The U.S. economy looks like it’s going to catch another case of spring fever. After a slowdown in hiring in April, the biggest jump in retail sales in a year came as welcome news last week. The 1.3% pop in April sales suggests the economy is revving up following a meager 0.5% increase in gross domestic product in the first quarter. “This is clear evidence that consumer spending is still alive and well,” said Stuart Hoffman, chief economist at PNC Financial Services. A batch of economic signposts this week is likely to offer more evidence that a rebound is underway. Construction on new homes and sales of previously ... (full story)