Chairman Sears announced that the Board received an AG opinion that DWIB is being recognized as a state agency and is protected by sovereign immunity.

The results were discussed from a survey of the most important issues in the Delaware business community. This survey included a cover letter written by Governor Minner. Responses received were approximately 10%. The most important issues of employers were the need for soft skills, literacy and basic math.

Chairman Sears then reported on a meeting held on April 23, in Dover, which included staff, USDOL staff, and Tom Dowd, (new Regional Administrator). He was briefed on the progress in Delaware and he offered his help in the continuation of our process. A tour of Del Tech's Wheels Center followed, which is actually a classroom on wheels consisting of computers, offering training and services in communities throughout the state (see attached).

Chairman John McMahon reported on a meeting held March 13, 2001 with school district counselors from each county to clarify some problems and to help identify youth for WIB programs. All counselors were more informed after the meeting, which was successful.

On April 16, 2001, this committee met to discuss an issue in meeting the required standards for youth program funds at end of year. Sharon Wellons. USDOL was in attendance to report on current problems youth programs nationwide. The committee approved contract changes in WIA youth training funds, and approval for funding of two pilot programs 1) A Delaware Skills Center CNA program, 2) Ferris School contracted with CEP to run a landscaping/horticultural program.

Judy Cherry reported for Chairman Duane Wayman. To date 42 providers have been approved for WIA funds and approximately 207 programs.

Judy reported that the 2^nd quarter performance report is due May 15 and will be sent out in a few days. However, a piece on customer satisfaction will be delayed until the end of the month and information on the result of the RFP won't be available until a later date. She commented also on a report of the statistics for client completing self-assessment (see attached).

Chairman Harold Stafford introduced Ann Farley, the new director of the Division of Employment & Training at DOL. The committee is currently in the development stage of selecting a brand name for the WIB. He commented on a power-point presentation and diskette, which was developed for all members to use in helping to get the work out about the Board and its accomplishments. Committee will continue to work on marketing campaigns, the development of more psa's and joint efforts with other state agencies to promote Board activities.

Patty Cannon presented to the Board the power-point presentation that each member now has in their possession. She emphasized the ways to utilize this tool and commented on the importance of using the American Workforce Network logo, in addition to current logo, for all future marketing information and general correspondence. She stated that the mission of the Board is to make sure that public and private entities are working together and the specific needs of Delaware employers are met, in addition to improving the employability of individuals.