As an active VE, I always prepare my 7012/A in advance for reporting to my FSO-VE. It's a good idea to mark a space to fill-in on your 7012 to document the amount of time you spent on the VSC. Some boats take can over an hour and some only 20 min. After a long day, you may not know how much time total was spent especially if there is a long break in between or if you're working in multiple capacities (VE, Visitor, Aid Verifier, etc). It helps to accurately record the amount of time to report on the 7038. Another area I mark is next to Maritime Domain Awareness is the number of people were present when I give an AWW briefing. This too keeps an accurate log to be reported.

Submitted by: Greg Jurek, VE from Flotilla 01-06, District 114

Idea Exchange: For the boater who takes the time to have their vessel examined, we have printed a Marine Engine Maintenance Logbook. The inside front cover shows how to make a proper distress call. The inside back cover has a sample "Float Plan" and the back cover has a thank you note and an invitation to visit our flotilla at a meeting or on the Internet with our URL boldly printed in the center.

This logbook is something that every power-boater can use and is a reminder to visit us.

Submitted by: Harold Parker, FSO-VE from Flotilla 81, District.13

Idea Exchange: Here is a great way to get involved with the gold side and to gain some extra VSC credits at the same time.

BMSC Robert Braford of USCG Station Oak Island requested that all of his vessels have VSCs. They were inspected by AUX Charlie Jones of Flotilla 10-05, Southport, North Carolina.

Submitted by: Stan Ash, SO-VE from Division 10, District 5(SR)

Idea Exchange: VSC’s are the ideal chance to enlist new members. I bring in lots of new members, since I have done over 800 exams so far this year. It is also an ideal time to invite them to attend our PE classes. Hence if you are a top VE you should be tops at filling classes and Flotilla membership!

Submitted by: Joseph Zeller, VE from 0700908

Idea Exchange: A random act of Vessel Examination is a lot of work and stress! Every customer is a stranger. In the trade we call that a “cold call”. In other words you approach a total stranger and you have 15 seconds to sell boating safety and get their permission! There is a way to change that situation so that next year you have an appointment with a friend, you and the boat owner have already met!

Your best lead is someone that you already know, ask for his or her mailing address so you may send a reminder card. When you get home, make a note of the date you will send that post card, follow up next year and before you know it you will have an annual following.

Submitted by: John W. Combs, Vessel Examiner from Flotilla 85, District 7