Marissa Gruler News Today : Breaking News, Live Updates & Top Stories | Vimarsana

• Howard Park ice trail and pond: South Bend tentatively aims to keep this open through March 17 but could go later if the weather is ideal for it, Director of Recreation Jonathan Jones says. • Merrifield Ice Rink: Sunday was the Mishawaka rink’s final day, as this older facility won’t be able to keep ice through the forecast warmth and sun, Aquatics/Ice Director Marissa Gruler says. • NIBCO Water & Ice Park: This ice ribbon in Elkhart also closed for the season Sunday because of the weather.

A few red-winged blackbirds and a flock or two of sandhill cranes arrived over the weekend. Maple sap was running. Like usual for the start of March. But it still isn’t a usual winter for ski resorts. If it were, the downhill season at Swiss Valley Ski & Snowboard Area in Jones would toast its finale this Sunday — typically a week into March. Instead, spokesman Mike Panich says the resort has booked its “Slush Cup” contest (a sort of farewell party) for March 14 with the option of staying open even longer if the weather permits and visitors keep coming. Snowmelt or not, th...