Abstract: Apparatus and associated methods relate to distributing a laterally distributed load applied by a flexible surface to one or more longitudinal load paths. A support connection hub may, for example, include a first cavity extending longitudinally along a first axis and configured to receive a vertical support member at a bottom side of the support connection hub. The hub may, for example, include a second cavity extending across a top of the hub along a second axis orthogonal to the first axis. The second cavity may, for example, be horizontally and releasably receive a lateral support member orthogonal to the vertical support member such that the lateral rod is configured to support a flexible surface distributed along the lateral rod. Various embodiments may advantageously transfer a load from the flexible surface to the vertical rod along a load path substantially parallel to the first longitudinal axis.