelson has been arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office. He has been released on bail while investigations continue.
Quick links:
What has happened |
Confirmed details |
What remains unclear |
One story, four angles |
What’s missing |
Related links
What has happened
Lord Peter Mandelson has been arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office. This development follows an investigation that is yet to disclose specific details regarding the allegations made against him. Mandelson was taken into custody, and he has since been released on bail, pending further inquiries.
In a related context, the arrest has prompted reactions from the family of Virginia Giuffre, who has been associated with high-profile legal matters. The situation is evolving, and further updates are expected as the investigation continues.
Confirmed details
- Lord Peter Mandelson was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office.
- The arrest occurred approximately nine hours ago, as reported by multiple news sources.
- Following the arrest, he has been released on bail.
- The incident has prompted reactions from the family of Virginia Giuffre.
- Details surrounding the reason for the arrest have not been publicly disclosed.
- Authorities are expected to continue their investigation into the matter.
What remains unclear
- The specific details surrounding Lord Mandelson’s arrest, including the exact circumstances and timeline.
- The full extent of the allegations against Lord Mandelson regarding misconduct in public office.
- Whether other individuals are involved in this case or if it solely concerns Lord Mandelson.
- The official statements from law enforcement regarding the investigation or any charges filed.
- The public response from Lord Mandelson or his legal representatives regarding the arrest.
- Any potential implications for Lord Mandelson’s political career or public life following this incident.
One story, four angles
The Guardian – Peter Mandelson arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office
Publication: The Guardian | Primary framing pattern: Critical | Tone register: Informative | Intensity level: Escalatory (8/10) | Sentiment: -0.5 | Legal precision: High
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Espresso Shot:
The arrest of Peter Mandelson, a prominent figure, sends ripples through political circles. The term “misconduct in public office” carries heavy implications, nudging public perception towards a narrative of corruption and elite irresponsibility.
Quote unavailable (paywall/limited preview).
Framing analysis:
The framing of Mandelson’s arrest leans heavily on public concern regarding accountability among political elites, inviting interpretations of systemic failings.
Bias:
Selection: Focus on high-profile political arrests.
Language: Emphasis on “misconduct” suggests wrongdoing.
Omission: Lack of context on the case specifics.
Assessment:
The article frames Mandelson’s situation as indicative of broader issues within political accountability.
BBC – Lord Mandelson arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office
Publication: BBC | Primary framing pattern: Neutral | Tone register: Objective | Intensity level: Contextual (5/10) | Sentiment: 0.0 | Legal precision: Medium
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Espresso Shot:
Reporting on Mandelson’s arrest maintains an objective tone, aiming to inform without implying guilt. This stance offers the public unbiased information while refraining from sensationalism.
Quote unavailable (paywall/limited preview).
Framing analysis:
The BBC’s framing prioritises impartiality, enabling audiences to form their own opinions without emotional bias.
Bias:
Selection: Details about the incident are minimal.
Language: Use of neutral terms maintains neutrality.
Omission: Lacks deeper investigative context on implications.
Assessment:
The neutral tone helps position the report as a simple account rather than an opinion piece.
The Independent – Mandelson arrest latest: Peer released on bail as Virginia Giuffre’s family react
Publication: The Independent | Primary framing pattern: Critical | Tone register: Engaged | Intensity level: Escalatory (7/10) | Sentiment: -0.2 | Legal precision: Medium
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Espresso Shot:
The Independent focuses on the implications of Mandelson’s arrest, combining commentary with updates from Virginia Giuffre’s family. This approach amplifies public interest and scrutiny surrounding misconduct allegations.
Quote unavailable (paywall/limited preview).
Framing analysis:
By highlighting family reactions, the article frames the arrest as part of a larger narrative affecting victims and accountability.
Bias:
Selection: Prioritises personal reactions which may skew public perception.
Language: Engaged language increases emotional investment.
Omission: Limited context on the arrest details.
Assessment:
The article effectively evokes a public reaction, framing Mandelson’s arrest within broader societal issues.
The Telegraph – ‘Dear Gordon’ email was in Epstein’s inbox 38 minutes after reaching PM
Publication: The Telegraph | Primary framing pattern: Investigative | Tone register: Suspensive | Intensity level: Escalatory (8/10) | Sentiment: -0.7 | Legal precision: Medium
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Espresso Shot:
The article scrutinises the timing of communications between Mandelson and Epstein, embedding the arrest within allegations of deeper political malfeasance. This highlights relationships that could amplify suspicions about integrity in leadership.
Quote unavailable (paywall/limited preview).
Framing analysis:
By tying Mandelson’s arrest to Epstein, the article frames him as part of a broader, sinister narrative that implies corruption within high offices.
Bias:
Selection: Focused on sensational aspects of the case.
Language: Uses suspenseful language to provoke concerns.
Omission: Lacks neutral viewpoints on the context of the communication.
Assessment:
This narrative style intensifies public scrutiny and concern towards political figures entangled with Epstein.
What’s missing across coverage
- Details surrounding the specific reasons for Lord Mandelson’s arrest, including any additional context regarding the investigation or accusations of misconduct.
- Information on the legal implications of the charges he faces, such as potential penalties or precedent cases that may relate to his situation.
- A breakdown of public and political reactions, including commentary from fellow politicians, advocacy groups, and public figures, to provide perspective on the broader implications of the arrest.
- Updates on the timeline of events leading up to the arrest, including any previous incidents or controversies involving Lord Mandelson that might be relevant to the current situation.
Comparative conclusion
The framings surrounding Lord Peter Mandelson’s recent arrest highlight distinct approaches to covering the event: The Guardian presents it with a focus on the legal implications, underscoring public concern over accountability; BBC emphasises the procedural aspects, detailing the police actions and the arrest’s context, maintaining an informative tone; The Independent leans into the emotional impact, featuring reactions from involved parties that add a personal layer; while The Telegraph adopts a more sensationalist angle, with attention-grabbing headlines aimed at engaging readers’ curiosity about political intrigue. Each outlet shapes the narrative to align with its editorial style, influencing audience perceptions and responses.
Related links
Here’s the list of publications used in “One story, four angles”:
The Guardian
Peter Mandelson arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office
BBC
Lord Mandelson arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office
The Independent
Mandelson arrest latest: Peer released on bail as Virginia Giuffre’s family react
The Telegraph
‘Dear Gordon’ email was in Epstein’s inbox 38 minutes after reaching PM
Hungary vetoes €90 billion loan for Ukraine, prompting strong EU rebukes
4:00 am
Get you up to speed: Hungary’s Veto of €90 Billion Loan to Ukraine Sparks EU Outrage
Hungary has vetoed a €90 billion loan intended for Ukraine, prompting criticism from various EU nations. This decision is viewed by some member states as a betrayal of European solidarity.
The veto has led to harsh rebukes from EU leaders, who perceive Hungary’s stance as increasingly disloyal. Many officials from different EU countries have expressed their disappointment, highlighting the importance of unity in assisting Ukraine.
The situation raises concerns about the future of financial support for Ukraine amidst ongoing conflict. As discussions continue, the EU may need to reconsider its approach to financial aid and member cooperation.
What we know so far
EU accuses Hungary of disloyalty for vetoing €90 billion loan to Ukraine
Hungary’s veto of a €90 billion loan for Ukraine has drawn strong condemnation from other EU countries. This decision is regarded by numerous EU leaders as an act of disloyalty, undermining the collective support for Ukraine during its ongoing crisis.
Several officials from various EU nations have voiced their disappointment, emphasising the need for unity in assisting Ukraine. The negative reaction highlights the increasing tensions between Hungary and other EU member states regarding support for Ukraine.
As the situation evolves, concerns are mounting over the implications for future financial assistance to Ukraine. The EU is likely to reassess its strategies for fostering cooperation among member states in the face of such unilateral actions.
Negotiations and discussions are expected to continue in light of Hungary’s decision, with member states exploring alternative financial solutions for Ukraine. The focus will be on ensuring robust support for Ukraine amidst the ongoing conflict.
How we measure media bias and framing
3:05 am
Everyone is biased, we have an in built system called inherit bias, made of our life experiences and in some case how we were raised, — and that’s okay. And that is also true form media networks and there’s no such thing as unbiased news, each institution takes a stance and often panders to a certain type of audience.
Just because everyone is biased does not mean it should get a pass, these days logic has become so stifled that most people have become tuned to believe a coherent sentence justifies the actions, despite the lack of cohesion or substance.
Obvious or visible bias has almost become acceptable. That’s what make bias dangerous, it has become weaponised in politics and we haven’t even got the more elusive type of bias, institutional character bias; Hidden media bias misleads, manipulates and divides us.
How we measure media bias
It is why we have our media lens; One Story, four angles as part of our news briefing service, to cut through noise and get to the facts of story.
How we assess media sentiment and framing →
Sentiment scores range from -1.0 (strongly negative tone) to +1.0 (strongly positive tone), with 0 indicating neutral reporting. Framing intensity measures emphasis and urgency on a scale of 1–10.
Nick Reiner, son of Rob Reiner, enters not guilty plea in parents’ murder case
1:50 am
Get you up to speed: Nick Reiner, son of Rob Reiner, enters not guilty plea in parents’ murder case
Nick Reiner has pleaded not guilty to two counts of first-degree murder in the stabbing deaths of his parents, Rob Reiner and Michele Singer Reiner, with the plea entered by his lawyer in a Los Angeles court. He has been held without bail since his arrest following the discovery of their bodies at their home on December 14.
District Attorney Nathan Hochman stated his office has not yet decided whether to pursue the death penalty against Nick Reiner. Meanwhile, deputy district attorney Habib Balian mentioned that they are still awaiting a full autopsy report, while all other evidence has been provided to the defense.
Nick Reiner is scheduled to return to court on 29 April, where a preliminary hearing will take place, allowing prosecutors to present evidence. District Attorney Nathan Hochman mentioned that his office has not yet decided whether to seek the death penalty for Reiner.
What we know so far
Rob Reiner’s son Nick pleads not guilty to murder of his parents | US News
Rob Reiner’s son Nick has pleaded not guilty to two counts of first-degree murder in the fatal stabbing of the actor-director and his wife Michele Singer Reiner.
Reiner’s lawyer, deputy public defender Kimberly Greene, entered the plea on his behalf as he appeared behind glass in court in Los Angeles.
The 32-year-old, the third of Rob Reiner’s four children, has been held without bail since his arrest hours after the 78-year-old director and his wife were found dead at their home in the Brentwood area of LA on 14 December.
Image – Moment Nick Reiner arrested over parents’ murder
Reiner, who appeared in court with his head shaved and wearing brown jail clothes, talked briefly to his lawyer before the hearing and spoke only to answer yes to a question from the judge.
Image: Rob Reiner with his wife Michele Singer Reiner. Pic: AP
The judge told Reiner to return to court on 29 April for the scheduling of a preliminary hearing, where prosecutors will present evidence and a judge will decide if it is enough for Reiner to go to trial.
Image: Rob Reiner with his wife Michele and children Jake, Romy and Nick (L-R). Pic: Reuters
Speaking outside court, district attorney Nathan Hochman said his office still has not decided whether it will seek the death penalty for Reiner.
It comes after Reiner’s previous lawyer quit the case at a hearing in January because of what he called circumstances beyond his and his client’s control.
The high-profile private lawyer said legal ethics would not allow him to say why, but speaking outside the courthouse he declared that “pursuant to the laws of California, Nick Reiner is not guilty of murder”. He was replaced by a public defender.
Meanwhile, deputy district attorney Habib Balian said his office is still awaiting a full autopsy report, but all other evidence has been turned over to the defence.
Rob Reiner and his 70-year-old wife died from “multiple sharp force injuries”, the LA County Medical Examiner said in its initial findings.
Authorities said they were killed hours before their bodies were discovered. A court order has prevented the release of further details.
Rob Reiner’s work included some of the most memorable films of the 1980s and 1990s, including This Is Spinal Tap, A Few Good Men, When Harry Met Sally and The Princess Bride.
European Parliament rejects Patriots for Europe’s minute of silence request
1:00 am
Get you up to speed: European Parliament Rejects Minute of Silence for French Nationalist Student
The European Parliament has declined a request from the far-right Patriots for Europe (PfE) group to observe a minute of silence for Quentin Deranque, a French nationalist student killed in Lyon. Parliament’s President Roberta Metsola stated that the extraordinary session’s focus on the Ukraine war did not relate to the request.
The rejection has triggered strong reactions in France, particularly from far-right parties that blame the left for Deranque’s death amid ongoing investigations. A recent march in Lyon saw over 3,200 people gather to pay tribute to the slain student.
A minute of silence for Deranque could be held at the next regular plenary meeting in the second week of March in Strasbourg. The European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR) group plans to seek a plenary debate in March on political violence linked to far-left extremism.
What we know so far
Exclusive: European Parliament rejects minute of silence for French nationalist student
The European Parliament has rejected a request to observe a minute of silence for Quentin Deranque, a nationalist student who died following violence in Lyon. According to internal sources, this decision was made by Parliament’s President Roberta Metsola, as the session is dedicated to the war in Ukraine.
The request was made by the far-right Patriots for Europe (PfE) group during a significant session marking the fourth anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Metsola’s office has also turned down other agenda change requests for the session.
Deranque, who was 23 years old, succumbed to injuries sustained during clashes linked to far-left and far-right activists. These confrontations occurred at an event featuring Rima Hassan, an MEP from the leftist party La France Insoumise (LFI).
This has the potential of boiling over to different factions within the EU. As far right sympathisers in Europe are weighing-in on the discourse. French President Emmanuel Macron told Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni to stop commenting on France’s internal affairs on Thursday, after she condemned the fatal beating of a far-right activist in Lyon.
In Lyon, more than 3,200 people participated in a march on Saturday to honour Deranque’s memory. The investigation into his death continues, with accusations against LFI and the involvement of seven individuals facing murder charges.
The rejection of the minute of silence has ignited political tensions within the EU, with the far-right accusing LFI of moral responsibility for the violence. France’s Foreign Minister, Jean-Noël Barrot, has also expressed concerns over the use of Deranque’s death for political purposes, notably in light of diplomatic tensions following comments from the US ambassador.
The minute of silence for Deranque may take place at the upcoming plenary meeting in March, as discussions surrounding far-left extremism are set to continue.
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