Abstract: A stake having first and second generally planar members intersecting along a common longitudinal axis extending from a leading end adapted for ground penetration to a trailing end with a striking surface includes a plurality of steps toward the trailing end adapted for supporting posts of varying diameters. Support pads extend in a circumferential direction about the longitudinal axis from the steps to provide a support surface for securing a posts of varying diameters and/or shapes with a fastener. In one embodiment, the stake includes a number of holes extending through at least one of the first and second members and the first and second members include scalloped edges with a common apex at the leading end. In another embodiment, the second member includes a triangular portion with an apex displaced relative to the apex of the first member which may include a triangular or trapezoidal portion.

Abstract: A modular fence construction for use with a pair of posts installed in a ground mass. The posts are laterally spaced from each other and have at least one transverse support member affixed thereto. The modular fence construction comprises a plurality of pickets and at least one transverse rail affixed to the plurality of pickets. The transverse rail includes a channel adapted to receive the at least one transverse support member. The plurality of pickets and the at least one transverse rail are formed as a unitary piece and are adapted to mate with like unitary pieces to provide the modular fence construction.

Abstract: An apparatus for releasably clamping an elongated flexible member is provided. This clamping apparatus includes body defining at least one passage therethrough. A clamping member is operatively associated with the body member such that a portion of the clamping member can be selectively moved into and out of the passage. Juxtaposed clamping surfaces on the clamping member and the body converge and diverge as the clamping member is moved into and out of the passage. An actuator member extends from the clamping member and is operable for causing the clamping member to move into and out of the passage to engage and disengage the flexible elongated member therein. A locking mechanism is utilized to releasably fix the clamping member in one of a plurality of engaged positions.