Coachella Magazine Nº8

COACHELLA M A G A Z I N E

ZACH J.F. BOYLES

• Cool Connections, 72x96, acrylic on canvas, 2021

“My art is about survival, resilience, daydreams, and wonder. I create a visual journey for people to disengage everyday life and meditate for any period of time. My paintings are filled with elements to lift our spirits, evoke curiosity, and allow us to dwell in visual pleasure.” — MARTIN CERVANTEZ

73111 EL PASEO 101 PALM DESERT CA 92260 (760) 341-3777 www.dgallery.me

73111 EL PASEO 101 PALM DESERT CA 92260 (760) 341-3777 www.dgallery.me

• A New Beginning • Breaking Through •. Sunsets At the Cliffs

MASTHEAD

COACHELLA M A G A Z I N E FOUNDER / P UB LI SHER EDITOR IN C HIEF JORGE PEREZCHICA CONTR I B UTOR S LUNAFORA CREATIVE DIRECTOR JUNAITA MENDOZA WRITER NOAH CRUZ PHOTOGRAPHY CRISTAL CLEAR PHOTOGRAPHY EVAN DOHENY PHOTOGRAPHY VICTOR SIMMONS HAIR SELENE COLÔN MAKEUP SABRINA ROSE STYLIST TIMOTHY JAMES LONG MODEL JOHANNA MCKINLEY MODEL BRAND PARTNERS TOMMY BAHAMA LUNAR JEWELZ V & G COLLECTIVE BENJAMIN PERDEREAU SPECIAL THANKS PALM SPRINGS PUBLIC ARTS PALM SPRINGS GRIP & LIGHTING SOCIAL MEDIA INSTAGRAM / FACEBOOK @coachellamagazine TWITTER @coachellamag

COACHELLA MAGAZINE © 2021 All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part without permission from the publisher.

The views expressed in COACHELLA MAGAZINE are those of the respective contributors and not necessarily shared by COACHELLA MAGAZINE.

ISSUE Nº 8 COACHELLA MAGAZINE ( ISSN 2471-5980 ) IS PUBLISHED QUARTERLY AND PRINTED IN THE USA.

Art | Style | Food | Culture of Coachella Valley, California

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CONTENTS

COACHELLA M A G A Z I N E

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EDITOR’S LETTER

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CHRONICLE

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HOME+DESIGN

10 CHELLAGUY 14 CHELLAGIRL 47 MARKETPLACE 48 CODA

ART 14 ZACH J.F. BOYLES

MUSIC 20 CAKES & SNAKES

FASHION 22 ART MEETS FASHION

TRAVEL+EXPLORE 32 SAL CHAVAZOS

FOOD+DRINK 38 PERFECT PINT 41 THE DESERT PÂTISSERIE

WELLNESS 42 THE ROYAL TREATMENT 3 SPAS TO RELAX, RENEW & REFRESH

ON THE COVER “GREEN PAINTING” BY ZACH J. F. BOYLES

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“PHOEBE” BY ZACH J. F. BOYLES

ED I TOR’S LETTER

refresh Open Coachella Magazine #8 REFRESH issue and stay updated on what’s blooming in Coachella Valley.

Home+Design - Chris Pardo, founder Elemental Architecture was presented with the challenge of designing something so vibrant and unlike any hotel in Palm Springs. Fleur Noir is an exercise in utilitarian sculpture, living and breathing art.

Art - Zach J.F. Boyles discovers new stepping stones of inspiration in a post-COVID world. “I took long walks around the neighborhood and noticed all the cacti were in bloom, so I started adding flowers to my cactus paintings. Felt like the world needed more color in a time of darkness.”

Music - Cakes & Snakes are just a bunch of punks who love to play music and try not to take it too seriously. The band released their official album “Stimuli” in July 2021 after waiting a year and a half due to COVID-19 outbreak.

Fashion - In this collaboration with Palm Springs Public Arts, we mix fresh paint, vibrant colors and desert style together.

Explore - Sal Cavazos’ creative endeavors in photography take him on outdoor adventures capturing starry night skies and natural wonders in the Coachella Valley.

Food+Drink - “Gooooooood morning Ice Cream Fam!” The Perfect Pint was founded by Gabby Nagengast and Jordan Panaiotov. With more than 30 years of combined restaurant experience, the power couple are on a mission to become the most premium ice cream brand in California.

Also, meet the macaroon maestro aka “mad scientist in the kitchen” Bianca Puentes, owner of The Desert Pâtisserie.

Wellness - Self-care is not just a buzzword, it’s a vital aspect to one’s health and well-being. Spa days in a picturesque desert setting, what could be better? In The Royal Treatment, we take a look at 3 spas to relax, renew and refresh.

JORGE PEREZCHICA Founder / Editor in Chief

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CHRONICLE

PEOPLE / PLACE S / PARTIE S

Todd Gray stands in front of his mural “Love Wins” on the outside wall of Coda gallery, Palm Desert, CA.

“This is very much my own visual language at this point, but there’s a consistency throughout time and I liked that. The world needs joy, color, happiness and I’m not trying to make any grand statements, but you know, it’s never been more relevant, right?”

– Todd Gray

JUNE 17, 2021

TAKE BACK opening premier at Mary Pickford Theatre is D’Place.

Cathedral City, CA.

MARCH 1, 2021

Director Christian Sesma and DJ DXSKO hang out at the official TAKE BACK after party.

Agua Caliente Casino Cathedral City, CA.

“I always find it an absolute amazing experience when I get to throw a local premiere at my home town theater with our amazing cast and crew for our community.

Coachella Valley continues to be not only my home and heart but the place in which has always supported this indie Filmmaker in all his endeavors.” — Director, Christian Sesma

MAY 22, 2021

DANNY HASTINGS stands in front of his photographs hung on the walls at Flat Black Art Supply for “Golden Era Exhibition” Westfield, Palm Desert, CA.

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ALF ALPHA / ROLLER SKATE DISCO 4th of July Weekend Celebration Agua Caliente Casino Cathedral City

JULY 3, 2021

TINA TURNTABLES DJ set at Arte de Bario presented by Culturas Music & Arts Coachella, CA.

“Growing up, expression has always been a true navigator to my journey. My formative years have roots in the theater but really birthed my love for public speaking. Doing the school announcements were my first glimpses of being an MC...I definitely always make time for many different forms of expression, but it is DJing that allows me to mix the many forms of art I invest in.”

– Tina Turntables

MAY 1, 2021 JUNE 1, 2021 APRIL 3, 2021 THE ART BENCHES OF PALM SPRINGS Celebrating local artists and commemorative poster launch at Destination PSP. Presented by Palm Springs Public Arts.

“FOREVER MARILYN” a giant statue of Marilyn Monroe by Seward Johnson.

The unveiling was greeted with protest in downtown Palm Springs.

JUNE 20, 2021

JESIKA VON RABBIT Performs live for the first time since the pandemic started.

Hunters Palm Springs, CA.

APRIL 24, 2021

LUNAR ART, FASHION, MUSIC & WINE The Sonoran Palm Springs COACHELLA MAGAZINE 7

H OME+DE S IG N

Fleur Noire Hotel 1560 N Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA Projected opening early fall 2021

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Ellie Cashman, wallpaper artist Louise Jones (née Chen) aka Ouizi, muralist Photos courtesy of Fleur Noire Hotel

AR CHITECTURE / DECOR / FURNITURE / GARDEN

FLEUR NOIRE HOTEL

“When Corey St John (owner/developer/operator of the hotel) reached out to me to discuss his ideas on the property, I was intrigued by the challenge of designing something so vibrant and unlike any hotel in Palm Springs. The hotel is an exercise in utilitarian sculpture, living and breathing art.

We were hired to complement 0uizi’s incredible murals without distracting from them, the interiors are mostly light, bright and playful. The addition of Ellie Cashmans custom floral wallpaper add mood and depth to the spaces. In addition, the landscape features an architectural regiment of cacti & succulents that ground the buildings with a sense of place.” — Chris Pardo, founder Elemental Architecture.

WEB: WWW.FLEURNOIREHOTEL.COM

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C HE LLAG UY

TIMOTHY JAMES LONG

B-BOY RICEBOWL interview JORGE PEREZCHICA photography LUNAFORA

Come to VillageFest, the downtown Palm Springs weekly street fair on Thursday nights and you can hear loud hip-hop music thumping from a multi-colored boom box. A crowd gathers around a crew of breakdancers as they watch in awe, pointing their smartphones to snap photos for social media or walk up to leave tips. The b-boy crew first met at Palm Springs High School and have always stuck around with each other to keep the hip-hop tradition going. They started performing in front of audiences at dance shows and pep rallies to overwhelming praise. In time, the crowd size grew and they gained more confidence. As a spectator, I stand mesmerized by the kinetic energy — watching the crew take turns breaking on a white mat placed in the middle of the street as they showcase their individual talent. One dancer, I had the opportunity to meet is Timothy James Long, a 27 year-old half Filipino and half American born in St. Louis, Missouri. At age two, his family moved to Palm Springs, California — and ever since, Timothy is living the b-boy lifestyle.

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Pictured above left to right: Ejay Lusung, Josiah Ihem, Clifford Calinisan, Arnulfo Sanchez and Timothy James Long

How did you get the name B-Boy RiceBowl?

B-Boy stands for “Breaker or Bronx” Boy and the name “RiceBowl” is the name I gave myself when I first started dancing. Why RiceBowl? Well, part of it is because a “RiceBowl” could be just about anything that you put in it, or any “Flavor” you really want, and the other is.... Idk, but I kept that name ever since, lol! That’s the analogy of it. I am self-taught from Youtube, you can find great tutorials online! Nowadays, the tutorials are so detailed, you can learn just about anything.

When did you start breakdancing?

I was first introduced to it on television when “America’s Best Dance Crew, season 1” came out. Early 2009 when I first started to actually practice the movement. In Palm Springs High School, I saw other breakers as well and that really got me inspired since it was actually in front of me rather than on T.V. I thought I couldn’t do it at first, it was tough to understand everything. Almost quit to be honest, but when I got my first “Windmill” that changed everything as I once thought “impossible” became anything possible. So, I practiced other moves after that!

It was very inspiring to have cool moves “with” the music.

It wasn’t just big tricks, but overall a “DANCE” and that’s what really separates “Breaking” from everything else which I loved!

What do you enjoy most about breaking?

“Music with Intelligent movement.” Music is a beautiful thing we have in this world, and being able to connect with it creates a feeling that is hard to come by with anything else. There’s an endless amount of ways you can dance to one song and being able to adapt to different music on the spot makes it even more enjoyable! It’s a freestyle dance, so you have to move while listening at the same time. You can’t think and dance at the same time. Thinking while dancing will only leave you a step behind, so you really have to trust yourself entirely. What you practice is what will natively come out. Then taking that and connecting it with others, there’s no other physical language like breaking!

Where do you see yourself in the next 5-10 years?

I still see myself dancing in the future. I would like to continue and get stronger, better, as time progresses and hone my craft. I might not be as agile in 10 years, but like everything else, it comes and goes. I believe you further adapt to things as time moves forward. Continue what I love to do and hopefully teach one day! I believe it helped and shaped me as a person, I would love to teach breaking to the next person that might find it useful! social media: @BBOYRICEBOWL

Walk us through the creative dance process.

Complexity is the key, or another way of saying it is “Intelligent Movement.” Breaking generally starts around in a circle with a back and forth motion. The way you approach the circle, the creativity is endless. For example, a beginner step called the “six step” is a footwork step that takes 6 “steps” to go around in a full circle. From where you start is the same place to where you’ll finish.

Question is, what are other ways you can do “six steps” that could take you around the same circle motion. Well, that’s where the creative part starts. If you put yourself with 100 different dancers, how could you stand out from the other 99 and not look the same? Same concept of “six steps” but 100 different approaches is what makes it very interesting. Everyone has their own way of looking at it which slowly starts to create a B-Boy’s “Style” your own way of movement.

If I want to live a “B-Boy” lifestyle, how do I get started?

Like any lifestyle, you eat, live, breathe around what you do. It’s a physical, mental, and spiritual development that all works together simultaneously. Same as a gym, boxing or CrossFit lifestyle, you do it because you love it.

B-Boying is like a Martial art, the way you sweep, kick, step, turn has similar properties as any fighting style would have. You see the progression in your journey, which becomes the addicting part. What else can I do better than yesterday?

B-Boy RiceBowl and crew strike a pose.

Palm Springs VillageFest COACHELLA MAGAZINE

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C HE LLAG I R L

DAZY SMITH

CV MEETUPS

interview JORGE PEREZCHICA photography NOAH CRUZ

Meet Dazy Smith, founder of CV Meetups and Dazy’s Designs. If you have attended any of Dazy’s coordinated events throughout the Coachella Valley, they are like the “Avengers” assemble of local pop-ups showcasing their best flex. From fresh baked desserts to homemade ice cream, from BBQ grilling to specialty drinks, from fashion and accessories to arts and crafts — the list goes on. For attendees, it is a great chance to meet and greet, and see what local small business owners have been dreaming up lately. For entrepreneurs, the occasion offers a space to network and engage likeminded individuals in the community and grow your brand beyond social media.

Hi Dazy, tell us more about yourself.

Hi! Thank you for giving me the opportunity to share with readers a little bit about myself and what I do. As you know, I’m Dazy Smith, I am the founder of Coachella Valley Meetups, Dazy’s Designs, and participate in local entrepreneurial groups.

My mission is to help local businesses and entrepreneurs by providing markets for networking and business growth. I provide many tools that are necessary to get started such as product photo shoots, social media exposure, marketing and business support groups. We can all flourish together! In my off time, I have the privilege of raising two beautiful children and making memories with my family.

Was modeling always something you wanted to do?

Modeling was always a hobby of mine. My true passion is coordinating events and creating art. I love building backdrops, designing events, and decorating. You can find some of my designs and sets at @dazys_designs on Instagram.

Who are favorite local creatives you discovered through your journey on social media?

There are many hidden gems I have discovered through Instagram. Angela (@anggaitan) is a genuine local blogger that covers relatable issues. She radiates confidence and is a professional boss babe. I enjoy working with her and seeing where her journey goes. Another amazing creative to keep an eye out for is Andrew Cabral (@andrewcabral_photography). He has a spectacular way of capturing his subjects and is very easy to work with. Everyone loves his positive energy and feedback.

There are many creatives I have met and cherish every one.

What are the most important lessons you learned over the years from artist to modeling and business owner?

One of the most important lessons I have learned over the years is to surround yourself with positive, like minded individuals.

I appreciate being around people who lift each other up and celebrate each other’s successes. I enjoy seeing businesses start off at CVMeetups and grow their business. If I can connect two

businesses together to collaborate and see them flourish, then I know I did my job! I love hearing all the successes of vendors and models and appreciate the acknowledgment of how it started at the Coachella Valley Meetups events.

In the last two years, the pandemic has disrupted businesses, set new challenges and opened new opportunities. How has life changed for you?

During this pandemic, one challenge for me was adjusting to the new way people were working remotely and the limited access to in-person interactions. I realized that I am not a 9-5 kind of person and I took the leap of faith by committing to Coachella Valley Meetups full time. As a social butterfly, it was difficult being confined in a house without in-person interactions.

Modeling came to a halt and I relied on a part-time job. This pandemic opened my eyes, that nothing is permanent. I felt the strong desire to go after my goals and dreams and not wait for things to happen. There will always be risk in anything you do in life - I’m glad I took the risk! I am happier working for myself doing what I love and feel so lucky to have the opportunity to continue chasing my dreams. .

From your experience, what advice can you share with us?

We are living in unprecedented times where it’s easy to be worried about the uncertainty of what the future will hold in all aspects of your life. Try to focus on what brings you joy, always work on your goals/dreams, and appreciate everything!

Where do you see yourself going in the next 5-10 years?

In the next 5-10 years I would like to expand CVMeetups by finding a home base where creatives will have a permanent place to host pop-ups, photo shoots, and events. I will be expanding my business by taking on larger themed events in the future so keep an eye out for that coming soon!

Anything else you would like to add?

Come out and enjoy one of our many CVMeetups events posted at @cvmeetups. See ya there!

social media: @CVMEETUPS COACHELLA MAGAZINE

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“GREEN PAINTING” by Zach J.F. Boyles

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ZACK J.F. BOYLES

CACTUS IN BLOOM interview JORGE PEREZCHICA

Zachary James Fleming-Boyles aka Zach J.F. Boyles was born and raised in the Coachella Valley and is a self-described “desert rat.” But “the cactus” may be a better analogy for the artist — since it’s known to adapt to harsh environment and thrive in the desert. Growing up in a town that caters to the tourist industry, Zach created his own fun with a natural proclivity towards music and art to express his burgeoning creativity. In college, Art History opened his eyes to realizing a career in the visual arts. After earning a B.A. in Art Practice from the University of California, Berkeley, Zach was living a comfortable life as a full-time educator until COVID-19 surged in 2020 and was laid-off work.

Like many impacted by the pandemic, it upend our world and forced us to start fresh again. Not knowing where the next stepping stone would be, Zach searched for new inspiration: “I took a lot of walks around my neighborhood to deal with anxiety and noticed all the cacti were in bloom, so I started adding flowers to my cactus paintings.

Felt like the world needed more color in a time of darkness,” said Zach.

In Zach’s art, the cactus aptly serves as an overriding motif projected across landscapes brimming with bright neon orange and psychedelic colors. Look deeper and each canvas tells its own unique story existing beyond the traditional still life. His latest, “The Green Painting” indicates a stepping stone into new directions. Just as cacti flourish in the desert, Zach is showing no signs of slowing down. From new artworks to teaching again — this is one of the most productive periods in Zach’s career.

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“LARGE CACTUS WITH CHAIR”

by Zach J.F. Boyles

Tell us about yourself — from growing up to your journey into the art world.

I’m a “desert rat” born and raised in the Coachella Valley. There wasn’t much for kids to do growing up in a community that predominantly caters to tourists and retirees with expendable income, so we had to make our own fun. Art and music were the means to do so. Drawing and painting were just inexpensive ways to pass the time when it was too hot to go outside. So in that sense, I’ve always been an artist, it just took me a while to recognize it. For a long time, music was the primary mode through which I expressed my creativity, but college opened my eyes to Art History and I found myself wanting to be part of it. Sure, it might be an uphill battle, but pursuing my interests in visual art felt like the path of least resistance.

You earned a B.A. in Art Practice from the University of California, Berkeley. How do you divide your time between artist and art educator?

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I try not to think of them as being separate from each other. Teaching is part of my artistic practice. Teaching makes me a better artist, and creating art makes me a better teacher. Of course, finding the right balance between the two is a constant challenge, and it often feels like I am being pulled in two different directions, but I figure it’s a good problem to have, like a puzzle I have yet to figure out.

How has COVID-19 impacted you as an artist?

Prior to the pandemic, I had a full-time job as an Art Educator that ate up most of my time and energy. Painting was just something I did to relax after work, because I thought it was important to practice what I preached in the classroom, so as not to feel like a hypocrite while teaching.

I was living a pretty comfortable life until I was labeled a “non-essential worker” and laid-off, which kind of sucked.

“BOWIE”

by Zach J.F. Boyles

But to be completely honest, I was also kind of relieved. At risk of sounding crass, COVID has been kind of great for my artistic career. I received grants from organizations like the California Desert Arts Council and Desert X. I was given studio space at my buddy Cris Cichocki’s gallery while it was being renovated. I was teaching online classes at CREATE. I was selling paintings, prints, and commissions on top of getting paid to make public art.

In retrospect, life was pretty good, but I found it hard to celebrate with everything happening in the world.

Let’s talk about “the cactus” as a recurring motif in your artwork. How did it start and what inspires you?

For close to a decade, I’ve tried to paint everyday. The problem with that is, I ran out of ideas real quick and kind of fell into this rut making a bunch of crappy abstract paintings. Unsatisfied with my work and abstract art in general, I decided to challenge myself with a more traditional still life painting inspired by the work of Wayne

Thiebaud. I was also taking up an interest in gardening at the time, but as it turns out, I’m a terrible gardener.

When I went looking for something to paint, the only plants left alive were cactuses. So I grabbed the smallest one I had, set it up next to my easel and started painting.

I was also working for an art museum at the time and had to constantly remind people not to touch the art, and I wonder if that somehow subconsciously influenced my choice of subject matter.

With the cactus, I have no shortage of subjects to choose from. I don’t have to worry about what I am going to paint next because I can find inspiration anywhere, if I just take the time to look for it.

We have corresponded a few times this past year. Once, you sent me this message regarding the “Green Painting” — ‘That was a painting I made at the beginning of the pandemic. I took a lot of walks around my neighborhood COACHELLA MAGAZINE

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to deal with anxiety and noticed all the cacti were in bloom, so I started adding flowers to my cactus paintings. Felt like the world needed more color in a time of darkness.’ Did the “Green Painting” signify a shift or turning point in your art, and what anxiety were you experiencing?

The “Green Painting” was a scene I had wanted to paint for a long time, but always found excuses not to. It was originally supposed to be monochromatic, consisting only of varying shades of green, hence the uninspired name. I had no intention of including flowers in the painting. In fact, until the pandemic, I avoided including flowers in my paintings altogether because it felt too obvious. It’s cliche. Flowers are pretty, and I’m not really interested in painting pretty pictures. At least, that was the excuse I told myself. Besides, it’s time consuming enough just painting the spines of a cactus. Why make more work for myself by adding flowers? There was a point where I was ready to declare the painting “done,” but the composition was telling me something was missing. It needed a splash of color and flowers were the answer.

I wouldn’t necessarily call it a “major shift,” rather it’s more of a stepping stone towards bigger, more ambitious paintings.

With regards to the anxiety, I think it came from not knowing where the next stepping stone will be. It felt like having a swarm of cicadas buzzing around in my head. I found it hard to focus. Days blurred together and I lost all sense of time. The only way I was able to silence the noise and ground myself in the moment was by taking walks around my neighborhood. It was spring, the weather was great, everything was in bloom. The external world seemed so serene and peaceful compared to the inner turmoil I was experiencing, and I wanted that tension between order and chaos to be expressed in my art.

“DUNCAN” by Zach J.F. Boyles

Zach J.F. in the printmaking studio at CREATE Center for the Arts

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Are you feeling less anxiety and more hope compared to a year ago?

No, but I don’t necessarily consider that to be a bad thing. I’ve grown weary of hope, since I believe it can lead to passivity while you wait for someone or something to come along and rescue you. Likewise, if one can overcome the paralysis that accompanies anxiety, it can be a great motivating force for change. This has been one of the most productive periods of my artistic career, and I think the discomfort I felt was the catalyst I needed to make it happen.

What do you enjoy most about painting the cactus as a over-arching theme in your artwork?

The way I see it, the cactus is a living sculpture formed by time, water and light and it’s a subject that allows me to formally investigate the concepts of balance, repetition, and rhythm to build complex structures out of simple shapes and patterns. For example, consider the spines of a cactus. In my paintings, a single spine is nothing more than a brushstroke, but when viewed as a whole they work together to add a lot of depth and dimensionality to the composition.

By contrast, what do you enjoy most about teaching?

Teaching keeps me on my toes and really challenges me to know my material. It’s one thing to know how something works, but effectively communicating your knowledge to someone else requires an entirely different set of skills.

There’s also an element of improvisation that I find enjoyable. Every class is different. Every student brings with them experiences and knowledge that inform their unique worldview, and when dealing with the creativity and imagination of others, you never know where the conversation will go.

Walk us through some of the projects you worked on this past year from Palm Springs Public Arts to your new gig at CREATE Center for the Arts — and anything else you’d like to mention.

The Palm Springs Public Arts Commission put out a call to artists for their Mainstreet Bench Project in the Spring of 2020. I submitted a design because I thought it would be funny to see people to sit on a cactus. I didn’t think anything would come of it and was a little overwhelmed when my design was selected because I severely underestimated the size and surface area of those benches. Likewise, I wasn’t too excited about getting started in July with the heat, but ultimately found I didn’t mind it so much because I was happy to be out of the house after quarantining at home for three months. I ended up painting three benches and a traffic signal box on Indian Canyon and San Rafael thanks to the help and encouragement from Tysen Knight, Russell Pritchard, Joy Meredith and Shawnda Thomas Faveau.

Do you see a silver lining in the age of COVID-19?

Not to get all “Kumbaya,” but I genuinely believe artistic expression is the means through which we can bridge ideological gaps and heal from this collective trauma we all have been experiencing. Good art inspires awe and reminds us of our humanity, something which I think we’ve lost sight of in our frantic, fast paced contemporary society that seems hellbent on drowning us with feelings of FOMO, despair and apathy blasting out of the “firehose of information” we voluntarily aim at our faces. The pandemic and social unrest of 2020 exposed the cracks in the foundation of our democracy and laid bare the economic stratification that is tearing us apart as a country. We can debate endlessly about who or what is to blame for these problems, but regardless of where you fall on the political spectrum, I think we can all agree that something is fundamentally broken. Fortunately, more and more people seem to be waking up to the fact that we can no longer ignore the inequity that plagues our society and are willing to have the uncomfortable conversations necessary to fix it. web: ZACHJFBOYLES.COM

While all that was happening, Deb Mumm (founder) from CREATE Center for the Arts reached out to me about helping put together a virtual gallery for their annual student show, the Gui Ignon Memorial Exhibition, as well as design and facilitate their distance learning program, the Art of Science, which consisted of eight interactive 3-hour virtual classes that investigated various scientific concepts through hands-on art projects. Now, I’m in charge of managing CREATE’s printmaking studio, hence the sudden interest in making prints.

I currently have some art hanging at Las Palmas Brewery as part of a group show curated by Kylie Knight and I’ve been invited to create an altar installation at the Coachella Valley History Museum for their upcoming Dia de Muertos annual event.

How are classes going at CREATE Center for the Arts?

Things are great, but they are only just getting started. We are planning for a very busy season this coming Fall. In addition to the printmaking classes, I will also be teaching a series of animation classes for students ages 8-12 funded by the Anderson Children’s Foundation that will run through the spring of 2022. For anyone reading this who hasn’t yet seen CREATE’s new 20,000 sq ft home, you definitely need to check it out because words don’t do it justice. It’s something you really have to see in person.

“PHOEBE” by Zach J.F. Boyles

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MUSIC

CAKES & SNAKES

photo by EVAN DOHENY

interview JORGE PEREZCHICA

Listening to “Stimuli” the official album release by Coachella Valley based band Cakes & Snakes, my mind is transported across a desert soundscape under a starry sky. The album captures a nightlife mood set to a blues/ rock/punk playlist. From the slow and broody opening track “Psycho” and builds up to an exhilarating closing with “Run Run” an upbeat jam that showcases the bands eclectic talent converging together seamlessly. Cake’s emotional lead vocals and freestyle songwriting sets the tempo throughout Stimuli — expressing heartache and passion as she contemplates leaving a 19-year relationship — catharsis becomes music to the ear. While the songs vary rhythmically from rock to punk, there’s a je ne sais quoi chemistry that glues the album together. Written and recorded a week before the pandemic, Stimuli serves a mix of breakups, love ending and female masturbation.

On “Stimuli” was the there a specific direction Cakes & Snakes wanted to explore?

CAKES: The band is an organic mixture of everything and nothingness. We literally plug in our instruments and play and whatever comes out is our songs. We don’t spend too much time tailoring them because the band just has a vibe together. That’s why all the songs on the album are a little different. We don’t have a definitive style because 20

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we are all so different with our musical backgrounds and tastes. I think that’s why this band is rad, because I never know what’s going to develop next. We are just a bunch of punks who love to play music and try not to take it too seriously, so there really is no direction.

Let’s talk about the band: Introduce our readers to Cakes & Snakes and how Stimuli came together.

I had asked the original members of Cakes and the Assholes, Josh (drummer) Aaron (bassist) and Rene (Percussionist) to play an awards show with me. I got asked to perform live and I didn’t want to play to a track, so I put together a band for this particular event. I knew all these guys from other musical ventures. After the awards show, I kind of asked them to go steady. They said “yes.” Josh Fimbres is the drummer. He is a very talented musician who plays drums, guitar and I really knew him for his hip hop group Thr3 Strykes as a hip-hop artist.

Aaron Ransom is a gifted bass player and a mean scorpio like me, so we got along. Rene Almodovar is a seasoned musician that I’ve known from my previous band mates and he played with a lot of reggae musicians I knew. Our newest members Nick Hales and Shannon Graham have been added and between Nick’s desert rock guitar licks and Shannon’s groovy synth we became Cake & Snakes.

The final track “Run Run” has a 7:13 runtime. Sonically, it feels more upbeat compared to the rest of the tracks on Stimuli. As if the entire band is jamming late at night and having a good time. Tell us more about “Run Run.” This song was totally a jam that we turned into a song like most of our songs. It is probably my favorite song on the album. The guys all have different favorites. I was trying to leave a relationship of 19 years and I wrote it abstractly, so they wouldn’t understand what I was saying. It’s an emotional song for sure, but the tempo and percussion keep the beat lively. I have a thing for percussion in our songs. Rene really gives me the feels when he bangs on those drums, they made the song what it is along with the guitar melody Nick adds. Shannons’ synth ties it all together giving it a vibe. I wish I would have spent more time developing the chorus because there really isn’t one, but like I said, I write all my songs on the fly, so maybe that’s a lesson for me to get my shit together. LOL.

The album art on “Stimuli” was created by local artist Carlos Ramirez. How long have you known each other and what is your relationship like?

I’ve been a hardcore fan of Carlos Ramirez ever since I saw his work on the cover of Juxtapoz Magazine when he was a Date Farmer. I always made it a point to follow his work and we became Facebook friends a few years back. He recently hit me up for a project he was working on for his PBS American History Portrait Documentary through our artist friend, Marnie Navarro and asked if I could write a song for his piece. I was beyond honored.

I wrote the song “Cambiala” for his documentary and it was accepted and aired. One of my prouder moments.

He in turn made our cover art and it came out better than I could have imagined. I wanted him to have his creative freedom and in the end we made some adjustments that were more fitting for the band. What he created took that cover to the next-level.

What’s next for Cakes & Snakes and Cakes the Maniac?

Cakes & Snakes is still motivated to make music for the love of music. I’m sure I could do a better job of promoting us and making better business decisions for the band, but we just love to play music. We will be recording a single soon called “Wrong Girl” which has been the band’s favorite new song we have been working on. We won’t wait 2 years to put it out. We already have half of another album done.

As for Cakes the Maniac, I hope to put out my second solo album next year and become a successful Latina Cannabis Mogul. Si se puede!

CARLOS RAMIREZ

Can you walk us through the writing process of “Stimuli.”

What are they about and do you have a favorite track?

I literally wrote the album a week before we recorded it.

I’m not necessarily a freestyler, but I can just come up with cadences on the spot and they are good. I freestyle most shows because I never remember the lyrics anyways. Well, not all of them anyways. I have an idea for the lyrics of the song, but I typically wait for a show to lock down lyrics. I save my writing when I’m down in the dumps or I have a day to record it. This album was eclectic in its writing. Songs like “Pussy Poppin Blues” and “She’s Crazy” are our blues-rock in roll odes with my bad girl mouth writing. I love that I say CUNT and talk about a female masturbating, like it’s totally normal.

Too Late and Run Run are probably my favorite songs.

Clearly, they are break up songs. Friendships and Love relationships ending. “You rise…You fall…You light the walls…Watch as they burn…” Run Run was the song that I wrote abstractly, where I tried to be slick with my writing. It’s probably the writing I’m most proud of.

Aaron Ramson, the former bass player moved away.

How will his position be filled during live shows?

We decided to have our keyboardist Shannon Graham play bass. He plays bass with his left hand, and synth with his right. We played a sold-out show at The Hood with Slipping Into Darkness and he killed it. We will probably keep it this way for a while. Aaron is hard to replace. The connection that he and Josh had along with the music that he wrote is hard to replace.

album art

“Stimuli” was recorded a week before everything shut down from the pandemic and released almost a year and a half later. What was the experience like for you?

We actually recorded all the music tracks a week before everything got shut down. I went afterward a few times to lay down vocal tracks and then to go over the mixing.

There was no magic moment. There was just a pause.

It was hard to get excited over this album when there wasn’t really an opportunity for promotion. I am not a fan of recording. I become so timid and try to control my voice too much that, I feel, I lose all my sauce. Also, being involved in the mixing process, I lost the sparkling luster of our songs from hearing them so much. I was actually glad when it was done and over with, so I could move on to new music.

social media: @CAKESANDSNAKESBAND COACHELLA MAGAZINE

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FAS HI O N

Clothes from BENJAMIN PERDEREAU Jewelry from LUNAR JEWELZ

Amanda Gorman mural by MISTER ALEK Commissioned by PS Public Arts in collaboration with Flat Black Art Supply

ART MEETS FASHION

PALM SPRINGS PUBLIC ARTS LUNAFORA SABRINA ROSE hair by VICTOR SIMMONS makeup by SELENE COLON photos by

styled by

models

TIMOTHY JAMES LONG JOHANNA MCKINLEY

His clothes and sunglasses from TOMMY BAHAMA Mural by “SPECZACULAR” ZACHARY BENSON FRIEDBERG Commissioned by PS Public Arts

Her clothes, sunglasses, sandals and jewelry from TOMMY BAHAMA Mural by NEAL BREATON Commissioned by PS Public Arts

His/Her clothes, shoes, and jewelry from BENJAMIN PERDEREAU Mural by TRAVIS STUDIO Commissioned by PS Public Arts

His/Her clothes, sandals, jewelry and hat from TOMMY BAHAMA Artwork by JESSICA MACIAS Commissioned by PS Public Arts

Clothes, sunglasses and jewelry from BENJAMIN PERDEREAU Mural by TRAVIS STUDIO Commissioned by PS Public Arts

Shirt from V & G COLLECTIVE Pants and shoes from BENJAMIN PERDEREAU Jewelry from LUNAR JEWELZ Mural by “RMC1” RYAN CAMPBELL Commissioned by PS Public Arts

Jacket, leather belt and handbag from V & G COLLECTIVE Jewelry from LUNAR JEWELZ Dress from BENJAMIN PERDEREAU Mural by MISTER ALEK Commissioned by PS Public Arts and Flat Black Art Supply

Dress and shoes from BENJAMIN PERDEREAU Jewelry from LUNAR JEWELZ Mural by “RMC1” RYAN CAMPBELL Commissioned by PS Public Arts

TRAVEL+E XPLO R E

SAL CAVAZOS PAINTING WITH LIGHT interview JORGE PEREZCHICA

When it comes to exploring Coachella Valley’s natural beauty, there is treasure everywhere. From low desert to high desert — you don’t need to look far. Sal Cavasos first started capturing night views onto his phone camera straight from the backyard in Desert Hot Springs, California. With support from his wife, Sal upgraded to a tripod and DSLR and took the creative endeavor even further. Like an artist’s brushstroke on canvas, Sal paints with light and digital pixels. Each photograph tells a story that mixes portraits, landscape and the starry night sky as a backdrop. The results produce indelible images that capture natural wonders and resonate with feeling beyond the viewer’s gaze.

Read on and follow Sal for the next adventure.

Hi Sal, where did you grow up?

I’m a desert-rat, low desert, born in good-old Indio and grew up in Desert Hot Springs.

How did you get started in photography?

I started with an old smartphone. My wife has always supported me in all my artistic endeavors. She knew I wanted to do more than what I was producing. She gifted me an entry level DSLR camera and tripod. The tripod was important, it was essential for long exposure photography. I immediately loved the ability to trap moving light and how that felt.

When it comes to art and creativity, I like to think I’m “a jack of all trades and a master of none, but oftentimes better than a master of one.” Mostly selftaught, through trial and error, and also learned from a few night photographer enthusiasts.

What are your favorite spots in the Coachella Valley?

I started from my backyard, we have some of the best views of the valley and our mountain from Desert Hot Springs. The nearby city light was proving challenging - I soon found that darker was better. The farther away the landscape was from city light, the bolder and brighter stars appeared after every exposure.

What is most challenging about night photography and what tips can you share with enthusiast?

Challenges come with expectations. I pride myself in being able to create with the tools I have. It didn’t matter that I didn’t have a high-end super expensive camera and brand name gear. Pro-photographers would ask me what camera/gear I use and get surprised when they found out. I push the tech to its limits. Weather was a challenge - soon I felt I could define my efforts as insane, trying the same thing over and over expecting different results. Learning what low level light does in different environments, bouncing against a boulder, waiving it across a Joshua Tree as if painting with brush strokes of light. At times quickly running across a desert landscape painting the ground with light while trying not to trip over what you can’t see. Painting people with light is a completely different challenge.

It’s tough for people to stay still while I take my picture, which can last 4-15 seconds. Figuring out if I should light paint (while someone tries to stay still) or use an off-camera flash to help freeze my subject in place.

Your work gives maternity and portraiture a different spin, resonating both with nature and romance. When is the best time of day for shooting these types of portraits under the stars?

I feel because, I started out shooting landscapes and the night sky, it was easy to put a person in front of it.

I love our natural surroundings. The desert is beautiful in the way light touches it, every sunrise, sunset, and golden-hour has a special interaction with us on an intellectual and emotional level. The night-sky does something similar.

As for the best time to shoot portraits at night, as soon as the stars are out. Clear skies are essential. There’s also a season for Milky Way visibility. In our hemisphere, it starts from late January / early February — rising during the early morning hours and runs through late September — rising earlier in the night.

“...MIGHT DELETE LATER” photo courtesy of Sal Cavazos COACHELLA MAGAZINE

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TOP: “ANCIENT ONE” BOTTOM: “DESERT SONATA” COACHELLA MAGAZINE

“TAKE ME TO THE UPSIDE DOWN”

THE DESERT IS BEAUTIFUL IN THE WAY LIGHT TOUCHES IT, EVERY SUNRISE, SUNSET, AND GOLDEN-HOUR HAS A SPECIAL INTERACTION WITH US ON AN INTELLECTUAL AND EMOTIONAL LEVEL. THE NIGHT-SKY DOES SOMETHING SIMILAR. — SAL CAVAZOS COACHELLA MAGAZINE

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PAINTING WITH LIGHT continued

How do couples feel about your creative process?

People have felt different, depending on how far from “civilization” they feel at the moment. Having friends and family around definitely makes it easier.

What kind of feedback do you get on social media about your work?

Feedback on social media varies from “wow this is amazing, give us more” to “this is cool, how can I do this?” Every now and then, after having a short conversation, I come to find out that some believe the pictures are fake. For the most part, people are intrigued and want to know more about the process.

And of course I’m happy to share.

Joshua Tree is a recurring place in your photography.

What do you love most about the landscape?

I love the landscape in Joshua Tree National Park, it’s other-worldly. While there, I’m immediately transported to another world. That and the night skies are darker, farther away from city light.

How has the pandemic changed the way you work?

Working with people is definitely challenging while wearing a mask, the underrated smile does wonders while trying to make people feel comfortable. I feel for anyone in customer service. Body language quickly became something more than how I feel, but rather how I make others feel.

TAKE A PICTURE OF WHAT YOU SEE AND GIVE IT A FEELING, GIVE IT A STORY, GO FURTHER AND MAKE IT RELATABLE - HOWEVER SUBJECTIVE IT MAY BE. — SAL CAVAZOS

This Page: “MOVING ALONG” Opposite Page: “THE LASTING LIGHT OF STARS” “THE [NATIVE] JOURNEY” “SEARCHING...”

“SHARPTOOTH” photo courtesy of Sal Cavazos

Tell us about your work in video production.

Most of my videos are time-lapse. I love how clouds dance across the sky or roll over mountains. I especially enjoy watching the night sky play over a desert landscape or moonlit shadows slither across the ground. For time-lapse, I use my DSLR camera and a tripod. I do on occasions use a drone to provide a different perspective.

What are you working on next?

Figuring out the next project is now a matter of time.

Lately, finding the time to create for myself has not been as easy as creating for others.

Final thoughts...

Everything we see is filtered by our culture, by our point of view and how that point of view has been affected by everyone else’s, by our intellect, our emotion, and our experiences, positive and negative. Take a picture of what you see and give it a feeling, give it a story, go further and make it relatable - however subjective it may be. social media: @SALCAVAZOS_

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FOOD+DRI NK

THE PERFECT PINT Follow Perfect Pint on social media and you will be instantly welcomed by the now familiar hyper-greeting: “Gooooooood morning Ice Cream Fam!” With more than 30 years of combined restaurant experience, Perfect Pint power couple, Gabby Nagengast and Jordan Panaiotov understand three important things: quality, service and experience. Founded less than a year ago as COVID-19 took a toll on the restaurant and hospitality industries, the duo are on a mission to become the most premium ice cream brand in California. Coachella Magazine reached out to CEO and co-founder Jordan Panaiotov for a closer look at how it all started — from Bulgaria to California to ice cream magnate.

Backstory - Jordan, you’re originally from Bulgaria.

What was the transition like moving to a new country, facing challenges and seeking new opportunities?

I was born in communist Bulgaria, December of 1983.

When the Berlin wall fell, my family and I left our lives in Bulgaria and sought political asylum in Germany. Five years later, my family was granted green card immigrant status and emigrated to the US. The most difficult part of the process was learning English at age 12, in 1995 - but there was the opportunity! In grade 8, I decided to read The Fountainhead - an incredible work by Ayn Rand, and my free-spirited entrepreneur side was born.

Who is The Perfect Pint?

The Perfect Pint is comprised of the perfect Ice Cream Power Couple - Gabrielle and Jordan. Gabby is our frozen

interview by

JORGE PEREZCHICA CRISTAL CLEAR

photography by

custard queen, a culinary school grad of the Art Institute.

Jordan, a Sommelier trained at The Sommelier Society of America in Manhattan has been a lifelong employee of the restaurant industry, working as a consultant, sales rep and Fine Dining Server. Due to the brutal and crushing effect of COVID-19, the Power Couple lost their jobs working at the absolutely gorgeous Pink Cabana Restaurant in Indian Wells and had to figure out some way to keep paying the rent. Thus, Perfect Pint was born January 2021.

What goes into creating the “Perfect Pint” flavors?

The Process of creating flavors is one of the most fun things about owning an Ice Cream company! Many of the flavors are inspired by past experiences - Black Forest Cake is from my childhood living in the Southern Part of Germany. Tropical Cobbler (Apricot Ice Cream base) was created drawing on the prevalence of Apricots in Bulgaria and the nostalgia of childhood Ice Cream experiences.

Banana Cream pie with nilla wafers draws on Gabby’s family roots, in Atlanta GA - Nanner Puddin’ with Nilla wafers is a staple in the south and Gabby was often served this at Family reunions. Perfect Pint try to create familiar flavors with a twist - something familiar, yet brand new. The newest flavor, Pistachio with Raspberry Swirls and White Chocolate Chunks is an absolute smash hit and was created through lots of brainstorming and at least 10 R&D batches... There is no formula for creating the Perfect Flavor. But there’s definitely a personal touch to every flavor.

CONT. ➜ COACHELLA MAGAZINE

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THE PERFECT PINT continued

I read on your social media page of plans to open a store front shop soon. What details can you share?

Our store has been heavily delayed by COVID-19 licencing problems, construction troubles and equipment manufacturing issues, but should be open to the public by early to mid-October. Our new location will be 42575 Melanie Place, Suite F, Palm Desert, CA and we will announce a grand opening celebration as soon as we know exactly. (Big Party Incoming!!!)

What is the secret to your success?

It is a fun and rewarding business, but it is certainly not easy. This is a very competitive, saturated space. The secrets to our success are simple - we only have three: Work, work, work. Hyper focus and accountability are key factors, but there are no shortcuts in life. While this has been excruciatingly difficult to get off the ground for so many reasons, it has been the most rewarding thing we’ve ever done and we wake up daily inspired to work even harder.

You stay active on social media posting a daily greeting: “Gooooooood morning Ice Cream Fam!” What keeps you inspired and motivated?

My personal motivation comes from my parents - they’ve

given up so much and worked so hard to provide my sister and I with the opportunity to have a better life than we could ever have in Bulgaria. Currently, Bulgaria is the poorest country in the European Union and has a declining population. The minimum wage of about $500 per month is laughable when you consider the most necessary products - such as gasoline - can cost up to 20% more than they do in Southern California. This amazing place of opportunity is a true Utopia when compared to where I was born, I want to live out the American Dream.

What else are you working on?

We are absolutely astounded by how well our small frozen custard brand has been received by the community, and we will work even harder to create now flavors and ways of people to get them. We will be expanding into Dairy Free lines, Half Pints and even Gallon containers. Our goal is to serve the high-end food industry - and truly become the most Premium Ice Cream brand in California.

What five words describe you best?

1. Unrelenting 2. Focused 3. Optimistic 4. Obsessive 5. Grateful.

social media: @PERFECTPINT760

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FO O D+ DR IN K

THE DESERT PÂTISSERIE “The secret ingredient is always love” says Bianca Puentes, entrepreneur and owner of The Desert Pâtisserie.

interview+photos JORGE PEREZCHICA

What five words describe you best?

1. Motivated 2. Ambitious 3. Creative 4. Friendly 5. Obsessive

Bianca Puentes is a mom of two who took on baking as a hobby and turned it into my career and passion. She is a self-taught and leaned everything, believe it or not from – YouTube.

Do you have a favorite pastry?

I bake so many different pastries from madeleines to cinnamon rolls but I would have to say that my French Macarons are definitely the most requested dessert, with my macaron scones coming in second.

What was the biggest challenge starting a business?

This past year was extremely different for an entrepreneur, my biggest challenge obtaining my business license was definitely COVID. Everything was just delayed because I had to schedule an appointment for every little thing. It definitely made me work harder and it made everything that much more special.

What do you enjoy most about baking?

I just love coming up with new things and new flavors, I feel like a mad scientist when I’m in the kitchen, it’s pretty awesome.

The Desert Pâtisserie Home based baker POP-Ups Only Located in Indio, CA social media: @THEDESERTPATISSERIE

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WE LLNE S S

THE

ROYAL TREATMENT

3 SPAS

TO RELAX, RENEW & REFRESH

by JUANITA MENDOZA and JORGE PEREZCHICA

Self-care is not just a buzzword, it’s a vital aspect to one’s health and well-being.

Spa days in a picturesque desert setting, what could be better? Massages can add a luxuriously essential component to your self-care routine, and the Coachella Valley has a varied selection of spa packages to fill your individual needs. From a traditional spa-day to unique wellness experience... your journey to relaxation awaits.

Photos courtesy of Mojave Desert Skin Shield

MOJAVE DESERT SKIN SHIELD JOSHUA TREE, CA

Mojave Desert Skin Shield is a biodynamic skincare and clothing studio founded in Joshua Tree California.

The magically picturesque setting serves as a reminder that the offerings are not only founded by nature but validated by science. The founders have made every effort to ensure that the healing products and experiences offered are made of the most high quality ingredients inspired by the healing traditions of ancient medicine and its people, Self care is at the heart of any visit, whether you have come for a healing sound bath, a fascial, or simply to pick up some goodies for a little DIY self care at home.

While there are a variety of services offered, one in particular stands out, the unique and phenomenal sound healing session. According to the brochure, “A binaural sound bath has potential to detox both the physical and the emotional body, calibrating the nervous system, and releasing stagnant trauma while calming the mind.”

This sound medicine procedure involves the use of a set of 20 binaurally tuned quartz bowls, the specific combination of which creates a rinse-like experience on a cellular level. The frequencies at which the bowls vibrate align and correspond with our own natural

vibrations. As if the experience itself wasn’t enough to have me sold, the calm and serene environment in which the ritual is performed makes it all the more mystical.

If you are in the mood for providing this experience for a large group, the space can accommodate larger private groups and can even be set up off site as well, as long as ample space is available for set-up.

The facial healing treatment, nicknamed the fascial, is 100 minutes long and emphasizes work on the fascial system. This treatment is meant to of course boost the skin’s outward appearance, but is also known to “aid digestion, help with sleep, and help detoxify organs,” states Mojave Desert Skin Shield.

Another must try on your visit is the tea ceremony.

The ceremony is elevated to a next level experience that can be shared with your group. The ritual begins with silent meditation and moves into opportunities for meaningful conversation.

Mojave Desert Skin has many other offerings, a vast array of skincare products and more. This serene and beautiful desert retreat is a must for a day of indulging all of the senses in the beauty of self-care. web: MOJAVEDESERTSKINSHIELD.COM

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Photo courtesy of Miramonte

THE WELL SPA

INDIAN WELLS, CA

The Well Spa is nestled in the beautiful and lush landscape of the Miramonte Resort. Walking through the enormous wooden doors, you are immediately transported to a calm and serene state of mind. I arrived for my appointment with my masseuse, Joanne and was warmly greeted by Kathleen who offered me a glass of water infused with the lemons grown right on the property and checked me in. A COVID questionnaire and signatures for treatment were completed and we were off! Joanna walked me through the warm and inviting reception area to the women’s locker room.

Just before the locker room is a door opening out to the private pool and spa for those wishing to make a day of their spa experience. There were a few treatment rooms out by the pool as well as a private lounging area to enjoy. While on the spa’s private patio, food and drinks could be ordered and enjoyed while soaking up the sun.

As I entered the locker room, I was met with the relaxing and cleansing smell of eucalyptus, there were separate areas with locker rooms, bathrooms, two large mirrored areas with a few vanity items on the counter while others were available upon request. Finally in the far back of the locker room, are the showers to the left

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and a sauna on the right. While the sauna is unavailable during COVID times, you can find a eucalyptus spray in the shower that instantly boosts your shower to a delightful aromatherapeutic experience.

Joanna led me to my locker, I changed into my luxurious robe and comfy slippers and headed back out to meet Joanna. We walked to my massage room and Joanna explained the treatment I would be receiving which included a choice of energizing or relaxing aromatherapy oils, for an additional charge, CBD oils can be used to enhance the experience. She then left the room so that I could get myself situated on the massage table and came back in.

I opted for the CBD enhancer with an energizing lift for my full body massage. A 50 minute focused massage tailored to the needs of my body. I felt a little taller and much more relaxed and calm with all of the tension seeming to have melted off of my body, I will be seeing Joanna, Kathleen and the rest of the team at The Well at Miramonte again soon. web: MIRAMONTERESORT.COM/THE-WELL-SPA

RANCHO MIRAGE, CA

Photos courtesy of Agua Caliente

SUNSTONE

Welcome to Agua Caliente Rancho Mirage, a desert oasis located less than 20 minutes from Palm Springs.

When I first read the accolades and awards boasting from Sunstone Spa at Agua Caliente, I couldn’t help but get excited about my appointment — and it did not disappoint. I chose a relaxing Swedish massage treatment (60 minutes) followed by a Halotherapy session. As I sat alone in the salt room meditating, my breathing improved and my mind whisked away into relaxation. Sunstone Spa has been rated the #1 Spa in California and is the only Forbes Five-Star Spa located at a casino in the entire Country.

Sunstone Spa become Sharecare Health Security VERIFIED®. The newly established Sharecare Health Security VERIFIED® with Forbes Travel Guide badge is addressing the critical need to establish confidence with guests and travel planners in the age of COVID-19.

Whether you are taking a break from the gaming floors or looking for a serene retreat from life’s hustle and bustle, Sunstone the Spa at Agua Calient offers a rage of options to fit your needs. The multi-award winning Sunstone Spa will surround you with sights, sounds and aromas that will immediately begin the moment you walk through the doors. Take a moment to peruse the online menu and get to know the spa and all the services and amenities available for your experience.

RANCHO MIRAGE, CA

Walk-in appointments are always welcome and based on availability but reservations are encouraged to ensure that your therapist, and/or preferred treatments and times are available.

Sunstone Spa is open for Hair, Nails, Massage, Facials Waxing, Day Pass with Halotherapy session, Spa Boutique shopping and Cabana rentals. Spa Services and Spa Cabana rentals will be by appointment only.

web: HOTWATERCASINO.COM/SPA

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ADVERTOR I A L

KEVIN CROCKETT What to Do if You’re Injured at an Airbnb During festivals like Splash House, White Party, and Stagecoach, visitors seeking fun and adventure book up Coachella Valley’s Airbnb’s. They’re also popular during the rest of the year for bachelor/bachelorette parties, milestone birthdays, and other events that bring families and friends together. Unfortunately, not all Airbnb hosts properly maintain their rentals, causing injuries that could have been prevented. That’s why it’s good to know that if an Airbnb host was negligent in creating or allowing a dangerous condition, and you’re injured as a result, you should be able to seek compensation under an insurance policy of up to a million dollars.

Airbnb Hosts Can Be Sued for Negligence Airbnb hosts are required to use reasonable care to ensure the property they are renting to consumers is safe. All property owners have a duty to regularly inspect their property for dangers, but that responsibility is greater when a property is used to make money. For example, an Airbnb host can’t get away scot-free by simply claiming they didn’t know there was a hole in the floor as you step through the front door. That’s because Airbnb hosts have a duty to make reasonable inspections. There is an expectation that Airbnb hosts will inspect their property for hazards prior to each new guest’s arrival, whether they do it themselves or they hire help to perform those services. The Airbnb host is then expected to repair, or give adequate warning of, any potentially dangerous condition they find. That’s why if you’re injured at an Airbnb due to a dangerous condition, such as a broken staircase or greasy floor, you’ve got a good chance at a successful outcome. Of course, every case is different, and hosts are not responsible for minor imperfections. There is also an expectation that guests will use the property normally.

In other words, you probably won’t be compensated if you’re injured while sliding down a staircase after a long night of drinking White Claw. So, the best way to find out if you have a claim is to speak to an experienced Airbnb liability attorney.

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Airbnb Host Protection Insurance One of the most tragic outcomes for any personal injury claim is when there isn’t enough insurance coverage to fully compensate a victim. Airbnb “Host Protection Insurance” covers guests who are injured due to a host’s negligence or recklessness for all stays booked through Airbnb up to a million dollars. There are just a few exclusions to this insurance coverage, such as: 1. Intentional acts of the owner, 2. Pollution, and 3. Mold.

Some Airbnb’s don’t take their responsibility to keep their guests safe seriously, so it’s reassuring to know that Airbnb provides a substantial amount of insurance to compensate guests.

Airbnb Liability Attorney If you’ve been injured at a Coachella Valley Airbnb, it’s important to get legal advice from an Airbnb liability attorney as soon as possible so that evidence can be preserved, and deadlines can be met. Call an experienced Palm Springs personal injury law firm for a free consultation.

Kevin Crockett Kevin Crockett is a partner at the Crockett Law Group, a Palm Springs personal injury law firm. He helps people who have been injured in accidents, such as auto accidents, motorcycle accidents, trucking accidents, dog bites, slip and falls, etc.

Kevin was recently named to Ones to Watch for Personal Injury Litigation, a recognition awarded by Best Lawyers to attorneys for their outstanding professional excellence in private practice.

CONTACT: WEB:

kevin@crockettlawgroup.com crockettlawgroup.com/palm-springs

MA RKET PL ACE

The Desert Pâtisserie Guaranteed fresh and delicious Bianca Puentes, owner Home based baker POP-Ups Only Located in Indio, CA TEL: (760) 912-6909 Instagram: @thedesertpatisserie Macarons / Cookies / Brownies / Scones / and more!

Benjamin Perdereau | French Resort Apparel TEL: (760) 902-6137 WEB: benjaminperdereau.com 184 N Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs CA 92262 Instagram @benjamin_palmsprings_fashion

TEL: (724) 426-6543 WEB: thebestcookieps.com INSTAGRAM: @thebestcookieps LOCAL, FRESH BAKED EVERY MORNING, FOR YOUR OFFICES, CLIENTS, AND OPEN HOUSES.

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