Judy Hetterman

 

Staying dry is important, but what does it mean when the clothing label says water resistance verses waterproof? For those who have to brave the elements this spring, here is what’s important.
To be truly “waterproof,” the garment must be made from a “waterproof” fabric and have sealed, or taped seams so that rain does not leak in through the small holes made by the sewing needles during the construction of the garment. Sealing and taping seams takes special equipment and extra time. As such, it adds substantially to the cost of the garment. If the garment is made from a “water resistant” fabric, it usually means that a coating has been applied to the fabric to help repel water. Water resistant fabrics work very well for light rains, or drizzles, but may get soaked over time and are not considered to be “rain gear.” If you are looking for protection from rain, you must look for garments made from “waterproof” fabrics, not “water resistant” fabrics.
Being “waterproof” means that moisture does not pass through the fabric … rain does not come in, and sweat does not go out. Activities like cycling cause one to generate so much heat and sweat, that the only way to stay dry inside and out is to have a garment that is not only waterproof, but breathes and wicks moisture. Breathability and moisture management are obtained through fabric construction, and/or venting.
Organizing Financial Records This Spring
As you are doing your spring cleaning, remember to do some cleaning and organizing of your financial records as well. If you had trouble finding your tax-related documents as you prepared your tax return, or if your pile of bills and receipts is in a jumble, this is a good time to get organized and de-cluttered.
What to Keep:
Insurance Policies – Keep the originals or copies of any insurance policies you own, including life insurance, medical insurance, homeowner’s or renter’s coverage and auto insurance. Be sure that the name and contact information for your current agent is easy to find. If not, attach a note with that information to your policies.
Legal Documents – Keep originals or copies of legal documents such as wills, health care directives, powers of attorney, marriage and birth certificates, passports, military records, and titles to real estate and vehicles.
Tax Documents – Keep copies of all the paperwork you used to complete your tax returns, including any receipts or bills that verify the numbers included on your tax returns for at least seven years.
Receipts for Purchase – Keep receipts or cancelled checks for home improvement projects or large purchases as long as you own the house or item. If you decide to sell, or if your property is damaged, you will want a record of the prices you paid for the improvements and maintenance. Keep other receipts as long as you need them for proof of purchase.
What to Toss:
Receipts – Toss out receipts for your credit card purchases or ATM transactions after you have verified that the transactions show up accurately on your statement. Be sure you keep receipts for any items you may be able to use for tax deductions.
Old Investment Prospectuses and Brochures – Investment companies are required by law to provide a written prospectus to investors of many types of investment products. Toss out any prospectuses or brochures that are outdated or for investments you have sold, and keep only the most recent prospectus for investments you still have.
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