In this Aug. 9, 2011, photo, Gary Hartwig of Gretna, Neb., fuels his car at a Costco gas station in Omaha, Neb. Consumers spent more on autos, furniture and gasoline in July, pushing up retail sales by the largest amount in four months. The gain could signal that Americans are a little more confident and help dispell fears that the country is in danger of toppling into another recession. (AP Photo/Nati Harnik)