GM recalls 1.4 million cars

General Motors has recalled 1.3 million of its Pontiac and Chevrolet cars in North America, said the company. General Motors recalled the cars because of power steering failures that have resulted in 14 crashes in the United States.

The 2005-2010 Chevrolet Cobalts and the 2007-2010 Pontiac G-5's sold in the United States, the 2004-2005 Pontiac Pursuit sold in Canada, and the 2005-2006 sold in Mexico will be recalled. GM had been investigating the power steering problem since January of 2009.

Chilean earthquake swept away full bus of retirees

A group of 40 retirees enjoying summer vacation were swept away in a bus while trying to get to higher ground. The waves reached as far as 200 meters inland before sweeping the bus away. Of the 40, only five bodies have been found, according to firefighters and witnesses. 

The 8.8 magnitude earthquake that turned into a tsunami has destroyed communities along the south-central Chilean coast. The death toll has increased to 723, with 180,000 more people homeless.  

Cazenovia passes social host law to combat underage drinking

In Cazenovia, adults who knowingly allow minors alcohol consumption can now be fined between $250-$1,000 according to the Syracuse Post-Standard. Similar laws exist in over 30 municipalities in New York. Caz Action, a coalition of parents, teachers and students are pushing nearby towns and villages to adopt similar legislation. Madison County Stop DWI coordinator told the Post-Standard the law was meant to prevent parties, not parents serving wine at family dinners.