Consumer Sentiment survey reflects reality – and optimism Gene Marrano May 22, 2020 1 minute read The numbers are grim – almost 39 million new unemployment claims since March for example – and while the latest Consumer Sentiment survey reflects the pandemic-related downturn there is hope beneath the surface. WFIR’s Gene Marrano has that story: Share: Post navigation Previous: Carter Bank & Trust donates over $72,000 to VA and NC food banksNext: Wanted: 1,300 Virginia COVID-fighting contact tracers Related Stories United Way of Virginia’s Blue Ridge helps fund new nature trail signs in Rocky Mount Gene Marrano June 24, 2026 More Romeo & Juliet, new exhibit at Wilson Museum, Broadway in Roanoke releases schedule for 26-27 season Gene Marrano June 24, 2026 Feeding Southwest Virginia President and CEO Pamela Irvine will retire at the end of the year after 45 years with the Food Bank Gene Marrano June 24, 2026