Americans bought more cars, restaurant meals and building supplies in July, a rise in spending that points to steady economic growth anchored by an improving job market, the Associated Press reported yesterday. Retail sales climbed 0.6 percent last month after a flat reading in June, the Commerce Department said Thursday. Purchases at auto dealers rose 1.4 percent in July, while restaurants and building materials stores both recorded a 0.7 percent gain. Shopping also improved at furniture stores, sporting goods retailers and clothiers.
