A day in the life of an Executive Producer involves story meetings, conversations to decide what will be on that day's news broadcasts, debates about how those stories will be reported, and the constant knowledge that a breaking story could change your day in an instant. As exciting as a last minute dash to a courthouse registry might be, it seems hard to imagine that a career in law could ever be as interesting as one in journalism.
But after an hour in conversation with Dan Getz (Class of 2010), deeper similarities between the two professions emerge - both require tenacity, the ability to express oneself clearly and a constant desire "to know stuff". It was these similarities in combination with his lifelong interest in the law that led Dan to enter law school after 10 years of working in journalism with the CBC. In the end, it was his love for a fast-paced environment and constantly changing work that saw him return to the CBC after a period practicing law in Vancouver.
When asked about his career trajectory Dan is quick to mention that he has always had, and continues to have, a strong interest in legal stories and the law. This affinity for the law seems to run in the Getz family. Dan's father, Leon Getz, QC, is well known in Vancouver's legal community as a lawyer and former professor at the Allard School of Law. In a recorded interview for the Allard School of Law History Project, Leon Getz, Q.C. spoke of his own father, who had been a merchant in South Africa, having a fascination with the law. Despite this Getz family tradition of an interest in the law, Dan initially decided to pursue journalism. But after 10 years working with the CBC in various capacities, Dan thought it was time to explore legal studies and practice.
Like many law alumni, some of Dan's favourite memories of law school do not involve the classroom. Winning the BC Law Schools Moot and playing on the Illegal Beavers rugby team are among his favourite moments. His "life experience" again served him well in rugby, as one of the most seasoned players on the team. Today, he is quick to declare that you will not see him on the pitch in the annual alumni vs Illegal Beavers game—his rugby days are behind him!
After law school, Dan pursued a career in litigation with a focus on media law, but, after a career in the newsroom, he found the litigation process too slow. He missed the adrenaline of working on a daily news broadcast, the discipline required to meet daily deadlines and the fact that the "slate is wiped clean every day." Dan returned to the CBC in July 2012 as a News Producer. In June 2015 he began his current role as the Executive Producer of News Now with Ian Hanomansing.
Even though he has chosen not to continue his career in law, Dan has no regrets about his legal education and sees its value in his work with the CBC. He says that the legal analysis skills he learned have made him a "better, more mature journalist". His foray into law has also given him an "appreciation for the complexities of the law and of the importance of reporting legal stories in a responsible way."
Ultimately Dan's philosophy is "you have to love what you're doing" because you will be doing it every day for a very long time. In his experience, if you are inquisitive, like to investigate issues from different perspectives and want to "see what's happening beneath the surface" then the career you love could be either law or journalism. The deciding factor appears to be whether you define excitement as delivering a last minute filing to the courthouse or dashing off to the field to deliver a breaking news report.
Dan Getz lives in Vancouver with his wife Brenda and two children, Annie and Joe. If you look closely, you can sometimes see him pontificating in the background on CBC News Network.


text:
The 1997 Boston College Eagles football team represented Boston College during the 1997 NCAA Division I-A football season. Boston College was a member of the Big East Conference. The Eagles played their home games at Alumni Stadium in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, which has been their home stadium since 1957.

Schedule

Roster
 QB Matt Hasselbeck

References

Boston College
Boston College Eagles football seasons
Boston College Eagles football
Boston College Eagles football

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


After making the careful choice to go with Seaborn Manufacturing, you realize you need a label on your finished product. You might need your company's name, or maybe the name of the part to help with final assembly. Seaborn is happy to help with all your laser engraving and stamping needs. We will carefully write whatever you need onto your finished product. When we say that we'll take your project from start to finish, we mean it.
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text:
Paul S. Moore
Communication | Culture | Media | Cinema | Newspapers
Movie Theatres | Early Cinema
The Sunday Paper, 1888-1922 | Hollywood Ads
A Visual Glimpse at The Sunday Paper | Hollywood Ads
HoMER: Historical Almanac of Regional Ephemera | Hollywood Ads
Diasporic Audiences
Canadian Theatres
Exteriors of Canadian Movie Theatres
Canadian Movie Theatre Histories
Detailed Map: Curated Sample of Itinerant Circuits
Circuits of Cinema: Mapping Itinerant Shows
Maps of Circuits
Theorizing Media Distribution
Patterns: Regional Non-Competing Itinerant Circuits
Prominent Itinerant Cinema Shows, 1896 to 1908
Canadian Picture Pioneer Timeline
First Person Plural: Canadian Media Pioneers
DHSI Text/Map Modelling
Debuts across North America
| Publications |
Essays | Conferences | Books
(2019) Author "It Pays to Plan 'Em": The Newspaper Movie Directory as a Spectre of Conspicuous Consumption" in Companion to New Cinema History, eds. Biltereyst, Maltby and Meers. Routledge, 365, 377.
Photo Not Currently Available
(2019) Author "'Bought, Sold, Exchanged and Rented': The Early Film Exchange and the Market in Second-hand Films in New York Clipper Classified Ads," Film History 31(2): In Press.
(2018) Author "A Distant Reading of the Chaser Theory: Local Views and the Digital Generation of New Cinema History" in Hidalgo & Gaudreault, eds. Film History, Technology and Film Scholarship: Experience, Study, Theory. Amsterdam University Press, 169-193.
(2018) Author "Spaces In-Between: The Railway and Early Cinema in Canada" in Rural Cinema Exhibition and Audiences in a Global Context, eds. Treveri Gennari, Hipkins and O'Rawe. Palgrave-Macmillan, 73-89.
(2017) Circuits of Cinema 2017 Conference: (click here for more)
Ryerson University, Toronto, Canada
22 to 24 June 2017
Pre-Conference 21 June 2017: Mapping Movies "data-sharing" workshop
(2016) Co-Author & Co-Editor with Phillip Roberts "Objects, Archives, and Collections." Early Popular Visual Culture 14(4): 297-301.
(2016) "Ephemera as Medium: The Afterlife of Lost Films." The Moving Image 16(1): 134-139.
(2015) "Space, Place and Case: Surveying the Grounds of Cinema History." Early Popular Visual Culture 13(4): 336-343.
A review essay of Hallam & Roberts (2014), Bean, Kapse & Horak (2014), and Cinquegrani (2014).
(2014) "Wide-Open Screens: Early Cinema in Saskatchewan," inRogers and Ramsay, eds., Overlooking Saskatchewan: Minding the Gap. Regina: Univeristy of Regina Press, 45-61.
(2014) "Subscribing to Publicity: Syndicated Newspaper Features for Moviegoing in North America, 1911-1915." Early Popular Visual Culture 12(2): 260-273.
(2013) "The Grand Opening of the Movie Theatre in the Second Birth of Cinema." Early Popular Visual Culture 11(2): 113-125.
(2013) "The Flow of Amusement: The First Year of Cinema in the Red River Valley," in Conway and Pasch, eds., Beyond the Border: Tensions Across the 49th Parallel. Montreal: McGill-Queen's University Press, 71-89.
CULTURAL INDUSTRIES.ca : Making Sense of Canadian Media in the Digital Age.
with Sandra Gabriele (2014) "« L'Univers Illustré » de La Presse : the Animation of Newspaper Pages in Late 19th Century." Nouvelles Vues 15: online (16 pages) at www.nouvellesvues.ulaval.ca
with Sandra Gabriele (2012) "Old Media, New Media, Intermedia: the Toronto Star's CFCA, 1922-1933," in Wagman and Urquhart, eds., Cultural Industries in Canada. Toronto: Lorimer, 218-236.
(2012) "Mapping Early Cinema's Mass Circulation: Film Debuts Coast-to-Coast in Canada Canadian Journal of Film Studies 21(1): 58-80.
Encyclopedia of Consumption and Waste.
with Michelle Coyne (2012), "Material Culture Today," in Zimring & Rathji, eds., Encyclopedia of Consumption and Waste. Thousand Oaks: Sage, 516-519.
(2012) "Advance Newspaper Publicity for the Vitascope and the Mass Address of Cinema's Reading Public," in Gaudreault, Dulac & Hidalgo, eds. Companion to Early Cinema Malden, MA: Wiley-Blackwell, 381-397.
Co-Editor and Introduction Co-Author (2012) Beyond the Screen: Institutions, Networks and Publics of Early Cinema. Eastleigh, UK: John Libbey.
(2011) "The Social Biograph: Newspapers as Archives of the Regional Mass Market for Movies," in Maltby, Meers & Biltereyst, eds., Explorations in New Cinema History. Malden, MA: Wiley-Blackwell, 269-279.
Intersections of Media and Communications
with Sandra Gabriele (2011) "Media R/Evolutions," in Straw, Wagman & Gabriele, eds., Intersections of Media & Communications. Toronto: Edmund Montgomery, 113-134.
(2010) "Early Movie-going in Niagara: From Itinerant Shows to Local Institutions, 1897-1910," in Nicks and Grant, eds., Covering Niagara: Studies in Local Popular Culture. Waterloo: Wilfrid Laurier University Press, 69-90.
Canadian Journal of Communication 34 (3)
with Sandra Gabriele (2009) "The Globe on Saturday, The World on Sunday: Toronto Weekend Editions and the Influence of the American Sunday paper, 1886-1895." Canadian Journal of Communication 34(3): 337-358.
with Philip Dombowsky (2009) "Allen Theatre Enterprises," Marquee 40(3): 3-31.
(2008) Now Playing: Early Moviegoing and the Regulation of Fun. Albany, NY: State University of New York Press. Horizons of Cinema Series. (click here for more)
(2008) "Socially Combustible: Panicky People, Flammable Films, and the Dangerous New Technology of the Nickelodeon," in Bennett, Furstenau & MacKenzie, eds. Cinema and Technology. New York: Palgrave, 75-87.
(2008) "Nationalist Filmgoing without Canadian-Made Films?" in Abel, King & Bertollini, eds., Early Cinema and the National. Eastleigh, UK: John Libbey Press, 155-163.
(2007) "Newfoundland Amusements: Early Picture Shows at the Fulcrum of Modern and Parochial St. John's." Newfoundland and Labrador Studies 22(2): 447-471.
(2006) "James M. Sessions' Advertising for Balaban & Katz Theatres," Marquee, 38(1): 17-24.
(2005) "Everybody's Going: City Newspapers and the Early Mass Market for Movies." City & Community 4(4): 339-357.
with Louis Pelletier (2005) "Une excentrique au coeur de l'industrie: Ray Lewis et le Canadian Moving Picture Digest." Cinémas 16(1): 59-90.
(2004) "Movie Palaces on Canadian Downtown Main Streets," Urban History Review 32(2): 3-20.
(2003) "Nathan L. Nathanson Introduces Canadian Odeon," Canadian Journal of Film Studies 12(2): 22-45.
Research conducted for the Film Studies Association of Canada's Gerald Pratley Student Research Award and Keynote Lecture.
(2002) "Weekday Matinee: Scene of the Daydream in Everyday Life." Public 22: 37-52.
(2002) "The Ontario Odeons of Jay I. English," Marquee 34(3): 4-13.
Copyright 2019 © Paul S. Moore
Toronto | Canada | Cinema

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


A method and apparatus for obstructing the passage of fluid within a fluid flow conduit and subsequently reconfiguring the tool to allow substantially full-bore passage therethrough. Pressure developed upstream of the obstruction can be utilized to operate pressure actuated tools such as liner hangers. Equipment used in subsequent wellbore operations such as drill pipe darts can pass undamaged through the opened port. In an embodiment, the flow through a tubular is obstructed by placing a ball on an expandable ball seat, developing a pressure differential across the ball seat, equalizing the pressure after the hydraulically actuated tool completes its function, and mechanically manipulating the drill string to open the expandable ball seat and allow the ball to pass through.
4062406 December 1977 Akkerman et al.
4252196 February 1981 Silberman et al.
5375662 December 1994 Echols et al.
5823265 October 1998 Crow et al.
5884702 March 1999 Yokley et al.
6006828 December 1999 Kluth et al.
6009943 January 2000 Yokley et al.
UK. Search Report, Application No. GB 0319806.6, dated Feb. 18, 2004..
Attorney, Agent or Firm: Moser, Patterson & Sheridan, L.L.P.
1. A method for setting a tool in a wellbore, comprising: running a setting tool into the wellbore, the setting tool carrying the tool to be set in the wellbore and defining an axial fluid delivery bore for fluidly communicating the wellbore with the surface; closing the fluid delivery bore to at least restrict fluid flow therethrough; setting the tool with hydraulic pressure; mechanically manipulating at least a portion of the setting tool to open the fluid delivery bore.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein mechanically manipulating comprises axially moving a stabbing member to engage and open a ball seat.
3. The method of claim 1, wherein mechanically manipulating originates from the surface.
4. The method of claim 1, wherein closing the fluid delivery bore comprises disposing a ball on a ball seat of a valve to restrict a fluid pathway of the valve and wherein mechanically manipulating at least the portion of the setting tool to open the fluid delivery bore comprises rotating the valve to remove the ball as a flow obstruction and positioning another fluid pathway of the valve in fluid communication with the fluid delivery bore.
5. A downhole tool, comprising: a cylinder body defining a cylinder body bore; a ball seat support member axially separatable from a ball seat disposed within the cylinder body bore; a stabbing member axially slidably disposed within the cylinder body bore, wherein the stabbing member defines a fluid delivery bore and comprises a ball seat engaging end adapted to open the ball seat when the ball seat is separated axially from the ball seat support member.
6. The apparatus of claim 5, further comprising a ball seat support member defining a ball seat support surface for engaging and supporting the ball seat, wherein the ball seat support member and the ball support member are relatively axially movable with respect to one another.
7. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the ball seat defines an inner diameter smaller than an outer diameter of a ball positionable on the ball seat in a first configuration.
8. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the ball seat defines an inner diameter smaller than an outer diameter of a ball positionable on the ball seat in a first configuration and an inner diameter larger than the outer diameter of the ball in a second configuration.
9. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the ball support member is rigidly disposed on the cylindrical body and the ball seat support member is axially slidable with respect to the cylindrical body and wherein the stabbing member and the ball seat support member are rigidly coupled to one another.
10. The apparatus of claim 5, further comprising a ball seat support member defining a ball seat support surface for engaging and supporting the ball seat, wherein the ball seat support member is rigidly disposed on the cylindrical body.
11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the ball support member is axially movable away from the ball seat support member.
12. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the stabbing member and the ball support member are axially moveable with respect to one another.
13. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the ball seat engaging end has a larger inner diameter than an outer diameter of the ball.
14. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the ball support member contains a lateral aperture adapted to equalize the pressure above and below the ball seat and a ball positioned on the ball seat at a predetermined time.
15. A method of operating a downhole tool defining an axial fluid delivery bore for delivery of fluid from a surface into a wellbore, comprising: providing a ball support member comprising a ball seat that is supported by a ball seat support member; running the downhole tool into the wellbore; seating a ball in the ball seat wherein the ball has a larger outer diameter than an inner diameter of the ball seat in order to at least restrict fluid flow between the wellbore and the axial fluid delivery bore; separating the ball support member axially away from the ball seat support member; and mechanically expanding the ball seat such that the ball seat has a larger inner diameter than an outer diameter of the ball.
16. The method of claim 15, further comprising moving a stab relative to the ball support member and expanding the inner diameter of the ball seat.
17. The method of claim 16, wherein moving the stab relative to the ball support member covers the expanded ball seat.
18. The method of claim 16, wherein the lower portion of the stab defines a ball seat engaging end that has a larger inner diameter than an outer diameter of the ball.
19. The method of claim 16, wherein the moving of the stab relative to the ball support member is driven hydraulically.
20. The method of claim 16, wherein the moving of the stab relative to the ball support member is driven mechanically.
21. The method of claim 16, wherein the moving of the stab relative to the ball support member is performed mechanically by mechanical manipulation originating from the surface.
22. The method of claim 15, wherein seating the ball in the ball seat comprises dropping a ball into the axial fluid delivery bore.
23. The method of claim 15, wherein running the downhole tool into the wellbore comprises carrying a liner hanger with the downhole tool on a workstring.
24. The method of claim 23, further comprising setting the liner hanger while the ball is seated on the ball seat.
25. The method of claim 15, wherein separating the ball support member axially away from the ball seat support member comprises exposing a lateral opening on the ball support member whereby a fluid pathway above and below the ball seat is allowed.
26. An downhole tool, comprising: a cylinder body having an axial fluid delivery bore formed therein; a ball seat support member and a ball seat disposed within the axial fluid deliver bore; and a sleeve axially movable in the body, wherein the sleeve retains the ball seat support member in a locked position relative to the sleeve in a first position and an unlocked position relative to the sleeve in a second position, and whereby in the second position, the ball support member can be moved downwards relative to the ball seat.
Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to methods and apparatus to sealably close and open a tubular within an oil and gas wellbore. More particularly, embodiments of the present invention generally relate to methods and apparatus for creating a fluid seal used to produce a pressure differential that is utilized to actuate a hydraulic tool downhole.
Hydrocarbon wells typically begin by drilling a borehole from the earth's surface to a selected depth in order to intersect a hydrocarbon-bearing formation. Steel casing lines the borehole formed in the earth during the drilling process. This creates an annular area between the casing and the borehole that is filled with cement to further support and form the wellbore. Thereafter, the borehole is drilled to a greater depth using a smaller diameter drill than the diameter of the surface casing. A liner may be suspended adjacent the lower end of the previously suspended and cemented casing. This liner overlaps the casing enough to provide gripping engagement between the casing and liner when hung or suspended and extends to the bottom of the borehole.
In the completion of oil and gas wells, downhole tools are mounted on the end of a drill support member, commonly known as a work string. The work string may be rotated or moved in an axial direction from a surface platform or rig. Illustrative work strings include drill strings, landing strings, completion strings and production strings. Wellbore tubular members such as casing, liner, tubing, and work string define the fluid flow path within the wellbore. Commonly, a need arises to temporarily obstruct one or more of these fluid flow paths within the wellbore. An obstruction that seals the fluid flow path allows the internal pressure within a section of the tubular conduit to be increased. Hydraulically driven tools operate from this increased internal pressure. For example, a hydraulically operated liner hanger can be utilized to hang the liner to the well casing. However, a subsequent step in the completion of the oil or gas well may require the obstructed fluid path to be reopened without requiring the removal of the tubing string from the well in order to clear the obstruction.
Sealably landing a ball on a ball seat provides a common means of temporarily blocking the flow through a tubular conduit in order to operate a hydraulic tool thereabove. Thereafter, increasing pressure above the ball seat causes a shearable member holding the ball seat to shear, releasing the ball seat to move down hole with the ball. However, this leaves the ball and ball seat in the well bore, potentially causing problems for subsequent operations.
Another method of reopening the tubular conduit occurs by increasing the pressure above the ball seat to a point where the pressure forces the ball to deformably open the seat and allow the ball to pass through. In theses designs, the outer diameter of the ball represents the maximum size of the opening that can be created through the ball seat. This potentially limits the size of subsequent equipment that can pass freely through the ball seat and further downhole without the risk of damage or obstruction.
Hydraulic tools located above a ball seat are set to operate at a pressure below the pressure that opens or releases the ball seat. Internal pressures can become quite high when breaking circulation or circulating a liner through a tight section. In order to avoid premature operation of the tool at these times, the pressure required to open or release a ball seat needs to be high enough to allow for a sufficiently high activation pressure for the tool.
For example, predetermined open or release pressures that are set when the ball seat is assembled can exceed 3000 psi. Stored energy above the ball seat results from the compressibility of the fluid and any entrained gases along with the energy stored from the ballooning in the tubular conduit. Therefore, releasing or opening a ball seat by increased pressure can cause the ball to pass through the drill pipe at a relatively high velocity and prematurely release ball seats or shift sleeves located downhole. The large surge pressure created by the ball seat's release can also undesirably damage formations or cause hydraulic tools below the ball seat to actuate prematurely.
Even with precision manufacturing and extensive quality control, occasional malfunctions occur in the activation mechanisms of the tool and the release or opening mechanisms of the ball seat due to these devices' dependency on hydraulic pressure. For example, when the ball seat opens or releases at a lower pressure than planned, the hydraulically operated tool may not have activated or completed its function. Similarly, if the hydraulically operated tool does not function at its desired pressure, the ball seat may reach its release or opening pressure before the tool is activated.
Since the ball seat is a restriction in the wellbore, it must be opened up, moved out of the way, or located low enough in the well to not interfere with subsequent operations. Commonly, the ball seat is moved out of the way by having it drop down hole. Unfortunately, this may require the removal of both the ball and ball seat at a later time. Ball seats made of soft metals such as aluminum provide easier drill out; however, they may not properly seat the ball due to erosion caused by high volumes of drilling mud being pumped through the reduced diameter of the ball seat. Interference from the first ball seat being released downhole may also prevent the ball from sealably landing on another ball seat below. Current collet style mechanisms open up in a radial direction when shifted past a larger diameter grove. However, these ball seats are more prone to leaking than the solid ball seats, and the open collet fingers exposed inside the tubular create the potential for damaging equipment used in subsequent wellbore operations.
Wiper plugs often possess ball catchers that capture the ball when it is released. Thus, they must withstand the shock force imparted when the ball is released and subsequently caught. If a ball seat is alternatively placed in or at the bottom of the wiper plugs, then they must withstand the added force of the pressure acting on the ball seat. However, wiper plugs are built from materials that can be easily drilled in order to minimize drill out times. This requires a balance of strength versus drillability. Placing the ball seat above the wiper plugs provides an acceptable solution only if the released ball and ball seat do not interfere or obstruct the tubular passage during subsequent wellbore operations.
Therefore, there exists a need for an improved apparatus and method for temporarily blocking a fluid path in a wellbore in order to operate a hydraulic tool. There is a further need for a ball seat that does not depend on hydraulic pressure for release, that releases without causing a surge in the tubular below, that can be placed above the wiper plugs, that withstands an impact of a ball released above, that withstands erosion, and that leaves a substantially unobstructed passage through the bore once opened.
The present invention generally relates to a method and apparatus for obstructing the passage of fluid within a fluid flow conduit and subsequently reconfiguring the tool to allow substantially full-bore passage therethrough. Pressure developed upstream of the obstruction can be utilized to operate pressure actuated tools such as liner hangers. Equipment used in subsequent wellbore operations such as drill pipe darts can pass undamaged through the opened port. In one embodiment of the invention, the flow through a tubular is obstructed by placing a ball on an expandable ball seat, developing a pressure differential across the ball seat, equalizing the pressure after the hydraulically actuated tool completes its function, and mechanically manipulating the drill string to open the expandable ball seat and allow the ball to pass through.
FIG. 1A is a longitudinal section view of an embodiment of the invention as it would appear when run in a well bore.
FIG. 1B is an enlarged partial view of a rack and pinion assembly that rotates a multiposition valve shown in the section view of FIG. 1A.
FIG. 1C is an enlarged view of FIG. 1A rotated 90.degree. to better illustrate the rack and pinion assembly that rotates the multiposition valve.
FIG. 2A is a view of the embodiment as shown in FIG. 1A with a ball positioned within the multiposition valve to close the axial fluid delivery bore.
FIG. 2B is a view of FIG. 2A rotated 90.degree. to better illustrate the rack and pinion assembly that rotates the multiposition valve.
FIG. 3A is a view of the embodiment as shown in FIG. 1A during the first stage of the mechanical opening of the multiposition valve.
FIG. 3B is a view of FIG. 3A rotated 90.degree. to better illustrate the rack and pinion assembly that rotates the multiposition valve.
FIG. 4A is a view of the embodiment as shown in FIG. 1A immediately after rotation of the multiposition valve opens the axial fluid delivery bore.
FIG. 4B is an enlarged partial view of the rack and pinion assembly that rotates the multiposition valve.
FIG. 4C is a view of FIG. 4A rotated 90.degree. to better illustrate the rack and pinion assembly that rotates the multiposition valve.
FIG. 5A is a view of the embodiment as shown in FIG. 1A during the stage following the rotation of the multiposition valve.
FIG. 5B is a view of FIG. 5A rotated 90.degree. to better illustrate the rack and pinion assembly that rotates the multiposition valve.
FIG. 6 is an enlarged longitudinal section view of an alternative embodiment of the multiposition valve as it would appear when run in the well bore.
FIG. 7 is a longitudinal section view of an alternative embodiment of the invention as it would appear in a well bore after seating a ball in the ball seat to close the axial fluid delivery bore.
FIG. 8 is a view of the embodiment in FIG. 7 with a stab raised during the first stage of the ball seat opening.
FIG. 9 is a view of the embodiment in FIG. 7 after the ball support member has been moved axially away from the ball seat support member in a second stage of the ball seat opening.
FIG. 10 is a view of the embodiment in FIG. 7 after the stab is raised in a subsequent stage of the ball seat opening.
FIG. 11 is a view of the embodiment in FIG. 7 with an open axial fluid delivery bore after the stab opened the ball seat.
FIG. 12 is a longitudinal section view of another alternative embodiment of the invention as it would appear in a well bore after seating the ball in the ball seat to close the axial fluid delivery bore.
FIG. 13 is a section view across plane 15 of FIG. 12.
FIG. 14 is a view of the embodiment in FIG. 12 at a first stage in the opening of the ball seat.
FIG. 15 is a view of the embodiment in FIG. 12 with an open axial fluid delivery bore after the stab opened the ball seat.
FIG. 16 is a longitudinal section view of another alternative embodiment of the invention as it would appear in a well bore after seating the ball in the ball seat to close the axial fluid delivery bore.
FIG. 17 is a view of the embodiment in FIG. 16 at a stage after raising the retaining member in order to release the ball and ball seat member.
FIG. 18 is a view of the embodiment in FIG. 16 at a stage when the ball and ball seat member have moved axially downhole.
FIG. 19 is a longitudinal section view of another alternative embodiment of the invention as it would appear in a well bore after seating the ball in the ball seat to close the axial fluid delivery bore.
FIG. 20 is a view of the embodiment in FIG. 19 at a stage after raising the retaining member in order to release the ball and ball seat member.
FIG. 21 is a view of the embodiment in FIG. 16 at a stage when the ball and ball seat member have moved axially downhole.
FIG. 22 is a longitudinal section view of another alternative embodiment of the invention as it would appear in a well bore after seating the ball in the ball seat to close the axial fluid delivery bore.
FIG. 23 is a view of the embodiment in FIG. 22 with the inner sleeve raised during the first stage of the ball seat opening.
FIG. 24 is a view of the embodiment in FIG. 22 with an open axial fluid delivery bore.
FIG. 25 is a longitudinal section view of another alternative embodiment of the invention as it would appear in a well bore after seating the ball in the ball seat to close the axial fluid delivery bore.
FIG. 26 is a view of the embodiment in FIG. 25 at a stage after raising the retaining member in order to release the ball and ball seat member.
FIG. 27 is a view of the embodiment in FIG. 26 at a stage when the ball and ball seat member have moved axially downhole.
FIG. 28 is a longitudinal section view of another alternative embodiment of the invention as it would appear in a well bore after seating the ball in the ball seat to close the axial fluid delivery bore.
FIG. 29 is a view of the embodiment in FIG. 28 at a stage after raising the retaining member in order to release the ball and ball seat member.
FIG. 30 is a view of the embodiment in FIG. 29 at a stage when the ball and ball seat member have moved axially downhole.
The present invention generally relates to an apparatus and method for temporarily sealing a fluid flow conduit within a wellbore in order to operate hydraulic tools therein. FIG. 1A illustrates an embodiment of the present invention as it would appear positioned inside a liner 100 within a wellbore 102. Visible in FIG. 1A is a telescoping sleeve 104 held within a sub 106 that is connected to a work string 108, an expandable c-ring 110 that circumscribes the sub, a biasing member 112 that acts on the telescoping sleeve, a multiposition valve 114 with a ball seat 116, and a slideable inner sleeve 118 positioned inside an outer member 120. The axial position of the outer member is fixed relative to the liner 100. FIG. 1C provides a cross section view of the tool shown in FIG. 1A as it would appear rotated ninety degrees. An enlarged view of one embodiment of the multiposition valve as seen from the angle displayed in FIG. 1A is visible in FIG. 1B. Axial movement of the work string 108 can be performed from the surface of the well. In the run in position of FIG. 1, the rotation of the multiposition valve 114 is positioned so that the ball seat 116 within the multiposition valve is opposite an aperture in the multiposition valve that forms the first fluid flow pathway 122. Therefore, a channel is created through the multiposition valve that provides a substantially open bore and allows fluid to flow though the multiposition valve. When the tool is in the run in position, a telescoping sleeve 104 is located within the first fluid flow pathway 122 in the multiposition valve and rests on a portion of the multiposition valve adjacent to the ball seat. The telescoping sleeve 104 is held within the lower portion of the sub 106 by an outwardly biased shoulder 124 on the telescoping sleeve that travels within a cavity 126 created by an increased inner diameter of the sub. A biasing member 112 is located above the outwardly biased shoulder 124 on the telescoping sleeve 104 and within the cavity 126 formed by the telescoping sleeve 104 and the portion of the sub 106 with an increased inner diameter. Therefore, the biasing member 112 acts downward on the telescoping sleeve and allows for tolerance between the telescoping sleeve and the surfaces on the multiposition valve that it contacts. The inserted telescoping sleeve 104 within the multiposition valve 114 acts as a guide by preventing the ball 200 and fluid from entering other apertures 128 and 130 within the multiposition valve.
FIG. 1B illustrates an embodiment providing for the means of rotating the multiposition valve shown in FIG. 1A and FIG. 1C by a rack and pinion assembly 135. Two arms 132 extend from opposite sides of the inner sleeve's lower end. The ends of each arm possess teeth 134 that are aligned and positioned to engage gears 136 that are attached to the multiposition valve 114. Both the gears and the multiposition valve rotate in the same axis of rotation. FIG. 1B shows the position of the inner sleeve 118 as illustrated in FIG. 1A and FIG. 1C. Other known techniques known in the art may be utilized to provide the means of rotation for the multiposition valve 114. These techniques include but are not limited to linkage, levers, cams, torsion spring, and hydraulics.
An enlarged view of the tool shown in FIG. 1A is illustrated in FIG. 2A with a ball 200 seated on the ball seat 116. After the tool was in position and at a predetermined time, a ball 200 was dropped or pumped through the tubular from the surface. Since the inner diameter of the ball seat 116 is smaller than the outer diameter of the ball 200, the ball landed on the ball seat and obstructed the axial fluid flow path 202 to create a fluid seal above the ball and ball seat. Pressure above the ball seat can be increased to actuate a hydraulic tool such as a liner hanger (not shown). The pressure differential can be equalized once the hydraulic tool has been actuated. A small downward movement of the work string 108 is often utilized to disengage the setting tool upon completion of suspending the liner. This downward movement is transposed down through the work string 108, sub 106, and telescoping sleeve 104. Therefore, the biasing member 112 that keeps the telescoping sleeve in contact with the multiposition valve accommodates this movement. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1A, the biasing member 112 is a spring.
FIG. 3A shows the device in FIG. 1A after the work string 108 has been moved up from the surface of the well. Support of the liner's weight is transferred to the casing (not shown) after the liner hanger (not shown) suspends the liner. Releasing the liner running tool from the liner 100 (shown in FIG. 1A) allowed relative motion between the work string 108 and the liner. Axial movement of the work string 108 moved the sub 106 and telescoping sleeve 104 within the tool. Therefore, FIG. 3 shows the tool after the work string 108 has been raised a distance greater than the measure between the c-ring 110 and the top of the inner sleeve 118 when in the run in position. At this point, checking the weight on the work string verifies that the liner is properly hung off since the work string should be free of the load created by the liner. The upward movement of the work string 108 raised the telescoping sleeve 104 to a position above the multiposition valve 114. In the run in position of the tool, the c-ring 110 is held in a compressed state within a preformed profile 138 on the sub 106 by the inner diameter of the inner sleeve 118 preventing its expansion. Therefore, the c-ring has expanded to its relaxed state since it is now positioned above the inner sleeve. However, the inner diameter of the c-ring 110 remains smaller than the outer diameter of the sub 106, and the outer diameter of the c-ring 110 is now larger than the inner diameter of the inner sleeve 118. Thus, a portion of the top of the preformed profile 138 within the sub 106 contacts a portion of the top of the c-ring 110 and a section of the bottom of the c-ring 110 contacts a section of the top of the inner sleeve 118. The "X" 300 visible in FIG. 3A represents the convergence of the first fluid flow pathway 122, the fluid flow pathway two 128, and the fluid flow pathway three 130.
In FIG. 4A, the inner sleeve 118 has been moved axially downwards in relation to the outer member 120 in order to place the tool in its open position. Movement of the inner sleeve in relation to the outer member occurred by mechanical axially downward movement of the work string 108 from the surface. Axial movement of the work string also moved the attached sub 106 axially. The uncompressed c-ring 110 contacted with the sub 106 and inner sleeve 118 to transfer the sub's axial movement to the inner sleeve 118. Therefore, the work string 108, sub 106, c-ring 110, and inner sleeve 118 moved axially in unison through the outer member 120. The inner sleeve continued sliding through the outer member until the plurality of outwardly biased collet fingers 140 located on the top of the inner sleeve expanded into a preformed profile 142 on the outer member. Outward expansion of the collet fingers increased the inner diameter of the top portion of the inner sleeve. Therefore, the enlarged inner diameter of the inner sleeve is larger than the outer diameter of the uncompressed c-ring 110. Sliding the inner sleeve 118 from its run in position to the open position in FIG. 4 rotated the multiposition valve 114 approximately ninety degrees. The rotation positioned the ball 200 and ball seat 116 from being aligned in the axial fluid delivery bore 202 to a position adjacent to the axial fluid delivery bore. In the open position, fluid flow pathway two 128 and fluid flow pathway three 130 are apertures in the multiposition valve 114 that are aligned with the axial fluid delivery bore 202 to provide a substantially open passage through the multiposition valve. Initially, the ball 200 stays seated on the ball seat 116 during the rotation of the multiposition valve due to frictional contact between the ball 200 and ball seat 116. FIG. 4B depicts a view of the gear 136 on the multiposition valve 114 after the inner sleeve 118 has been lowered and the multiposition valve 114 has been subsequently rotated as shown in FIG. 4A and FIG. 4C. While the foregoing describes sliding the inner sleeve 118 with axial movement of the workstring, known methods of utilizing rotational movement of the workstring may be used to accomplish the same axial movement of the inner sleeve.
FIG. 5A illustrates the final position of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1A with the telescoping sleeve 104 inserted into the multiposition valve 114. Movement of the telescoping sleeve 104 into fluid flow pathway three 130 on the multiposition valve occurred by continued mechanical axially downward movement of the work string 108 from the surface. Due to the lack of contact between the c-ring 110 and the top of the inner sleeve 118, the work string 108 and sub 106 passed inside the inner sleeve 118 that was held in position on the outer member 120 by collet fingers 140 engaging the outer member 120. A lower portion of the telescoping sleeve 104 contacts a surface adjacent the fluid flow pathway two 128 on the multiposition valve. Therefore, the telescoping sleeve 104 traps the ball 200 within the multiposition valve thereby blocking the ball 200 from entering the axial fluid delivery bore 202 and closes other apertures on the multiposition valve in order to guide subsequent equipment (not shown) through the multiposition valve.
FIG. 6 illustrates an embodiment of the invention shown in FIG. 1A wherein the ball 200 (which could be a different size than the ball supposed to land in ball seat 116) is carried within the multiposition valve 114 in flow pathway two 128 or three 130 in the run in position of the tool. Upon operation of the tool resulting in flow pathway two 128 and flow pathway three 130 to be aligned with the main bore of the tool, the ball will be released in order to sealably land on a ball seat further downhole. In addition, one skilled in the art may envision a rotatable valve similar to the one described herein that possesses a closed portion in the place of the ball seat. One skilled in the art could also foresee a multiposition valve like the one described in FIGS. 1-6 that rotates to more than two positions.
Additionally, rather than rotating a valve to an open position, a valve could be utilized having at least one additional flow pathway with an axis therethrough that is parallel to the axis of a flow pathway having a ball seat therein. By shifting the valve components laterally, a second, substantially unobstructed flow pathway could be provided through the valve.
FIG. 7 represents another embodiment of the present invention. It shows a ball 700, a ball seat 702, a ball seat support member 704 annularly disposed around the ball seat in the position of FIG. 7, a sleeve 706 which is slidable and fixed to the ball seat with a lateral opening 708 therethrough and a stab 710 which is lockable to the sleeve and is mechanically fixed to the work string 712 which includes a lateral aperture 714 therethrough. The run in position for the tool would be the same as shown in FIG. 7 except that the ball 700 would not be present. FIG. 7 shows the device as it would appear in a wellbore after the ball 700 has been seated on the ball seat 702. The ball was dropped or pumped through the tubular from the surface after the tool was in position and at a predetermined time. The ball cannot pass beyond the ball seat since the inner diameter of the ball seat is smaller than the outer diameter of the ball. In this position, the ball sealably obstructs fluid flow in the axial fluid delivery bore 716. An o-ring 718 on the outside of the sleeve prevents fluid flow between the sleeve and outer member. Similarly, an o-ring 720 above the lateral port on the sleeve and an o-ring 722 below the lateral port 708 on the sleeve prevents fluid flow between the stab and the sleeve. Therefore, a fluid seal above the ball and ball seat allows this section of tubular to be pressurized in order to operate a hydraulic device such as a liner hanger. A lateral opening 714 located in the work string 712 provides a fluid path for pressurized fluid to travel to the hydraulic device (not shown). Once the hydraulic tool has completed its function, the increased pressure above the ball and ball seat can be relieved.
FIG. 8 shows the device of FIG. 7 with the stab 710 having been moved up in relation to the sleeve 706 in order to expose the lateral opening 708 in the sleeve to fluid pressure. Therefore, a fluid path between areas above and below the ball and ball seat has been created, and the pressure above and below the ball and ball seat has been equalized. Axial movement of the work string 712 (shown in FIG. 7) can be performed from the surface of the well. Thus, upward axial movement of the work string provided the movement of the attached stab relative to the sleeve. A portion of the stab with a decreased outer diameter forms an outwardly facing shoulder 724. Similarly, a plurality of collet fingers 726 on an upper portion of the inner sleeve 706 have a section of increased inner diameter that forms an inward facing shoulder 728. Also shown in the FIG. 8, the stab 710 has been raised until the outwardly facing shoulder 724 on the stab contacts the inwardly facing shoulder 728 on the inner sleeve 706.
FIG. 9 illustrates the next step in operation of the device in FIG. 7 whereby the stab 710, the sleeve 706, and the ball seat 702 have been raised in relation to the outer member 730 and the ball seat support member 704. Further upward movement of the work string placed the stab upward relative to the outer member. Upward movement of the sleeve in relation to the outer member is made possible by the contact between the outward shoulder on the stab contacting the inward shoulder on the sleeve. In FIG. 9, the sleeve has been raised until the outwardly biased collet fingers 726 on the sleeve contact a preformed profile 732 formed in the outer member 730. Similarly, one skilled in the art could envision using an outwardly biased c-ring instead of the collet fingers for engaging the outer member. FIG. 10 illustrates the device in a subsequent position showing the sleeve 706 fixed to the outer member 730 and stab 710 raised from its position in FIG. 9. At this point, checking the weight on the work string verifies that the liner is properly hung off since the work string should be free of the load created by the liner.
FIG. 11 shows the tool in FIG. 7 in its open position after the actual release of the ball downhole. Downward axial movement of the work string 712 (shown in FIG. 7) has moved the stab 710 axially downwards in relation to the sleeve 706 and the ball seat 702 which are secured to the outer member 730 by the expanded collet fingers 726 engaging the preformed profile 732 on the outer member. A lower portion of the stab comprises a ball seat engaging end 734 that has increased an inside diameter of the ball seat 702, permitting the ball 700 to fall free. The stab covers the inside of the expanded ball seat when the tool is in its open position. This creates a substantially open axial fluid delivery bore and protects subsequent equipment that passes through the tool. Further, one skilled in the art could envision a segmented lower portion of the stab with an initial inner diameter larger than the outer diameter of the ball. When this segmented lower portion of the stab engages the ball support it is collapsed down to an inner diameter smaller than the outer diameter of the ball in order to engage the ball and push it through the ball seat.
FIG. 12 illustrates another embodiment of the present invention. This figure shows a ball 1200, a ball support member 1202 with a ball seat 1204 positioned at a lower end, a ball seat support member 1206 with a ball seat support surface 1208 annularly disposed around the ball seat, a stab 1210, and a slidable sleeve 1212 secured to a top sub 1213 by a shear screw 1216. The top sub 1213 is connected to the upper outer member 1215 which is connected to the lower outer member 1214 to form the entire outer portion of the tool. A plurality of collet fingers 1218 on an upper portion of the stab 1210 are held within a preformed profile 1220 on the upper outer member 1215 due to the outer surface of the inner sleeve 1212 contacting the collet fingers and preventing them from moving out of the preformed profile. This secures the stab to the upper outer member. An upper portion 1222 of the ball support member 1202 possesses an increased outer diameter that engages an area of increased inner diameter of the lower outer member 1214. The ball seat support member 1206 extends upward from the ball seat support surface 1208 between the ball support member 1202 and the lower outer member 1214. Additionally, three longitudinally elongated apertures 1224 in the ball support member allow three keys 1226 to connect the ball seat support member 1206 to the stab 1210. FIG. 13 shows a cross section view of the tool across the area where the keys 1226 connect the ball seat support member 1206 to the stab 1210. The piston chamber 1228 is defined by a portion of the sleeve 1212 with a decreased outer diameter that passes inside a portion of the stab 1210 with an increased inner diameter. A lateral opening 1230 in the stab provides a fluid path for pressurized fluid to enter the piston chamber. Additionally, an o-ring 1232 circumscribing the stab and an o-ring 1234 circumscribing the sleeve seal the piston chamber. The o-ring 1234 around the sleeve separates fluid pressure between the piston chamber 1228 and the bore pressure chamber 1236. A second o-ring 1238 circumscribing the sleeve on the opposite end of the bore pressure chamber seals the bore pressure chamber from the rest of the tool. A portion of the upper outer member 1215 with a larger inner diameter than a portion of the sleeve 1212 with a decreased outer diameter and a lower portion of the top sub 1213 define the bore pressure chamber 1236. A lateral opening 1240 in the upper outer member adjoining the bore pressure chamber allows pressure equalization between the bore pressure chamber and the annular bore. The atmospheric, ATM, chamber 1242 is created between the stab 1210 and the upper outer member 1215 due to a cavity between an outwardly biased shoulder 1244 of the stab and the inward facing shoulder 1246 of the upper outer member. Since the ATM chamber is sealed prior to lowering the tool in the well, the gas within the ATM chamber remains at atmospheric pressure. An o-ring 1232 circumscribing the stab above the ATM chamber and an o-ring 1248 circumscribing the stab below the ATM chamber further seals the gas in the ATM chamber from the rest of the tool.
The run in position of this embodiment would be the tool as shown in FIG. 12 without the ball 1200. In the run in position, the ball seat 1204 has a smaller inner diameter than the outer diameter of the ball 1200. At a predetermined time once the tool is in position a ball was dropped or pumped through the bore in order to seal the axial fluid delivery bore 1256 by landing the ball on the ball seat. An o-ring 1250 circumscribing the ball support member adjacent to the ball seat provides a fluid seal between the ball support member 1202 and the ball seat support member 1206. Another o-ring 1252 circumscribing the ball seat support member 1206 prevents fluid passage between the ball seat support member and the lower outer member 1214. Therefore, fluid above the ball and ball seat can be pressurized to operate a hydraulic tool such as a liner hanger located above the ball and ball seat.
FIG. 14 shows the sleeve 1212 raised with respect to the upper outer member 1215 in the first step in opening the axial fluid delivery bore. The movement of the sleeve was accomplished when fluid pressure above the ball and ball seat was increased beyond the pressure required to actuate the hydraulic tool. The increased fluid pressure within the axial fluid delivery bore acted in an upward force on the sleeve 1212 due to the increased pressure in the piston chamber 1228 relative to the bore pressure chamber 1236. This increased pressure sheared the shear screw 1216 that attached the sleeve to the top sub and pushed the sleeve upward with respect to the top sub. The portion of the sleeve 1212 with an increased outer diameter that previously contacted the collet fingers 1218 has been moved past the collet fingers and thereby allowed the collet fingers to move inward and out of the performed profile 1220.
In FIG. 15, the stab 1210 and the ball seat support member 1206 have been moved axially downwards in relation to the ball support member 1202 and the lower outer member 1214. Under the increased pressure surrounding the ATM chamber 1242 while downhole, the ATM chamber volume collapsed once the collet fingers 1218 on the stab were liberated from the upper outer member and the stab was free to move. As a result, the stab moved downward until the shoulder 1244 of the stab that forms the top of the ATM chamber was proximate the shoulder 1246 of the upper outer member that forms the bottom of the ATM chamber. Since the ball seat support member 1206 is connected to the stab 1210 with three keys 1226, it traveled downward respectively with the stab. Therefore, the downward movement of the stab caused a lower portion of the stab comprising a ball seat engaging end 1254 to increase an inside diameter of the ball seat permitting the ball 1200 to fall free. In addition, one skilled in the art could envision a segmented stab with an initial inner diameter larger than the outer diameter of the ball, that when it engages the ball support it collapses down to an inner diameter smaller than the outer diameter of the ball in order to push the ball through the ball seat.
FIG. 16 illustrates another embodiment of the present invention. This figure shows a ball 1600, a ball support member 1602 with a ball seat 1604 at a lower portion thereof, a retaining member 1606, and an outer member 1608. Run in position for the tool would be the tool as shown in FIG. 16 without the ball 1600. A plurality of collet fingers 1610 on an upper portion of the ball support member 1602 engage a shoulder 1612 that is formed by a portion of the outer member 1608 with an increased inner diameter. The outer diameter of the retaining member 1606 contacts the inner diameter of the collet fingers and prevents their release from the shoulder 1612 on the outer member. Therefore, a securing assembly comprising the collet fingers 1610 and retaining member 1606 maintain the ball seat 1604 and ball support member 1602 in the run in position. At a predetermined time once the tool was in position a ball was dropped or pumped through the bore in order to seal the axial fluid delivery bore 1614 by landing the ball 1600 on the ball seat 1604. An o-ring 1616 circumscribing the inner diameter of the outer member prevents fluid flow between the ball support member and the outer member.
FIG. 17 shows the retaining member 1606 axially raised with respect to the outer member 1608 and ball support member 1602. Movement of the retaining member that is attached to the work string (not shown) was accomplished by axial movement of the work string from the surface. Since the retaining member 1606 has been moved out of contact with the collet fingers 1610, the collet fingers can move inward and out of the shoulder 1612 on the outer member. Fluid pressure above the ball 1600 and ball support member 1602, gravity, or a biasing member acting on the ball support member has moved the ball and ball support member axially with respect to the outer member 1608 as shown in FIG. 18. This movement continues until the ball and ball seat drop down the borehole creating an open axial fluid delivery bore 1614.
FIG. 19 shows another embodiment of the present invention. This figure shows a ball 1900, a ball support member 1902 with a ball seat 1904 at a lower portion thereof, a retaining member 1906, and an outer member 1908. Run in position for the tool would be the tool as shown in FIG. 19 without the ball 1900. A plurality of dogs 1910 on an upper portion of the ball support member 1902 engage a preformed profile 1912 that is formed by a portion of the outer member 1908 with an increased inner diameter. The outer diameter of the retaining member 1906 contacts the inner surface of the dogs 1910 and prevents their release from the preformed profile 1912 on the outer member. Therefore, a securing assembly comprising the dogs 1910 and retaining member 1906 maintain the ball seat 1904 and ball support member 1902 in the run in position. At a predetermined time once the tool was in position a ball was dropped or pumped through the bore in order to seal the axial fluid delivery bore 1914 by landing the ball 1900 on the ball seat 1904. An o-ring 1916 circumscribing the inner diameter of the outer member prevents fluid flow between the ball support member and the outer member.
FIG. 20 shows the retaining member 1906 axially raised with respect to the outer member 1908 and ball support member 1902. Movement of the retaining member that is attached to the work string (not shown) was accomplished by axial movement of the work string from the surface. Since the retaining member 1906 has been moved out of contact with the dogs 1910, the dogs can move inward and out of the preformed profile 1912 on the outer member. Fluid pressure above the ball 1900 and ball support member 1902, gravity, or a biasing member acting on the ball support member has moved the ball and ball support member axially with respect to the outer member 1908 as shown in FIG. 21. This movement continues until the ball and ball seat drop down the borehole producing an open axial fluid delivery bore 1914.
FIG. 22 shows another embodiment of the present invention. This figure shows a ball 2200, a ball support member 2202 with a segmented ball seat 2204 at an upper portion thereof, a support member 2206, and an outer member 2208. Run in position for the tool would be the tool as shown in FIG. 22 without the ball 2200. An inner diameter of the support member 2206 contacts an outer diameter of the ball seat 2204 and prevents radial outward expansion of the ball seat that would thereby increase the inner diameter of the ball seat. At a predetermined time once the tool was in position a ball was dropped or pumped through the bore in order to seal the axial fluid delivery bore 2210 by landing the ball 2200 on the ball seat 2204. An o-ring 2212 circumscribing the inner diameter of the outer member prevents fluid flow between the ball support member and the outer member.
FIG. 23 shows the support member 2206 axially raised with respect to the outer member 2208 and ball support member 2202. Movement of the support member that is attached to the work string (not shown) was accomplished by axial movement of the work string from the surface. Since the inner diameter of the support member 2206 has been moved out of contact with the outer diameter of the ball seat 2204, the ball seat segments are free to open up in the radial direction. Radial expansion of the ball seat increases the inner diameter of the ball seat 2204 until the ball 2200 is permitted to fall down hole as seen in FIG. 24.
FIG. 25 illustrates another embodiment of the present invention. This figure shows a ball 2500, a ball support member 2502 with a ball seat 2504 at a lower portion thereof, a retaining member 2506, and an outer member 2508. Run in position for the tool would be the tool as shown in FIG. 25 without the ball 2500. A plurality of dogs 2510 positioned at a lower end of the retaining member 2506 engage a preformed profile 2512 on the outside diameter of the ball support member 2502 and prevent axial movement of the ball seat and ball support member relative to the retaining member. The inside diameter of the outer member 2508 contacts the outside surface of the dogs 2510 and prevents their release from the preformed profile 2512 on the ball support member. Therefore, a securing assembly comprising the dogs 2510 and retaining member 2506 maintain the ball seat 2504 and ball support member 2502 in the run in position. An o-ring 2516 circumscribing the outer diameter of the ball support member prevents fluid flow between the ball support member and the outer member. FIG. 26 shows the retaining member 2506 axially moved to a position adjacent a section 2518 of the outer member 2508 with an increased inside diameter, thereby permitting the dogs 2510 to move outward and out of the preformed profile 2512 on the ball support member 2502. Therefore, fluid pressure above the ball and ball support member, gravity, or a biasing member acting on the ball support member can move the ball and ball support member axially as shown in FIG. 27. This axial movement continues until the ball and ball seat drop down the borehole creating an open axial fluid delivery bore 2514.
FIG. 28 illustrates another embodiment of the present invention. This figure shows a ball 2800, a ball support member 2802 with a ball seat 2804 at a lower portion thereof, a retaining member 2806, and an outer member 2808. Run in position for the tool would be the tool as shown in FIG. 28 without the ball 2800. A plurality of collet fingers 2810 positioned at a lower end of the retaining member 2806 engage a preformed profile 2812 on the outside diameter of the ball support member 2802 and prevent axial movement of the ball seat and ball support member relative to the retaining member. The inside diameter of the outer member 2808 contacts the outside diameter of the collet fingers 2810 and prevents their release from the preformed profile 2812 on the ball support member. Therefore, a securing assembly comprising the collet fingers 2810 and retaining member 2806 maintain the ball seat 2804 and ball support member 2802 in the run in position. An o-ring 2816 circumscribing the outer diameter of the ball support member prevents fluid flow between the ball support member and the outer member. FIG. 29 shows the retaining member 2806 axially moved to a position adjacent a section 2818 of the outer member 2808 with an increased inside diameter. This permits the collet fingers 2810 to expand outward and out of the preformed profile 2812 on the ball support member 2802. Therefore, fluid pressure above the ball and ball support member, gravity, or a biasing member acting on the ball support member can move the ball and ball support member axially as shown in FIG. 30. This axial movement continues until the ball and ball seat drop down the borehole creating an open axial fluid delivery bore 2814.


March 8, 2010 – The Boys & Girls Clubs of Syracuse is excited to announce a $6,789 grant from the Verizon Foundation, a philanthropic entity of Verizon Communications, for the Clubs' Power Hour Programs.
Power Hour is a comprehensive literacy program available to all Boys & Girls Clubs of Syracuse members ages 6 to 12 years of age. Power Hour provides youth with the support, resources and guidance necessary to improve their literacy skills and perform better in school. The Power Hour program is implemented in the Clubs with a teacher providing daily instruction. Power Hour enables each Club to provide extra educational support and focused assistance to at-risk members and those in need of motivation and direction. With the proper guidance and support, every Club member has the opportunity to be successful in school.
The Verizon Foundation has been a long-term partner with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Syracuse and the Power Hour program. The Foundation support has enabled the Clubs to continue to expand the impact of the program to reach more youth. Funding from the Verizon Foundation will be utilized to support the continued implementation of the Power Hour program at all of the Syracuse Club locations. Over 150 youth at Boys & Girls Clubs throughout Syracuse currently participate in the Power Hour program.


text:
Jamie Romeo, seeking to replace Adam Bello, announces run for Monroe County Clerk
Jamie Romeo, a Democrat, is the first candidate to declare in the county clerk's race. She won't seek re-election in the 136th Assembly District.
Jamie Romeo, seeking to replace Adam Bello, announces run for Monroe County Clerk Jamie Romeo, a Democrat, is the first candidate to declare in the county clerk's race. She won't seek re-election in the 136th Assembly District. Check out this story on DemocratandChronicle.com: https://www.democratandchronicle.com/story/news/2019/12/05/jamie-romeo-announces-run-monroe-county-clerk/2624782001/
Will Cleveland and Brian Sharp, Rochester Democrat and Chronicle Published 7:39 p.m. ET Dec. 5, 2019 | Updated 9:32 p.m. ET Dec. 5, 2019
State Assemblywoman Jamie Romeo has announced her intention to run for Monroe County Clerk in 2020.
Romeo announced her bid in an email to the Monroe County Democratic Committee, a copy of which was obtained by the Democrat and Chronicle Thursday.
"I am excited to confirm that I will be seeking the nomination for Monroe County Clerk in the 2020 cycle. With a strong partnership with the incoming Bello Administration, I believe the clerk's office must be a key component to seeing the transformational change our community has demanded at 39 West Main Street."
She later confirmed the announcement in a text message.
Romeo, 34, a Democrat from Irondequoit, is a first-term Assemblywoman for the 136th District. In the email she stated she wouldn't seek re-election for that seat. She replaced Joseph Morelle, who left the seat to run for Congress. Morelle currently represents New York's 25th Congressional District.
Jamie Romeo in a 2018 file photo. (Photo: JAMIE GERMANO/ROCHESTER DEMOCRAT AND CHRONICLE)
The 136th District covers Irondequoit, Brighton and portions of Rochester, including Charlotte. Assembly terms are two years, with a base salary of $110,000. The clerk term is for four years and pays $81,000.
Romeo is the first major party candidate to declare for the clerk's post. She is seeking to succeed Adam Bello, the former county clerk and Irondequoit town supervisor, who just defeated Cheryl Dinolfo for the county executive post.
More from 2018: Jamie Romeo wins Assembly primary; Errigo defeated
Gov. Andrew Cuomo must pick Bello's successor to complete the final year of the original four-year term. Cuomo's pick will have an immediate leg up on possible rivals in the 2020 election.
Romeo, a graduate of Irondequoit High School, previously served as the chairwoman of Monroe County Democratic Committee. She was also chief of staff to former state Sen. Ted O'Brien and worked in Monroe County government, rising to staff director for the Democratic Caucus of the county Legislature.
In the email, she said she was inspired to run for this office after witnessing the gains made by Monroe County Democrats in the most recent general election. Bello will become the first Democratic county executive in about 30 years and the Democrats closed the gap in the county Legislature. Republicans still hold a 15-14 edge in the chamber.
Jamie Romeo (Photo: Provided photo)
"The gains we have made for our community as Democrats would not be possible without the dedication and work of leaders like you," she wrote. "Our community is at a turning point; for the first time the decision-making process for so many local governments will not simply be a rubber stamp by one political party, but a community conversation. This is paramount to good governance."
She said she believes in the power of county government.
"My many years as staff in the Monroe County Legislature served to establish my belief that responsiveness to community needs and serving with integrity is the foundation of what it means to be a public servant.
Romeo holds a bachelor's degree in political science from St. John Fisher College and a master's degree in public administration from the College at Brockport.
WCLEVELAND@Gannett.com
Read or Share this story: https://www.democratandchronicle.com/story/news/2019/12/05/jamie-romeo-announces-run-monroe-county-clerk/2624782001/
It's not over yet, Rochester. How much more snow will we get?


Nice job Gabe. Thanks for sharing!
: : A couple buddies and I host a podcast on baseball and music. Last week, we were fortunate enough to interview Steve Gorman. Hope you dig it: : : http://www.rockchoo.com/rrssc-42-the-steve-gorman-interview/ : : GabeFu : Nice job Gabe. Thanks for sharing!


Thank you for participating in the Player's Voice Campaign (Part 2).
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More details will be announced at a later date.


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text:
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redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


E3 2017 is fast approaching and like every year gamers want to know what they can expect aside from the official plans announced by industry giants Sony, Microsoft and Nintendo. This article is going to focus on what we believe the console colossuses have in store for fans this year.
Based on what we know, it looks like E3 2017 will focus heavily on content and services over new hardware aside from Microsoft's big reveal of Project Scorpio. Even Microsoft, however, will focus most heavily on features and titles rather than the raw power of the new system in order to stay ahead of Sony in the console market.
With Microsoft showing off "Project Scorpio", Sony will need to demonstrate they still have a competitive edge. However, likely they will play their hand close to their chest, emphasizing content over new hardware. We can expect to see a vast array of new titles, with special emphasis on approaching AAA hard-hitters such as The Last of Us 2, Death Stranding, God of War, Uncharted: The Lost Legacy, and Days Gone.
With the recent release of the PS4 Pro, and the PS4 still sitting under the average five-year system lifetime, it would be prudent for Sony to keep any big announcements about the next system (tentatively, the PS5) under wraps until after this year's conference. The new importance placed on S-model systems, in the same vein as Apple's iPhone launch model, is likely to extend the launch window for new generations. After releasing an upgrade to it's current gen system, Sony has to keep consumers feeling like the upgrade was worth the purchase, and announcing a new system so soon would likely inspire those not yet convinced they need a 4K capable system to simply wait it out. Or, delay their purchase until the launch of the PS5 when they can get the Pro at a discounted price.
Sony will likely also hold off on releasing a new version of PSVR, which already had a performance upgrade of sorts with the PS4 Pro. PSVR has done well overall, selling more than 915,000 units as of February of this year. Sony will continue to ride this success, giving additional incentives for consumers to embrace the headset, and rewarding early adopters. We will likely see a PSVR and PS4 Pro bundle offered at a discounted price, along with an expanded library and a couple of larger titles. The motion controllers are long overdue for an upgrade, however, so it will not be surprising if Sony announces a newer model. Better controls matched with more titles and a couple of AAA hard-hitters will help move Sony's VR headset into more homes and build consumer confidence.
"We're steadily progressing on production. While we are making them, I apologize that the wait will be a bit longer for Kingdom Hearts III and Final Fantasy VII Remake. I am very sorry, but to that degree I will make a game that will meet your expectations.
So, it wouldn't be too far fetched to speculate that some new gameplay footage will make its way into this year's E3 presentation. Though the game is still in progress (and would be a spectacular launch title for the next-gen PlayStation), it would still be a strong card to play for Sony this year even if only to give fans a little more to chew on.
Finally, will Sony announce a replacement for the PS Vita? With their recent removal of the PlayStation Now streaming service from the system and the overall poor sales (only a little over 15 million units sold world-wide), along with the rise of mobile gaming, it seems likely Sony plans to continue to deemphasize the handheld. At most, we might see a remodeled Vita with only slightly better specs, or more colors, but likely Sony is trying to move away from the handheld market altogether and won't put much weight on the system aside from titles announced that will also be available on the Vita.
We already know that Nintendo plans to focus heavily on Super Mario Odyssey, much like they did at E3 2016 with The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. The other two titles that will garner most of the attention will be the upcoming fighting game ARMS and the squad-based multiplayer Splatoon 2.
Much like last year, Nintendo will showcase only a handful of new titles aside from those mentioned above, with the usual reveal of a reboot or new iteration of an older title. Likely, Nintendo will try to freshen things up by bringing back a recognizable, but less often updated classic akin to a new Kid Icarus.
In March of this year, My Nintendo offered rewards celebrating the 5-year anniversary of Kid Icarus: Uprising, which released in 2012, including videos and discounts on the Kid Icarus series. The series has had few entries, but has maintained a strong following over the years. While this doesn't necessarily point to the arrival of a new Kid Icarus for the Switch in 2017, Nintendo would be remiss to let the opportunity pass by and a new adventure for Pit would add to a strong lineup for the new system. If a new Kid Icarus is already in development or in the planning stages, we will definitely hear about it at this year's E3.
Aside from games, we will finally hear details on the Switch's online service, which will launch later this year. One of Nintendo's major focuses since the Wii has been interconnectivity and bringing people together around their system. There will be heavy emphasis on how this new service will benefit buyers not only through online multiplayer but through connectivity services such as chat, sharing, daily task management or life-style management integration, and streaming services.
The Switch has already done incredibly well in sales, with consumers purchasing 2.74 million units from March 3 to March 31 alone. Nintendo knows what works well for them, so we can expect more of the same this year, and likely until Nintendo sees another sales slump similar to that of the Wii U.
Right, but you already knew that.
Microsoft will be using their new system as their heavy-hitter. This means a handful of (tentative) launch titles will be announced along with the big system reveal in order to wet the appetites of fans. We will finally get to hear the actual name of the system, its price, and release date. This presentation will likely not focus too heavily on specs (which have already been publically released), but more on demonstration and some developer spiels on how much they love working with the system (as we have come to expect). You can also reasonably presume to see the new Forza running in crisp, clear 4K resolution as a demonstration of the system's power and performance since the series tends to run in two-year cycles. However, Project Scorpio likely will not take up a major portion of the presentation so Microsoft can focus on two areas in which they either already have the competitive edge on Sony, or on which they are trying to build an edge.
Backwards compatibility has become a major focus and Microsoft has been giving fans what they wanted with the XBOX One by building a library of XBOX 360 games that can be played on the system. A few strong titles added to this collection (preferably a few from the original system) will be a major selling point for both the XBOX One and Scorpio, and will help bolster the image Microsoft has been building of being a more consumer-friendly company than their competitor.
Another major focus will be features that will build off of the original pitch for the XBOX One, which was making the console the center of the home. Though this pitch never materialized, largely due to the failure of the Kinect, integration with Microsoft's digital assistant Cortana could truly put the system at the center of the living room. Users could utilize the system much like Google Home or Amazon Echo, except with the added benefit of controlling console features. If the system's Cortana integration will be able to use features when the TV is off, then this would give Microsoft a way to push consumers to keep the console connected to the internet at all times. The original "always on" requirements for the XBOX One did not go over well with consumers, so Microsoft had to take a step back. If the system could be utilized as a hub for things such as home control, home monitoring, or even voice search using Cortana when the TV is off (either through a Bluetooth speaker or system speakers), then consumers would have motivation to keep the system connected online at all times without it being a requirement.
We can also expect to see what Microsoft has up its sleeves regarding virtual reality. Now that Microsoft has had the leisure of observing Sony's success with VR, E3 2017 will be an ideal time to announce plans for their own dive into the VR market. Microsoft announced a partnership with Oculus in 2015, and it is unlikely that the company would sever that relationship to go on it's own when working with Oculus has already proven lucrative. The partnership gives Microsoft an edge on the PC VR market they might not have if they went solo. We can expect to hear about future Microsoft cooperation with Oculus for PC. In addition, Microsoft is more likely to announce a lower-end headset for use with the XBOX One and Scorpio consoles created in cooperation with Oculus much like Samsung has done with the Gear VR.
Microsoft has the greatest opportunity this year to direct the future of the console market, particularly if they can achieve the home-integration they originally envisioned for the XBOX One. Sony will press harder on the content side using variety as a selling point for their existing systems. Nintendo will carry on with the same structure they used last year and we can expect to see at least one new title (a new Kid Icarus seems likely, but we shall see).
The battle for the latest and greatest next generation system is evolving. Upgrades are coming faster, but in smaller leaps with the introduction of S-model systems. But, raw power alone will no longer cut it. Companies have to demonstrate an ever-increasing stream of content, interconnectivity and home integration. This E3 might not feature any huge surprises on the hardware front, but it will definitely set the stage for the future of the ongoing competition for console king.


My Strawberry Mango Avocado Salad over Arugula is a refreshing tropical salad that should be enjoyed when fruits are at their peak! If you are lucky enough to live in the tropics, or live near a good farmers market or organic grocery store, this salad can be enjoyed year-round. I found fresh mangoes, ripe avocados and super sweet strawberries for sale in my local Whole Foods Market yesterday.
I've always loved ripe strawberries, mangoes and avocados. And eating them all together in a salad is even better. Growing up in California in my early school years, I vividly remember the abundance of local produce stands alongside the road. It seemed like you couldn't drive down a country road without coming across several displays of local farmers' bounty. I loved to eat strawberries, warm from the vine. My dad used to grow strawberries in his California kitchen garden. I've tried to grow strawberries here in my Virginia kitchen garden. Between the squirrels and the birds, getting any ripe berries is a challenge!
Mangoes and avocados are super tasty when ripe. When overripe, both tend to become mushy. Be sure to select prime specimens. You may prefer to purchase pre-cut mangoes. Their oddly-shaped pits sometimes make them difficult to cut.
The produce stockers at my local Whole Foods Market probably think I'm nuts. I always pick up the individual packages of berries and smell them. If the berries smell sweet and wonderful, I'll select those berries for purchase. If they smell sour or just a bit past their prime, I won't purchase them. That's my usual berry-picking method and it's worked well for me.
Strawberries are the stars in my Strawberry Mango Avocado Salad over Arugula. Just halve some ripe strawberries, cube some mango and avocado, slice some scallions, chop some cilantro, and toss with my Lime Cilantro Dressing. Top with some sliced green scallion tops and season with a little freshly cracked black pepper.
1. Divide the arugula between two plates.
2. In a non-metallic bowl, carefully mix together the strawberries, mango, avocado, most of the scallions, and cilantro or parsley. Add the dressing and lightly combine.
3. Top the arugula with the fruit mixture.
4. Garnish with the remaining sliced scallions. Season with salt and pepper.
Serves 2 as a salad or main course.
Variations: Add some other in-season berries such as blueberries or blackberries. Sweet summertime peaches are another great addition to this salad, and can substitute for mangoes. Add papaya or pineapple cubes for an additional tropical kick.


text:
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Aspis Security Ltd is the largest subsidiary within the Aspis Group. We provide trained and licensed security personnel to many of the UK's leading businesses. At Aspis Security, our services are designed to provide a proactive and trusted security solution for our clients and to partner with them in the provision of solutions to their security needs. With a network of offices located throughout the UK, your security solution is only a call away.
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Latest News From Aspis Cleaning
COMAH Regulations 2015
New measures imposing greater obligations on firms facing industrial accidents are now in force – and FMs must know their responsibilities, says Rhian Gilligan. – 16 July 2015 | By Rhian Gilligan The latest incarnation of the the Control of Major Accident Hazards (COMAH) regulations was introduced on 1 June. Based on the Seveso III Directive, the new regime will see UK law harmonise with the globally agreed approach to labelling chemicals. The business of regulating such high-hazard industries is detailed and onerous. This article examines the key changes and identifies the steps you need to take now to secure compliance. The origins of COMAH explain the necessity for tight controls. The directives followed a disaster in the Italian town of Seveso in 1976, when around six tonnes of the...
Legionella – Controlling the risks
Two recent criminal prosecutions against NHS trusts highlight the importance of ensuring that proper control measures are put in place to protect people from being exposed to the legionella bacteria, says Matthew Taylor. 16 July 2015 | By Matthew Taylor The case – on 11 June 2015, Brighton and Sussex University Hospital NHS Trust was fined £50,000 and ordered to pay £38,705.60 in costs for failing to control legionella at its hospital. Cancer patient Joan Rayment, 78, had contracted an infection while being treated in hospital. An inquest found that the legionella had been appropriately treated, however, it was found that the infection could have hastened her death. The court was told that although the trust was monitoring legionella and water temperatures across its various sites, a t...
Asbestos Must Be Eradicated From Public Buildings
A proposed asbestos bill could make it compulsory for the deadly building material to be removed from public premises, delegates at a conference heard last month. John McClean, national health and safety officer at trade union GMB, told delegates at the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health's annual conference, that the Trades Union Congress (TUC) had put together an asbestos bill before the general election. McClean said: "The next stage will be to wait for when the ballot for the Private Members Bill comes… The Private Members' Bill is usually taken by a backbench MP… and sometimes you can persuade an MP to take your bill up… Like asbestos removal this [process] won't happen in a few weeks, this will be an ongoing [campaign]." But if the bill does make it into law...
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Stonebridge Property Group launch National Asia Practice Platform
Pandemic drives slowdown in private off-shore Asian investors, whist Domestic Asian investors remain active
The COVID-19 pandemic has driven a fall in private off-shore Asian investors, however Australia's commercial property markets can look forward to new wave of investment once travel restrictions are lifted, according to national commercial agency Stonebridge Property Group's newly launched Asia Practice team.
Data from the team's Directors Kevin Tong and Chao Zhang, who have completed transactions in excess of $3 billion to Asian buyers over the last five years, reveals a dramatic decline in the number of private off-shore Asian investors in 2020 compared to 2019, whilst domestic Asian investors have significantly increased.
"This fall is directly related to travel restrictions. Communications with our extensive Asian community networks, which we have built up over the last 10 years, reveals a hungry off-shore cohort eagerly awaiting any lift in travel restrictions which will allow them to invest in Australian stock.
"Hong Kong is a great example of cashed-up Asian investors wanting to invest in Australia. We witnessed a hive of activity pre-COVID-19 with several key transactions early in 2020 to Hong Kong based investors – investors who are now essentially sitting on the sidelines waiting for the borders to open up.
" The only hurdle we see for a high volume of sales activity to this buyer profile is a lack of available stock. In the instance that supply levels across all sectors does not normalise in 2021, we anticipate the unexpected price escalation as a result.,'' Mr Tong said.
He said the low cost of debt had been a key driver in the re-emergence of domestic Asian investors.
Below is a table analyzing transactions to Asian investors in Commercial Property (Retail, Commercial & Industrial)
Asian investment International Asian investors (REITs and Funds) International Asian investors (Private) Domestic Asian investors*
2019 41% 40% 19%
Source: Stonebridge Property Group Asia Practice team.
*Groups that have migrated to Australia within the last 10 years.
Mr Zhang said the Asia Practice team – one of the most experienced Asia-dedicated commercial agency teams nationally – was excited about the launch of the national business.
"Having witnessed the growth of the Asian buyer profile in commercial property first hand we believe this national platform will provide the most comprehensive Asia specific service available.
"Over the last 10 years we've established firm, long lasting, and mutually beneficial relationships within the Asian communities both in Australia and off-shore. In doing so we have built an enviable network and first rate system that provides vendors with the opportunity to expose their properties to the widest possible pool of Asian investors locally and offshore,'' Mr Zhang said.
He said the maturity of the Asia buyer profile over the years had seen their requirements become much more asset specific.
"Once an almost purely passive investment cohort, Asian buyers have, particularly over the last few years, broadened their investment horizons to include assets, for example, providing long-term site development potential as well as attractive yields.
"Our response has been to develop specialised agents in each sector including retail, development sites, and other markets," added Mr. Tong.
The Asia Practice launch follows the recent launch of Stonebridge Property Group's Melbourne team headed by Justin Dowers and Julian White.
About Stonebridge
Stonebridge was formed in Sydney in 2008 by directors Jonathan Fox, Carl Molony, Phil Gartland and Lincoln Blackledge.
The group quickly established themselves as a major force in the sale of shopping centres and development sites in Australia and New Zealand. Recent sales include last month's $150 million sale of Glenmore Park Town Centre to HomeCo, and the $46 million sale of a large-format retail centre at 300 Parramatta Road, Auburn in March.
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Welcome to Whinny Widgets, LLC!
Whinny Widgets is a company dedicated to producing innovative products that enhance the lives of riders of many disciplines, not just Dressage, which of course is our specialty. Dressage is an excellent foundation for whatever direction your future riding leads you. Please take the time to explore our unique selection of products.
Whinny Widgets laminated Dressage test books are formatted for callers as well as riders in an easy to ready print size with arena diagrams in the lower levels. Our books are available for Dressage, Eventing Dressage, Western Dressage and Reining. We offer individual level pocket size books and the larger all inclusive Instructors' books. To keep your books and treats handy, book/treat pouches are also available.
Larger size 8 1/2" x 11" Big Print Dressage Test Books feature extra-large type. Laminated & spiral bound.


text:
Q: Join array with multiple whitespaces I have an array ["hello", "there", "buddy"] and I want to join these strings together. The issue is that I want to join them together with multiple white-spaces, specifically three of them. My code runs as
sentence = sentence.join("   ")

However, instead of returning
hello   there   buddy

it returns as
hello there buddy

How do I fix this?

A: It just works as expected:
p ["hello", "there", "buddy"].join("   ")
# => "hello   there   buddy"

A:
The text is within a li tag. The page source shows
*Hello there buddy

The problem is that browsers collapse whitespace runs between words. You can see this, and counter it, a couple ways.

1   2   3

displays with multiple spaces here on Stack Overflow, and consequently your browser, because I told it to use code formatting. I can do it also with:
1   2   3
which tells the browser to display using
 formatting, which, again, is a fixed-width font which respects the whitespaces.
If you don't use a fixed-width format designed to preserve whitespace, you have to get tricky.
In HTML you can use a non-breaking space:
1   2   3
which, in HTML looks like:
1   2   3

If I'd used regular whitespace it would look like:
1   2   3
There are CSS games that can be played too, but using   is probably the most common.
To try this at home, save the following to a file called "test.html" and open it with your browser:

collapsed    whitespaces   here

non-breaking   spaces   here

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


text:
Could Virginia drop voter drop boxes?
RADIO IQ | By Michael Pope
Jahd Khalil/Radio IQ
In the last few years, Virginia has made many changes to how elections work. There are efforts to roll back some of those changes.
The idea of the ballot drop box has its critics, people who say it's a drag on local governments for something that isn't even used all that much. Delegate John McGuire is a Republican from Goochland who says it's time to drop the drop boxes.
"There's a large amount of the electorate that does not trust our elections," McGuire says.
He got some pushback on the bill to abolish drop boxes when he presented the idea to a subcommittee this week. Delegate David Reid is a Democrat from Loudoun County.
"We're talking in anecdotal examples, a large amount of the population does not trust our elections," Reid said. "Can you quantify that?"
McGuire responded that it's clearly evident in the media, and that he hears about it from voters on the campaign trail.
"You have no information, no quantifiable information to support this," asked Reid.
"Well, I've spoken with registrars across the Commonwealth, and these registrars said they are expensive, and they are not used that much," McGuire replied. "I don't have the numbers with me today."
Those numbers were not needed in a Republican-controlled panel that passed his bill on a party-line vote. If it gets through the House, it'll likely face a more difficult time in a Senate controlled by Democrats.
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Michael Pope
Michael Pope is an author and journalist who lives in Old Town Alexandria.
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