Automaker BMW recalling 200,000 vehicles

A favorite college coach of mine once said to me, "Some people dream of worthy accomplishments, while others stay awake and do them." As the Olympics come closer to our doorstep, I find myself continually inspired by the efforts that young athletes make in competing on the world Olympic stage. Being able to compete with the world's greatest athletes must be a wonderful experience. What is it that makes a person spend many years of their lives preparing for an event that may only take minutes or even seconds to finish? Over the years, I have found that great achievers are often motivated by the challenge itself. Self-discipline, preparation, and the desire to complete what they began serve as a catalyst for impressive achievement. The very thought of the finish line makes the pain and years of work worthwhile.

WASHINGTON -- Retail sales delivered the weakest performance in five months in July as shoppers shunned autos while they paid more for gas.

WASHINGTON -- The summer vacation season began this year with Americans behind the wheel less. In all, we drove 12.2 billion fewer miles in June than a year earlier, the biggest monthly decrease in a downward trend that began in November.