Posted Nov 24, 2008 by Elite News Team Two dynamic women chefs lead resorts culinary team

Rancho Mirage, Calif.- October 2, 2008 - From ocean beach to desert sand comes seasoned, innovative and passionate Shannon Olvera, the new chef de cuisine of bluEmber at Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa. Olvera will hone her culinary creativity on new menu developments as well as oversee operations of the resorts signature restaurant that opened in November 2007. bluEmber offers 278-seats, private dining rooms, and serves breakfast, lunch and dinner daily.

Shannon is a talented chef whose experience and enthusiasm will keep bluEmber fresh, fun and leading edge, says Executive Chef Leanne Kamekona. We are excited to welcome her to the Rancho Las Palmas team.

With the addition of Olvera, Rancho Las Palmas becomes one of the only area resorts to be led by female chefs. Whats more, both were born and raised in Hawaii- a region that each woman draws from for inspiration and creativity in the kitchen. Olveras cuisine has been described as a melting pot of fresh California, Euro Asian and Central Mexican Cuisines. Some of her signature dishes include: Lobster Crab & Sweet Local Corn Cakes, Spicy Steak Tar Tar, Vine Ripened Tomato & Mozzarella Martini, and her slow Braised Osso Bucco Beef Short Ribs.

Olvera began her culinary career at the acclaimed Roys Restaurant Hawaii Kai in Honolulu, Hawaii. During her six years at Roys, Olvera learned the art of Euro Asian Pacific Rim cuisine. She then went on to open several Roys Restaurants on the mainland including those in San Francisco, Tampa, Baltimore and Rancho Mirage. In 2002, Olvera left Roys and was hand selected to open the very popular Spencers by the mountain in Palms Springs, Calif. as the chef. In 2004, she trained at Tommy Bahamas Restaurant in Palm Desert, Calif. to open the Town Square property in Las Vegas, Nev. as executive chef. While working at Roys and Tommy Bahamas, Olvera enjoyed a reputation for excellence that was honored in the form of local awards and accolades.

Designed by the renowned Puccini Group, bluEmber is Rancho Las Palmas Resorts signature dining experience. The restaurant showcases the regions rich harvest in a setting that exudes the sun-drenched charm of the desert and the relaxed elegance of Southern California. Gather at a handsome carved wood table inside, or by a crackling fire pit on the plaza, for a highly memorable dining experience. Posted Nov 24, 2008 by Elite News Team RANCHO MIRAGE, Calif. " September 29, 2008 " Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa continues the evolution of desert cool with the debut of 18 newly redesigned suites that include two expansive Presidential Suites, eight Luxury Suites and eight Executive Suites. The suites are yet another step in the continuing transformation of this classic desert resort, which recently completed a $35 million renovation that included bluEmber restaurant, the stylish R Bar lounge, a new lobby, enhanced guest rooms, refurbished spa, an Internet marketplace and Splashtopia, an exciting water complex.

This area draws a discerning traveler who is seeking the latest in technology, design and comfort for their experience. Rancho Las Palmas continues to grow its legacy as one of the most desired properties in the area by providing the kind of experience these travelers expect, says Josh Herman, director of marketing.

Boasting lake and golf course views, the revamped suites feature richly carved woods, crown moldings and attractive French doors that open to outdoor patios. Each suite is outfitted with an elegant living space that includes a variety of plush seating options, 42 plasma TVs and expanded wet-bars. Bedrooms offer premium mattresses draped in plush down comforters with luxurious cotton linens and bathrooms feature slab granite counter tops and beautiful millwork cabinetry.