Binge watch The Office for the tenth time

by BRIGID FLAHERTY staff writer As we head home and prepare for online classes next week, midterm papers, projects, and exams will soak up Duhawks’ energy and attention. But there will be opportunities to soak up the sun a little more often.

The first weekend of March saw temperatures soar into the 60’s. Students around campus held impromptu bags tournaments, hammocked to enjoy the sun, and even sat outside to finish homework. Though schedules might be hectic, the sunshine can help clear away the blues left from the cold temperatures. Senior Morgan Muenster mentioned that the warmer weather gets rid of seasonal depression.

“It gives me more energy to be able to finish out this semester strong,” senior Syndey Reilly added.

Senior Shania Kelly, who appreciated the warm weather this past weekend by hiking, hammocking, and going for a run also voiced some concerns.

“I love that it’s this nice outside. It finally feels like spring, but I know that it shouldn’t be this warm this quick,” she said.

According to US Climate Data’s website, Dubuque’s average high for March is 44 degrees. Though the forecast calls for a few days over 50 degrees in the coming weeks, many have a forecast of upper 40’s and rain – much more common for March. “A couple warm days aren’t a huge problem for me. However, we know that there’s less snow and ice coverage globally which will affect the earth’s temperature and sea levels,” said junior Alyssa Corkery. “I love hammocking on the ARC lawn and going for hikes at Swiss Valley, but I’m mindful of how my actions impact the environment. Companies need to make an effort to help the environment too.” Corkery makes a point of utilizing reusable produce bags and glassware for storage to cutback on plastic, as well as

photo by JON QUINN Squirrel-ling around A squirrel in the “Loras Forest” peaks out from around a tree. In times of high anxiety, taking time to enjoy the little things can go a long way. Exercising outside can help reduce stress and improve your overall attitude.

recycling all she can. She also says that she’s most excited for upcoming spring produce such as watermelon, asparagus, and strawberries because she gave up meat for Lent.

“I’m thriving in this weather,” said junior Luke Pranger as he enjoys spending time outdoors.

However, one student lamented the warm temperatures. French exchange student, Sébastien Loreau, laughed and guessed that winter might finally be over – but he hoped for another chance to try sledding. Another French student, Adèle Grenouilleau, disagreed with Loreau by saying she likes the warm weather and senior Erin Brown echoed the sentiment. “The warm weather is perfect for a walk downtown to some of the neat shops or even go on the Fourth Street Elevator,” Brown said. “It’s a great way to spend a Saturday or a Sunday.”

The streets of downtown Dubuque are lined with unique shops, cafés, and restaurants as unique and vibrant as the various murals that decorate the facades around town. Anything you can think of, these stores sell it — organic spices, Irish imports, homemade ice-cream, Midwestthemed T-shirts and caps, fair trade goods, and antiques. The Fourth Street Elevator climbs the bluff next to some of these shops and is open in April. At $3.00 for a round-trip, it is an experience topped — quite literally — by fantastic views.

As we deal with the health crisis posed by the coronavirus, remember that spring will arrive and there will be opportunities to get outside and enjoy the weather. The fresh air is good for you. Protect your health and those you love, and don’t forget the sunscreen as winter’s clouds fade away.

by HARRIET SIEGRIST staff writer As if we aren’t facing enough health problems, as the weather warms up and spring draws closer, so does allergy season. Seasonal allergies have their way of sneaking up on you, but this season take a few precautions and stop allergies right in their tracks. Say goodbye to sneezing and watery eyes and take charge of your health.

Know the cause

The biggest trigger when it comes to spring is pollen. Pollen are tiny grains produced by plants. When they release their pollen into the air, they are trying to fertilize other plants. Unfortunately, these small grains often end up near our noses, causing our bodies to react. Your immune system goes into defense mode and tries to attack the allergens. As your body fights back, histamines are released into your blood. These histamines are what triggers your body to have symptoms like a runny nose and itchy eyes. Keep in mind that pollen is capable of traveling miles, so even if you don’t see a plant near you, there can still be pollen in the air.

Watch the pollen reports

Just like with the weather, some days are better than others and that’s why it is important to monitor the pollen reports. Thankfully there are many ways to access them. One popular app for seeing the pollen report for the day is WeatherBug. From giving you the pollen index for the day to showing you which triggers are dominating, the app will be sure to keep you updated. If you’re not a fan, there are other apps you can try so search the app store to find what one works best for you.

As surprising as it may sound, making a few changes in your diet could help with your seasonal allergies by keeping the sneezing at bay. The next time you’re out at the cafeteria for a meal, stock up on vegetables and add a fruit or two to your plate as well. Fruits and vegetables are well knowing for being powerful sources of antioxidants. Lucky for you, these antioxidants act as

natural chemicals that are capable of fighting the inflammation that is caused by

allergic reactions.

Try out Green Tea

Aside from adding an apple and carrot sticks to your daily diet, you can also try out a new drink to fight the symptoms. Green tea is a power drink that is filled with natural antihistamines. These antihistamines are also able to assist you in your allergy fight. Hot or cold, the benefits are all there in the cup. If you suffer from a scratchy throat however, opt for a hot cup of green tea to soothe the scratchiness and to also loosen mucus.

Break out the sunglasses and baseball cap

Your baseball cap and sunglasses are good for more than just protecting yourself from the sun and its UV rays. Wearing these items will also protect your face from pollen. These two items can efficiently act as a block and limit the amount of pollen that gets into your eyes when you’re outside

Restock your Medicine Cabinet

If you’re not convinced that these precautions will be enough to stop your runny nose, you may want to stock up your medicine cabinet with some allergy relief medication. Over the counter medicines such as Claritin and Zyrtec are great to take when seasonal allergies start flaring up. If you’ve tried out everything and still have symptoms, you may want to talk to your doctor and see if a prescribed medication is better for you.

With all of these tips in mind, you’re ready to get outside and enjoy the fresh air with a little less annoyance of allergies.