French Lick, IN — Spa Magazine just announced its choices for “Top Spas in the Midwest” and West Baden made the exclusive list. On newsstands now, the March/April 2010 issue promotes the fact that “you don’t have to go to the coast for a luxurious, restorative getaway.” The Spa at West Baden was chosen for its strong connection to the local mineral water and its signature Sprudel baths. (A full page photo of the West Baden atrium ran alongside the feature). The spa features a two-level natatorium housing the full-service spa with 12 treatment rooms, a full-service salon and health club with an indoor lap pool.

“This latest honor from Spa Magazine is like hitting the trifecta,” said Amanda Hawkins Vogel, Vice President of Operations. First, West Baden made Conde Nast Traveler’s exclusive Gold List, then the Pete Dye Course won ‘Best New Course in America’ and now this exciting recognition for our spa. We couldn’t be happier.”

For the full West Baden experience, Spa Director Kim Allen recommends taking advantage of one of the spa rituals. These multi-service packages offer the ultimate in rejuvenation.

West Baden Exclusive Spa Ritual
A transforming experience from head to toe, enjoying all West Baden has to offer. Beginning with a relaxing soak in the Hydrotherapy bath, moved to one of our facial rooms to receive The Signature Facial, followed by the Aromatherapy Massage and ending with a luxurious Zents manicure and pedicure.
250 minutes · $499.50

West Baden Signature Ritual
A pampering and healing Ritual featuring some of our West Baden signature services. You will begin by soaking in our Signature Sprudel Bath, afterwards receiving our Signature Facial, and then melt away in our Aromatherapy Massage. This is a total body rejuvenation fit for royalty.
150 minutes · $351

Detoxifying Ritual
A total rejuvenation Ritual for those who are experiencing a lack of energy or a low sense of well-being. This treatment combination will remove the buildup of toxins and stress from your body. It includes; an...

SPRINGS VALLEY, INDIANA — It may look like a Winter Wonderland outside, but French Lick Resort has one thing on its mind – Spring! Warm weather and sunshine are quickly approaching, so trade those winter boots for flip flops and head to French Lick for our Spring Break Bash.

Photo: French Lick Springs Hotel Courtyard, frenchlick.com

There will be plenty to keep the whole family busy. Children 6-12 will be entertained the resort’s KidsFest program with a variety of activities offered Wednesday through Saturday. Children can develop their inner-Picasso and take home their artwork as a souvenir during KidArts and cook up some tasty treats in KidCooks. All ages will love the Bowling, Arcade and Pizza Party on Friday evenings.

We haven’t forgotten about Mom and Dad! In addition to great golfing, spa treatments and casino gaming, the Spring Break Bash offers family-friendly pool parties on Saturday afternoons. Parents can also check out..

"INDIANAPOLIS — Pacers president Larry Bird is urging fans to remain patient through the team’s struggles.

Indiana enters the All-Star break with an 18-34 record, well out of the playoff race after missing the postseason for the past three seasons. Last month, some players were openly wondering if their “weak-minded” defense could be righted and attendance woes have been a problem now for years, along with assorted off-the-court issues.

Yet Bird says the rebuilding phase that began when the Pacers traded Ron Artest in 2006 is on target, and will move into high gear after next season when the team gets salary cap space.

“We knew that we had to clean it out and rebuild it, and we knew we were going to go through some tough times,” Bird told The Associated Press this week. “Nobody likes to lose, and everybody wants to be a part of a winner. We think we’re on the right track to get there.”

Bird also took the pressure off coach Jim O’Brien, who is in his third year after back-to-back 36-46 seasons. O’Brien signed a one-year extension last September to coach through the end of next season, and Bird said he is in no danger of being replaced.

“The one thing Jimmy bought into when he came here was that we were going to rebuild, and we were going to struggle at times,” Bird said. “I always say the losses are on me because I want him to work these guys hard, develop the young guys we have and keep moving forward with what we have.”

The Pacers have suffered through a series of injuries. Top scorer Danny Granger missed a month with a heel injury, center Jeff Foster is out for the season with a back injury, guard/forward Mike Dunleavy...