Could low unemployment numbers scare prospects away? Gene Marrano August 24, 2018 1 minute read Could the lowest unemployment rate since August 2007 – 3 point 1 percent – and a record labor force expansion scare prospects away from the state and the region? WFIR’s Gene Marrano spoke with a local economic development specialist: Share: Post navigation Previous: Two more local teams gear up for high school football seasonNext: Poll: Virginians who support Trump say it’s for deeds, not words Related Stories Familiar voice returns to Salem RidgeYaks broadcast booth for 2026 season Web Staff January 30, 2026 0 Carilion Children’s trauma nurse urges safety first approach for those breaking out the Flexible Flyers this week Gene Marrano January 29, 2026 0 Attorney General Jay Jones Joins Multistate Coalition Condemning DOJ Threats Against Minnesota Clark Palmer January 29, 2026 0