Thanks for all the input and suggestions... I spliced up some small diameter 3-strand with a spring clip spliced on one end so I can continue my better-safe-than-sorry practice. Anything above tropical storm, and I'd take it down altogether (along with bimini, and dodger), but this is just for week-to-week stuff. If there were a hurricane in the forecast I might go as far as to remove the (roller-furling) main as well... not so much for fear of wind tearing it, but to reduce weight aloft a bit. I live about an hour and a half away from my mooring, so I err on the side of caution sometimes with canvas and storm readiness only because it is a PITA for me to round trip to the boat to make a quick adjustment... especially when rushed to get ahead of a storm, If the boat were a mile away, I'd probably be more lax and adjust as needed. Thanks.