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BUDOCK VEAN HOTEL: A CUT ABOVE THE REST

By Mike May

The Budock Vean Hotel (BudockVean.co.uk; [email protected]), located along the south coast of Cornwall, may not be the biggest hotel in England or the newest hotel in England, but it definitely ranks as one of the finest, first-class, most relaxing holiday destinations in merry, ole’ England.

Because the Budock Vean’s valley garden leads down to the Helford River, this property is simply known as the ‘The Hotel on the River.’ Very few hotels can easily and efficiently cater to the different needs of its guests as well as the Budock Vean does. Some guests simply want to rest, unwind, and get immersed in a good book while relaxing in the conservatory while other guests want an activity based getaway featuring golf, tennis, fishing, open water swimming, boating and kayaking. And, for those who enjoy being in sync with Mother Nature while on holiday, there are two of Cornwall’s best gardens – Trebah and Glendurgan – which are located just a hop, skip, and a jump away from the hotel’s front entrance.  Guests also have easy access to the coastal footpath that will give them a wonderful view of the nearby Cornish coastline.

The inexact nature of this hotel’s address (Near Helford Passage, Mawnan Smith, near Falmouth, Cornwall) adds to the allure and mystique of this property which is, admittedly, a little off the beaten path. But, it’s worth making the journey to this marvelous, detail-conscious, boutique-like hotel located along the southern coast of England’s most southwesterly county.

If you prefer a vacation where you wish to be pampered and treated like royalty, then you should take advantage of every treatment available at the Budock Vean’s Natural Health Spa. They include massages, facials, manicures, pedicures, and salt scrubs. You will also have to make time to enjoy the sauna and the outdoor hot tub, as well as the indoor pool.

And, if there’s a special occasion which necessitates a special bottle of wine, flowers, and chocolates, those can be delivered to your room or waiting for you in your room, upon arrival.

Whether you are relaxing or having an out-and-about type of vacation, you will undoubtedly develop an appetite for the first-class cuisine that is prepared every day for the guests at the Budock Vean Hotel. It’s worth noting that this hotel has earned an AA Rosette Award for its delicious food and first-class service. In addition to dining in the restaurant, guests can enjoy lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner in the cocktail bar, terrace, and conservatory.

“The Budock Vean Hotel has echoes of a country house from an Agatha Christie-type novel.  I loved it. I remember the lovely grounds going right down to the river Helford,” said Jill Evans of Glastonbury, a former guest at the hotel.

Budock Vean River Aquatics

It’s worth noting that actor Aiden Turner, the lead character (Ross Poldark) in the popular Poldark television series, has stayed at the Budock Vean Hotel.  It was a memorable visit, to say the least.

“There was a rush of volunteers amongst our female staff to take his (room service) order up to his room!” recalled Martin Barlow, owner and managing director, Budock Vean Hotel.

The rooms are second-to-none at the Budock Vean. Everybody who plans to stay for a week usually wishes that they had made plans to stay for a month. In addition to being beautifully designed and decorated, these rooms have every modern convenience that you can imagine or will ever want. The standard extras include flat-screen remote control TV, free wi-fi, an iPod docking station, telephone, hair dryer, Elemis spa toiletries, and tea & coffee making machines. You are encouraged to use and enjoy the bathrobes and slippers which you will find in each room. And, of course, a complementary bottle of Cornish water can be found in every room, as well. Those bottles of water can be consumed on the premises or taken home as a souvenir from your Cornish getaway.

When it comes to getting some sleep, there are three room types to choose from — the more traditional décor of the Standard and Superior rooms or the contemporary luxury of the newly refurbished Signature rooms. As you would expect, the Signature and Superior rooms have better views of the golf course and hotel gardens.

If ‘Fido’ wants to tag along when you visit the Budock Vean Hotel, then he or she is welcome, as long as you notify the hotel in advance that your four-legged, fur-covered companion is planning on making the trip to Cornwall, as well.

There are two other forms of accommodation here at the Budock Vean, which are great for small groups or families planning some type of big get-togethers or family reunions. They are the 5-star Gold Award modern holiday homes which include a luxury kitchen and can sleep six in three double/twin en-suite bedrooms.

Or, you can stay at the 4-star rated more traditional older style cottages and lodges.  These lodges have specific names: Old 19th, Beaver’s Dam, Beaver’s Lodge, and Badger Cottage. These are self-catering properties which are pet-friendly and allow full access to the amenities of the hotel.

Throughout the year, this hotel caters to guests who have a mutual interest in specific activities. The special events include the ever-popular Bridge and Golf Breaks in April, October and November; a Watercolour Painting break in March; Yoga Weekend in mid-November; Gourmet Weekends in early March and late November; and special events during Christmas and New Year’s to enjoy the holidays.

When visiting this hotel, bring your golf clubs so you can enjoy the Budock Vean Golf Club.  Designed in the 1920s by five-time (British) Open Champion James Braid, this is a wonderfully designed nine-hole parkland golf course which has been constructed on rolling landscape, complemented by a beautiful mix of mature trees and flowering shrubs. This course’s close proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and the Helford River also provide a refreshing breeze.

Even though the Budock Vean GC is just a nine-hole layout, golfers are offered a genuine 18-hole experience, as there’s a different set of tees for the front nine and the back nine. Not only is there a different set of tees for every hole, the distance of each hole on the front nine are different from the distance of its back-nine ‘partner.’ And, every hole has a different name, as well. The names are special and creative, such as Hickman Hill (1st), John’s Joy (8th), Admiral’s Island (12th), and Little Beauty (17th).

“Although we are only nine holes, it is a cracking little course,” says Barlow.  “In this day and age with golf having to fight harder than ever to attract new players, both young and old, we have been working hard to promote the nine-hole game, now that England Golf has permitted handicaps to be established over nine holes and for nine-hole competitions.”

If you want to enjoy one of England’s finest hotels, which is truly a cut above the rest, call today (01326 252100) to reserve a room where you will thoroughly enjoy all the amenities of ‘The Hotel on the River.’

How to Be Alone

By Carly Cantor

Summer doesn’t have to be a season of envy, but rather self-improvement. Utilize your alone time to do something that makes you happy. 

Feeling isolated during the summer months isn’t uncommon. You may see people on the internet constantly posting about their hangouts with friends, but you aren’t alone. School made it so friends were constantly accessible, so it’s difficult to adjust to having to communicate via text or call. Currently, I’m feeling sort of like this too. It’s hard to coordinate plans with people, especially during summer because everybody is away on vacation. It can make one feel like they’re stuck, unable to do anything during the one time of year where they’re supposed to be having fun. That’s why I believe it’s important to be able to be comfortable by yourself. No, I’m not going to provide solutions to a problem I can’t solve myself. That’s simply unrealistic. However, I can give advice on a subject I know quite well: being alone.

            I’m not like those loner characters on television. The way that I differ is that, unlike many characters, I adore my alone time. This may be hard to believe, but sometimes I actually prefer to be alone than with other people. Personally, in my mind, I have broken the ideology that being alone is unhealthy or bad. Having time to yourself is extremely important, and I just can’t toss that aside because others are opinionated. Being alone may be uncomfortable to some people, and I can understand that. However, being able to overcome that feeling is crucial. You’re not always going to be able to have people around you, especially during summer. 

            The first step is to make it so your life is one you enjoy. Make a smoothie, watch that show you’ve been meaning to binge, go enjoy activities that can be done alone. The second step is to stop caring about other people’s lives. You live your own, no need to look at somebody else’s. If you’re comfortable with your life, you won’t have to envy other people. 

            Now, here are some alone-time activities that I, personally, love.

  1. Baking. I know all hopeless romantics dream of baking with a lover, but I actually prefer to do it alone. Baking is something that while enjoyable, it takes a lot of precision and focus. It’s a great hobby for those who love sweets and for those who love creating things.
  2. Reading. There is absolutely no other feeling like sitting down with a book and reading. Play some music in the background, brew some tea, and pick up that book you’ve never had time to read. 
  3. Watch TV. I’m aware that out of the options I’ve stated so far, this is the least productive. However, settling down to watch a show while alone can be calming. Before writing this article, I just did. I sat on my couch and watched a show I haven’t watched in quite some time. It was relaxing. I recommend not doing this all the time, of course. But, also not to rule it out completely.
  4. Exercise. Working out can be incredibly fun. And, of course, it is one of the many things I prefer to do alone. When I was younger, my favorite thing to do was to go on bike rides through my neighborhood by myself. I used to live in a neighborhood with a golf course, so I would ride over and sit by myself on the grass. I would listen to music and eat snacks I packed. Then, I would go over to my friend’s house and say hello, then head home. Working out doesn’t have to be hardcore, it can simply be taking a ride on your bike at sunset. However, gym workouts are also quite enjoyable. I prefer using equipment over home workouts. Not only is exercise a great hobby, it’s also healthy.

            I could go on, but that would be unnecessary. Your life is for you to shape, those were simply suggestions to get started. Summer doesn’t have to be a season of envy, but rather self-improvement. Utilize your alone time to do something that makes you happy. 

Sincerely, your local teen talk writer,

Carly Cantor

A Detailed Attic Cleaning Guide You Won’t Find Elsewhere on the Internet

By Eada Hudes

Your home’s attic is one of the most difficult places to keep clean. Attics are often cluttered, dusty, and full of spider webs.

Most people only think about cleaning their attic when they need to get rid of something. However, there are a few good reasons to clean your attic regularly.

For example, it can help you avoid fire hazards, keep your home free of pests, and improve indoor air quality. If you’re looking for a detailed guide on cleaning your attic, you’ve come to the right place. This article discusses seven cleaning tips no expert will tell you. Read on.

Get Organized

Getting organized means creating a system for storing your belongings.

Invest in some heavy-duty shelving or storage bins. Label everything, so you know where it goes. And make sure to keep the area around your furnace and water heater clear. These are both fire hazards that could be made worse by clutter. Boca Raton Junk Removal companies can help eliminate anything you don’t need.

Remove Junk and Debris

Your attic will accumulate dust, dirt, and debris over time. This can create a fire hazard, so it’s important to remove it regularly.

  • Start by sweeping the floor with a broom or vacuum.
  • Wipe down all surfaces with a damp cloth. Be sure to get into all the nooks and crannies.
  • Take everything out of your attic and give it a good cleaning. This includes furniture, boxes, storage bins, and anything else that’s been collecting dust.

Inspect for Pests

Pests love attics because they’re dark, quiet, and full of food (in the form of insulation). Regularly inspect your attic for pests, such as droppings, nests, and chewing damage. If you find pests, you must call a professional exterminator immediately. They will be able to get rid of the pests and help you prevent them from coming back.

Clean Your Gutters

Your gutters play an important role in protecting your attic from water damage. Make sure they are free of leaves, sticks, and other debris. If they’re not, water could back up and leak into your attic during a rainstorm.

Cleaning your gutters is dirty, but it must be done regularly. You can either do it yourself or hire a professional gutter cleaning service.

Inspect for Water Damage

Water damage is one of the most common problems in attics. It can be caused by leaks, condensation, or flooding. If not fixed, water damage can lead to mold growth. Check your attic for signs of water damage, such as stains on the ceiling, walls, or floor. Also, look for peeling paint or wallpaper, musty odors, and warped wood.

If you find any water damage, it’s important to fix the problem immediately. Otherwise, it could get worse and cause serious health problems.

Fix Leaks

Leaks are one of the most common causes of water damage in attics. Faulty plumbing, cracked roofs, or damaged gutters could be the main culprits of leaking attics. If you suspect a leak, it’s important to have it fixed immediately to prevent water damage and mold growth.

Insulate Your Attic

Proper insulation is essential for keeping your attic cool in the summer and warm in the winter. It can also help to reduce noise levels. Check your attic insulation and make sure it’s in good condition. If it’s not, you may need to add more or replace it entirely.

Final Word

Cleaning your attic may not be the most fun task on your to-do list, but it’s important for the safety and health of your home. Use these tips to get the job done quickly and easily. And don’t forget to call a professional if you find any signs of damage.

***

Eada Hudes is an Arts student whose experiences in life make her really tougher than anyone else. She can lend you expert tips on diverse topics ranging from relationship to fashion, home, technology, making money, health and so on.

The Future of Facials

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By Devi Ramprasad for Khanna Connections

A common complaint amongst many is the lack of knowledge about the importance of SPF earlier in life. And by the time you realize the importance, the sun has already burned you to a fine crisp. After the effects of acne and lack of SPF arise, people tend to seek out 2-in-1 solutions frantically, and some give up altogether. 

But your skin deserves the extra chance that your ex-high school boyfriend didn’t. Only this time, you won’t regret it. 

I decided to join in searching for skin care solutions and came across the JetPeel facial. If you know me, you know I’m a sucker for facials, but this one seemed like it was on another level. And I was right. 

During the treatment, pressurized streams of air penetrate the deep layer of your skin, called the dermis, to deliver cleansers and serums. Your dermis is made up primarily of collagen and provides your skin with structure and elasticity. Loss of collagen is one factor that causes your skin to age. Jet peel facials help boost collagen and restore elasticity, reducing the appearance of aging and delivering same-day results. As much as I wanted to run for the hills after hearing the procedure details, I was intrigued. And according to Elle, “It [JetPeel Facial] sounds intense, but a jet peel facial isn’t as harsh as the title suggests.” As I educated myself, I learned that these peels are actually needle-less. And after Nerisha Penrose, a reporter for Elle finished her JetPeel session, her skin was ‘clean’ and ‘shining.’ Despite hearing this, I was still skeptical about how it would work for everyone else because, from what I learned, skincare is not one size fits all. But my doubts were put to rest when I discovered that JetPeels work on all skin types. Now I was convinced that you would walk out of the spa doors a new person. Now, which spa doors? 

It seemed like a reach to visit a local spa as this treatment looks fit for celebrities and would put anyone less than a B-List on the see-ya list. The philosophy that gas money shouldn’t cost more than the actual service was ringing in my ears as I searched for local spas. A couple of years ago, anyone would’ve been packing their bags to get this service, but now this treatment is accessible to locals. Shelly Nunez, the owner of Celebrity Lashes and Makeup, offers this treatment to help her clients look and feel their best from the inside out. “The sun is one of the most damaging elements to the skin. Jet peel facials have the potential to reverse a lot of damage relatively quickly. So it was important to us to bring this level of advanced technology locally,” says CEO and aesthetician Shelly Nunez. Keep on wearing SPF, but from now on, the only thing it stands for is Super Pretty Face.

Devi Ramprasad

Using Citrus to Clean Your Home

By Cristian DeRusha, Arden Farm Director

Summer in South Florida is here, and whether you’re getting outside more often or you have kids home from school, you may be doing a bit more cleaning than usual. Prices on everything from gas to cleaning supplies are skyrocketing, but there’s a great way to save on some of those costs. If you keep citrus fruits in your home, you already have a natural cleaner that costs less than the typical chemical or all-natural cleaners at the store.

When mixed with household staples like vinegar and baking soda, citrus like lemons, limes, grapefruits, and – the Florida favorite – oranges, can go from culinary ingredients to a cleaning hack in minutes, leaving your home sparkling clean and zesty fresh!

Here are a few out-of-the-box and outside-the-kitchen ways you can use citrus fruits around your home.

Lemon

Did you know that lemons have strong bleaching properties? This makes this specific citrus a laundry room must-have. And, in addition to removing stains to brightening your whites, lemons will leave everything from bedsheets to t-shirts smelling super fresh. Just add a squeeze to your next load of laundry for sparkling whites, or to your next dishwasher cycle to cut through dirt on your dishes.

Lemons are also great to get rid of stains. Cut a lemon in half, sprinkle salt on the open face, and use it like a sponge on copper, countertops, or dark stains on clothing.

Oranges

Every home needs an all-purpose cleaner, and oranges provide the perfect base for an all-natural version. Once you’ve consumed the edible part of your orange, you can use the peels in this simple, but effective cleaning solution.

In a jar or spray bottle, pour white vinegar over the orange peels and let the mixture sit. After about two weeks, remove your peels and dilute your new mixture with water. If you don’t want to wait that long for great-smelling cleaner, mix vinegar, water, and freshly squeezed citrus in a spray bottle. Use this solution on ceramic, stone, marble, or granite. Not to mention that you can switch up your scents easily by adding cinnamon sticks, cloves, or extracts to your mixture.

Grapefruit

Not only grapefruit is one of the healthiest citrus fruits you can eat, but it is also the best natural cleaner for your bathroom. Cut your grapefruits in half, salt the open halves and use it as a make-shift sponge. Use the fruit in your bathtub to get rid of bathtub rings or in the shower to scrub off dried soap and water stains. Move to the counter and the grapefruit will return your toothpaste-stained sink to its glistening glory.

This summer, citrus is not just for eating or cooking with. The acidity in lemons, oranges, and grapefruits makes them perfect for breaking down dirt and grime around your house. So next time you’re restocking your cleaning supplies, skip the chemicals and try natural citrus instead!

***

Cristian DeRusha is an organic farming expert and the Farm Director at Arden, an award-winning residential agrihood in Palm Beach County, FL. Cris is bringing his global farming experience to South Florida to strengthen access to organic produce and a farm-to-table lifestyle in the community.

5 Ways to Celebrate the Fourth

By Briana D’Andrea

Summer is upon us and here are 5 ways to celebrate the 4th!

‘Merica! Land of the free and home of the brave! Now that summer is upon us, it’s time to bleed red, white and blue and celebrate what makes the U.S.A so spectacular! Here are 5 ways to show your patriotism this fourth!

  1. Sport your red, white and blue! Whether it’s a bathing suit, top or fun accessories you’re into…this list has everything you need to show your love for the U.S of A!
  2. Enjoy the fireworks! Every town has a free event where you can bring a blanket and enjoy the show! The Village of Wellington will host a free fireworks spectacular this 4th that’s sure to please! From food trucks to bounces houses and games, the event is from 12p to 7p and fireworks will start at 9:15p!
  3. Plan a bbq! Nothing screams the 4th of July like a good hot dog, some watermelon and corn on the cob! Gather your friends and family and enjoy some yummy food to celebrate America’s B-Day!
  4. Donate or fight for a good cause! No matter your stance or political party, it’s always a good time to show your love and support for the causes you believe in. Some of my favorites include Everytown (helping to prevent gun violence), text “BETTERBEAUTY” to 52886 to help fight for better beauty laws and more health protective legislation in America and sign a petition with change.org to continue the fight for women’s right to an abortion.
  5. Enjoy your freedoms and reflect on the fact that there are military who are protecting our rights as citizens to be living in the land of the free and the home of the brave! America the Beautiful is a great book to teach young children about our great country.

***

*I do receive a small commission for items purchased through 3rd party links. All opinions are that of Briana D’Andrea from momgirlblog and BD Media.

League of Women Voters PBC to Host Free Zoom Discussion on Civil Rights in Florida, July 20

(West Palm Beach, FL – June 16, 2022) The League of Women Voters of Palm Beach County (LWVPBC)today invited local taxpayers, community activists, and concerned citizens to next month’s Hot Topic Discussion on Zoom:

Wednesday, July 20 at Noon

Civil Rights in Florida

James Shaw, Chair of the ACLU of Florida’s State Legal Panel, will discuss the current state of civil rights statewide and changes in the law from this year’s Legislative session.

Link to Register in Advance

https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_PQJV197mSSWqCAMg49SLQA

About the League of Women Voters of Palm Beach County:

The League of Women Voters of Palm Beach County is a nonpartisan political organization of women and men of all ages and backgrounds, encouraging informed and active participation in government through education and advocacy. The League of Women Voters of the United States believes that voting is a fundamental citizen right that must be guaranteed. For more information, please visit www.lwvpbc.org or 

www.facebook.com/lwvpbc.

James Shaw

Step back in time with Yesteryear Village’s summer camp programs

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — Organizers of Yesteryear Village’s summer camp program are inviting children to step back in time to experience old-fashioned fun. Two different programs will take place every Thursday and Friday throughout June and July from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. at Yesteryear Village on the South Florida Fairgrounds, 9067 Southern Blvd.

On Thursdays, the “Explorations” program will take place and includes demonstrations, visits to the Village’s historic buildings, old-fashioned water play and other fun hands-on activities.

On Fridays, “City Kids on the Farm” is scheduled and will involve the agricultural department in addition to the other farm-related activities. Agricultural professionals will be providing presentations and facilitating animal interactions for the campers and guests. 

All campers will have free time after they eat lunch to explore the rest of Yesteryear Village, which is a living history park. Volunteers will lead interactive activities to share with the campers during that time.

Group reservations are full but walk-ins are still being accepted as long as children are accompanied by an adult. Adults are $10, children 5-11 and seniors are $7, and 5 and under are free.

For more information, call Connie Christman at 561-795-3110 or visit the website, www.southfloridafair.com

About Yesteryear Village

Yesteryear Village is a living history park nestled on 10 acres at the South Florida Fairgrounds, 9067 Southern Boulevard, in West Palm Beach. The park showcases buildings and artifacts from Florida’s history. The large collection of early, original and replicated buildings includes three prominent historic buildings — The Red Level Baptist Church, The Bink Glisson Museum and the Riddle House — an old school, a farm, a blacksmith shop, a general store, and several houses. There also is the Sally Bennett Big Band Hall of Fame Museum — the only big band museum in the United States. Group and school guided tours are available by request. Call (561) 795-3110 to schedule a tour or register and pay online at www.southfloridafair.com. Special events, photo shoots, weddings, and corporate events also are available. Call (561) 790-4908 for additional information and to reserve the facility.

New Social Worker Hired to Support Community at The Mandel Public Library of West Palm Beach

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla (June 16, 2022) – Individuals and families in Palm Beach County will have more convenient access to vital social and therapeutic services with the addition of a social worker to lead the Mandel Public Library of West Palm Beach’s Be Well at Mandel program. Through a two-year grant from The Jim Moran Foundation to the West Palm Beach Library Foundation, the Mandel Public Library recently hired Ranier Goldberg, LCSW, for the new position. 

Be Well at Mandel is a unique opportunity for the Mandel Public Library and its primary supporter, the West Palm Beach Library Foundation, to further expand their local community outreach. This critical resource for the families who visit the library will now be able to access all their service needs in one place.   

“The Mandel Public Library has long sought the services of a social worker serving and impacting the lives of those who visit the library. The West Palm Beach Library Foundation was able to work with The Jim Moran Foundation to provide this needed resource”, said Dean W. Dimke, Executive Director of the West Palm Beach Library Foundation.  

Be Well at Mandel offers individuals, youth, and families free support from a licensed clinical social worker. The program provides one-on-one case management, therapeutic support, and advocacy for life’s most difficult challenges. Services include referrals and linkages to programs assisting with food, housing, mental health, childcare, domestic violence, mental health/substance use treatment, healthcare, and more. 

As the Library’s social worker, Goldberg will offer programming and services based on analysis of needs assessments, develop streamlined communication paths to agencies for youth and family service referrals, and engage library patrons to build relationships and learn about their needs. 

Goldberg has over 5 years of experience in homeless services, mobile crisis response and private practice as a licensed medical health professional. She received a Master and a Bachelor of Social Work from Florida Atlantic University and graduated as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in 2015.  

For more information on Be Well at Mandel or to seek assistance, please call 561-868-7750. 

About the West Palm Beach Library Foundation 

The West Palm Beach Library Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization formed in 2000 to support the Mandel Public Library of West Palm Beach. It holds activities and events to financially sustain the library’s free programs, services and resources for children, teens and adults that enrich the diverse community. For more information or to donate to the Foundation, please visit https://www.wpblf.org

About The Jim Moran Foundation 

Founded by automotive pioneer Jim Moran, the mission of The Jim Moran Foundation is to improve the quality of life for the youth and families of Florida through the support of innovative programs and opportunities that meet the ever-changing needs of the community. The Foundation has invested more than $205 million in education, elder care, family strengthening, after school and youth transitional living initiatives since its inception in 2000 with efforts currently focused in Broward, Palm Beach and Duval counties. Through a long-term grant agreement, The Foundation’s significant funders are JM Family Enterprises, Inc., and its subsidiaries, including Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC. It is located at 100 Jim Moran Blvd., Deerfield Beach, Fla. 33442. To learn more, visit www.jimmoranfoundation.org or call (954) 429-2122. 

Rainer Goldberg

March for Our Lives in Parkland

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Photos by Carol Porter

On June 11th, activists of all ages marched for gun control laws and commemorated the lives lost at the Parkland shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas.