Arthur Getz’s Memorial Day Cover
I could be wrong about this, but I believe that this Arthur Getz cover, dated May 30, 1958, is the first Memorial Day themed New Yorker cover (I looked through every end of May issue from 1925 to 1958). The cover shows us The Eternal Light Flagstaff located in Manhattan’s Madison Square Park, along its west side on Broadway.
The screen grab from Google’s street map shows the monument today (the base mostly obscured b
I could be wrong about this, but I believe that this Arthur Getz cover, dated May 30, 1958, is the first Memorial Day themed New Yorker cover (I looked through every end of May issue from 1925 to 1958). The cover shows us The Eternal Light Flagstaff located in Manhattan’s Madison Square Park, along its west side on Broadway.
The screen grab from Google’s street map shows the monument today (the base mostly obscured by a blossom tree. A few of the buildings Mr. Getz painted remain along Broadway.
Dedicated on Veteran’s Day in the mid 1920s, the monument, according to the New York Department of Records includes a:
star-shaped luminaire at the top of the pole [that] is intended to be lit at all times as an eternal tribute to those who paid the supreme sacrifice.
Arthur Getz Born, Passaic, New Jersey, 1913; died, 1996. NYer work: 1938 -1988. Primarily a cover artist, he had one cartoon published: March 15, 1958. (You might say his career was a mirror image of George Price’s, who was one of the most prolific cartoonists, with over 1200 published, and one cover). According to the official Getz website, he was the most prolific of all New Yorker cover artists, having 213 appear during the fifty years he contributed to the magazine. The official Getz website, containing his biography.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard party or going to a potluck, celebrate the holiday with nine of our favorite Memorial Day recipes — easy skewers, flavorful burgers, tangy chicken wings and healthy sides and desserts.
Your Memorial Day weekend cookout will be the talk of the town!
EGG SALAD PROVENCAL IN LETTUCE WRAPS | MYFITNESSPAL’S RECIPES
Nutrition (per serving): Calories: 162; Total Fat: 12g; Saturated Fat: 3g; Monounsaturated Fat: 6g; Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g; Cholesterol:
Whether you’re hosting a backyard party or going to a potluck, celebrate the holiday with nine of our favorite Memorial Day recipes — easy skewers, flavorful burgers, tangy chicken wings and healthy sides and desserts.
Your Memorial Day weekend cookout will be the talk of the town!
By marking the day now instead of tomorrow, I’m likely going to miss quite a few Memorial Day cartoons, but I like the simplicity of Bennett’s political statement. Bennett’s minimalist cartoon reminds us of why we have Memorial Day while, by placing the War Powers Act amid the graves, he mourns the rule of law […]
By marking the day now instead of tomorrow, I’m likely going to miss quite a few Memorial Day cartoons, but I like the simplicity of Bennett’s political statement. Bennett’s minimalist cartoon reminds us of why we have Memorial Day while, by placing the War Powers Act amid the graves, he mourns the rule of law […]
Summer is filled with backyard BBQs, holiday cookouts, and outdoor gatherings where food takes center stage. While these events are one of the best parts of the season, navigating them on a weight loss journey on a GLP-1 medication can feel a little overwhelming, especially when the invites start piling up.
Between the heat, alcohol, endless buffet-style options, and social pressures, it’s easy to lose touch with what your body actually needs. And when you factor in common side effects like
Summer is filled with backyard BBQs, holiday cookouts, and outdoor gatherings where food takes center stage. While these events are one of the best parts of the season, navigating them on a weight loss journey on a GLP-1 medication can feel a little overwhelming, especially when the invites start piling up.
Between the heat, alcohol, endless buffet-style options, and social pressures, it’s easy to lose touch with what your body actually needs. And when you factor in common side effects like nausea or early fullness, even a casual cookout can take a bit more planning to stay on track with your goals.
Thankfully, focusing on a few simple strategies, such as adding protein to each plate, staying hydrated, and practicing mindful eating can allow you to show up feeling confident, stay consistent with your goals, and still fully enjoy all the experiences summer can offer.
On a GLP-1 journey?
Track your meds & meals in MyFitnessPal to build better habits for your GLP-1 journey – and beyond.
When you’re at a barbeque, it’s not just about what you eat, it’s also about knowing how different foods may feel in your body while on a GLP-1. “Some classic barbeque favorites can be harder to tolerate or may slow your progress, while others can actually help you feel your best and stay satisfied (1),” explains MyFitnessPal dietitian Katherine Basbaum. Here is a breakdown of some of the most common barbeque foods you may encounter this summer and how each can impact your GLP-1 journey. To understand how these foods impact you, try tracking your food intake in MyFitnessPal, which you can do quickly using the voice logging feature, for instant insights on how your food choices affect your progress.
Meats and Main Dishes
Hot dogs, sausages, and brats: These are classic cookout staples, but they tend to be higher in saturated fat and sodium, which may feel heavier and more likely to trigger nausea or reflux when digestion is already slowed on a GLP-1 (1). If you do want to enjoy these on occasion, choose a smaller portion, or pair one with a lighter side like fruit or a veggie salad instead of loading up on multiple processed meats.
Burger patties and cheeseburgers: Yes, you can eat a burger on GLP-1, but a large, greasy burger with cheese and rich toppings may sit uncomfortably and worsen fullness or reflux. For a more GLP-1 friendly option, choose a smaller lean option made from lean beef, chicken, turkey, or even a veggie burger on a whole-grain bun topped with fresh veggies and avocado.
Pulled pork and ribs: Can you eat pork while on GLP-1? Yes, but fattier cuts and barbecue-style preparations can be harder to tolerate, especially if you are already prone to nausea or indigestion. Choose leaner pork when possible, and keep the portion to about three ounces or less. Then pair it with a lighter side such as a garden salad or fresh fruit.
Steak and other red meat: If you have been wondering ‘is steak ok to eat on GLP-1,’ the answer is yes, but large portions or higher-fat cuts may feel dense and slow to digest, especially at a buffet-style meal. Opt for a smaller portion of a leaner cut and stop eating when you feel satisfied rather than overly full.
Chicken breast, grilled chicken, and seafood: These are often easier choices because they provide protein without as much added fat, which can be helpful when you want to feel full without overloading your stomach. Grilled fish, shrimp, or chicken breast are generally better cookout picks than fried or heavily breaded options.
Fried foods: Fried chicken, fried fish, and other crispy sides are common barbeque favorites, but higher-fat foods can worsen nausea, bloating, and diarrhea on GLP-1 medications (1). If you want to enjoy them, just focus on small portions and fill the rest of your plate with light choices such as fresh produce.
Bacon: Is bacon ok with GLP-1? In small amounts, yes, but bacon is a processed, salty, high-fat food that can be rough on sensitive stomachs. A few slices for flavor is usually easier than making it the main protein, but limit this to an occasional choice.
Spicy meats and spice-heavy rubs: Can you eat spicy food on GLP-1? Sometimes, but spicy foods can aggravate reflux or nausea in people who are already more prone to GI symptoms on these medications. If you love heat, start with a mild amount and see how your body responds before committing to extra hot sauces or fiery rubs.
Sauces, Seasonings, and Condiments
Barbecue sauce: Is barbecue sauce healthy? Barbecue sauce can absolutely fit into a cookout meal, but it’s one to be mindful of. Many versions are high in added sugar and sodium, which can quickly turn a balanced plate into something that feels heavier on your stomach. Instead of coating your food, try a light drizzle, or opt for a lower-sugar version when you can.
Hot sauce and spicy condiments: Yes, you can have hot sauce on a GLP-1, but tolerance really matters here. Spicy condiments may trigger reflux, heartburn, or nausea in some people on a GLP-1, especially when paired with larger or higher-fat meals, because GLP-1 medications slow gastric emptying and can make GI symptoms more noticeable (3). If you enjoy the heat, start with a small amount and see how your body responds.
Rubs, marinades, and glazes: Rubs and marinades are a great way to add flavor, but not all are created equal. Some bottled options are rich in added salt, sugar, and extra ingredients that can be tough on digestion. Keeping it simple with herbs, spices, citrus, garlic, or vinegar-based marinades is often a better choice. When choosing premade rubs, read the food label and look for varieties with little to no added sugar.
Creamy sauces and dips: Creamy dressings, ranch, aioli, and cheese-based dips tend to be higher in fat, which can slow digestion and make feelings of fullness or nausea more intense. You don’t have to skip them entirely, but keep portions small or try swapping in options like mustard, salsa, or a light vinaigrette to help prevent any uncomfortable side effects.
Sides and Salads
Macaroni salad, potato salad, and coleslaw: These classic sides tend to be rich in fat from the added mayonnaise, which can slow digestion and cause you to feel uncomfortably full since digestion is already slowed on a GLP-1. You don’t have to skip them completely, but a smaller scoop usually works best. Many people find they feel better opting for a simple salad or a lighter, less creamy version instead.
Cornbread, rolls, and grain-heavy salads: Pasta salads, bread baskets, and other starchy sides can fill you up quickly without much nutritional value. That can make it harder to get enough protein in a smaller meal. If you’re going to include them, keep portions modest and build your plate around protein first.
Fresh fruit and vegetable sides: Fruit salad, cut melon, green salads, and grilled vegetables are often much easier to digest than heavier sides. They add hydration, fiber, and volume without that overly full feeling. These are especially helpful in warmer weather when appetite tends to be lower and can make it easier to meet your nutrient and hydration goals (4).
Chips, crackers, and snack mixes: These are easy to mindlessly snack on at a party, but they’re typically low in protein and fiber, so they don’t keep you satisfied for long. Try to think of them as a small add-on rather than the foundation of your plate.
Mayo-based dips and spreads: Yes, you can have mayo on a GLP-1, but a little goes a long way. It’s calorie-dense and higher in fat, which can increase fullness or GI side effects for some people. A thin spread or light dip is usually much better tolerated than a heavier portion.
Desserts and Sweet Treats
Cake, pie, brownies, and cookies: Dessert is part of the fun of cookout season, but rich sweets can feel like a lot after a full meal, especially on a GLP-1. For some people, they can also trigger nausea or reflux (1). You don’t have to skip them, but a few bites or a smaller portion is often all you need to enjoy it without feeling uncomfortable.
Ice cream and frozen treats: These can be really refreshing in the summer, but higher-fat options may sit a bit heavier, especially if digestion is already slowed. If you’re craving something cold and sweet, smaller portions or lighter choices, like fruit pops or yogurt-based treats, are often easier to tolerate.
Fruit-based desserts: Fresh fruit can make the best dessert choice on a GLP-1 medication. Not only can these fruits satisfy your sweet tooth without the heaviness of traditional desserts, but you’ll also get hydration and fiber (10), which can help you feel better overall, especially in the heat.
Sugary and Alcoholic Drinks
Soda, lemonade, punch, and sweet tea: Sugary drinks can add a lot of excess sugar and calories without much satiety, which makes them a poor fit when appetite is already reduced on GLP-1 medication. A better bet is water, unsweetened iced tea, or a lightly flavored low-sugar drink.
Diet soda and zero-sugar soda: Can you drink diet soda on GLP-1? You usually can, but carbonation may increase bloating, belching, or stomach discomfort in some people because GLP-1 medications already slow digestion (5). If carbonated drinks make you feel gassy, flat water or another non-carbonated option is often more comfortable.
Prebiotic sodas: “Prebiotic sodas may seem like a healthier swap, but they can still cause gas or bloating in sensitive stomachs because they are often carbonated and may contain added fibers or sweeteners that bother some people. They are not automatically a better choice if your main goal is GI comfort, but if you can tolerate them, they can make a gut-friendly alternative to traditional sodas,” shares Basbaum.
Beer, wine, cocktails, and other alcohol: Can you drink alcohol on GLP-1? Some people may be able to drink moderately, but alcohol may intensify nausea, dehydration, or overall GI discomfort, and recent research also suggests GLP-1 medications may alter alcohol intake or craving in some users (6). When it comes to beer on a GLP-1, remember that in addition to the alcohol content, beer’s carbonation can add to bloating, so it may cause some GI discomfort in addition to the side effects from alcohol.
How to Build a GLP-1-Friendly Plate at the Next Outdoor BBQ
Walking up to a BBQ spread can feel overwhelming when you’re on a GLP-1, but it doesn’t have to be. Instead of overthinking every food choice, focus on building your plate with intention. A simple structure can help you stay satisfied, reduce the risk of side effects, and still enjoy everything the event has to offer.
Start With Protein First: Fill half your plate with lean protein like grilled chicken, fish, or seafood before anything else. This helps preserve muscle mass during weight loss and promotes satiety without overloading your stomach (13).
Add Hydrating Produce: Layer on water-rich fruits and vegetables such as watermelon, cucumber, berries, leafy greens, or grilled zucchini. These add fiber to support digestion and hydration, especially in summer heat when thirst signals may be reduced (10).
Portion Control: Use a smaller plate or aim for modest servings of starches, sauces, or treats. GLP-1 medications help you feel full faster, so smaller portions prevent discomfort while letting you enjoy the spread.
Avoid Stacking Multiple Heavy Foods Together:Consider avoiding fried items, creamy sides, and rich meats on one plate. High-fat or processed combos can worsen nausea or bloating, so mix light and lean elements instead.
Pause Mid-Meal: Take a break halfway through to check in with your body and sip water. This aligns with the slowed digestion from GLP-1s, helping you avoid overeating and side effects.
Hydrate Alongside Your Meal: Sip water or unsweetened drinks with your food rather than waiting until after. Aim for consistent hydration to offset potential constipation or dehydration, particularly outdoors.
Success at a summer gathering isn’t just about what you eat, but also about how you eat it. The way you approach your meals can make a big difference in how you feel. Here are a few simple strategies to help minimize side effects, stay on track with your goals, and enjoy every cookout this summer.
Manage the Heat and Hydrate
Hot weather can make dehydration sneak up quickly, and that’s especially important to stay on top of when you’re on a GLP-1. Side effects like nausea, early fullness, vomiting, or diarrhea can already make it harder to drink enough (7). Instead of waiting until you feel thirsty, aim to sip water consistently before, during, and after outdoor events. “When you’re out in warm weather, carry a refillable water bottle and consider a lower sugar electrolyte drink, especially if you’re sweating more or dealing with GI side effects,” shares Basbaum. And remember, alcohol can worsen dehydration and may hit harder when you’re eating less, so keep it in moderation and avoid drinking on an empty stomach (8).
Plan for the Week, Not Just One Cookout
Consistency over time matters more than any one meal. To help you plan ahead, consider planning out meals and snacks in advance, so you can have a better handle on your food choices at a barbeque or social event. Try using an app like MyFitnessPal to pre-plan your day, before attending events to help reduce decision fatigue and ensure you meet your daily nutrition goals. Just remember, one barbecue won’t derail your progress. The goal is to stay nourished and feel your best while enjoying the summer season.
Handle Social Eating With Confidence
It’s completely normal to feel a little out of sync at cookouts when you’re getting full faster than others. You don’t need to explain your choices or match anyone else’s plate. Keeping it simple can make social situations feel much easier. Try responses like, “I’m pacing myself,” “I feel better eating lighter,” or “I’m saving room for later.” You can still be fully present, enjoy the food, and be part of the moment in a way that works best for your body.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What types of dishes should I avoid at barbecues?
Although no foods are completely off limits unless you are allergic, there are some barbecue foods you should limit when on a GLP-1. Greasy, fried, very fatty, spicy, and highly acidic foods should be limited, since they can worsen nausea, reflux, and that overly full feeling (1). It often helps to skip the heavy sides and go easy on large portions of high fat or processed meats, and instead build your plate around lean protein and lighter, more balanced options.
Are burgers and hot dogs okay to eat on GLP-1?
Yes, you can eat burgers and hot dogs on a GLP-1, but they are best in smaller portions and with lighter toppings. These meats tend to be higher in fat, which may be harder to tolerate. A simpler version, like a smaller burger, leaner patty, veggie burger, or fewer add-ons, is usually easier on digestion than a large, greasy cookout meal.
How does summer affect GLP-1 side effects?
Summer heat can make GLP-1 side effects feel worse because these medications can reduce thirst and appetite while also causing nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, all of which can increase dehydration risk (9, 12). In hot weather, staying ahead on fluids matters more than usual, since dehydration can also intensify dizziness and GI symptoms.
Can you drink beer or mixed drinks on GLP-1?
For most people, moderate alcohol intake is usually possible on a GLP-1, but alcohol can worsen nausea, dehydration, and blood sugar swings, especially if you are not eating much (8). Beer and sweet mixed drinks are often less ideal choices because they contain significant calories and sugar. If you do choose to drink alcohol on a GLP-1, stick to one to two glasses at most and alternate with water.
Bottom Line
If you’re on a GLP-1 medication this summer, there’s no need to avoid cookouts or barbecues. With a few simple strategies, you can enjoy all the social events the season brings without derailing your progress.
Success is about feeling comfortable, hydrated, and confident, not eating perfectly. Over the course of the season, consistency matters far more than any one meal, plate, or dessert.
Trust your fullness cues, keep portions flexible, and keep communication simple when needed, whether that’s taking a smaller serving or choosing water first. You can also use tools like GLP-1 Support inside MyFitnessPal, to better understand which foods, schedules, and timing help you feel your best.
Memorial Day weekend signals the unofficial start of summer, and for many people, that means the first Memorial Day cookout of the season.
It’s the first backyard gathering of the season—the grill heating up, a table filling with sides, and people outside with plates in hand.
And whether you’re hosting the cookout or showing up as a guest, it can help to have a simple strategy for navigating the spread while still supporting your health goals.
Here’s how to approach a Memorial Day BBQ
Memorial Day weekend signals the unofficial start of summer, and for many people, that means the first Memorial Day cookout of the season.
It’s the first backyard gathering of the season—the grill heating up, a table filling with sides, and people outside with plates in hand.
And whether you’re hosting the cookout or showing up as a guest, it can help to have a simple strategy for navigating the spread while still supporting your health goals.
Here’s how to approach a Memorial Day BBQ with balance in mind.
Start With Lean Protein for Healthy Grilling
At most BBQs, the protein is the centerpiece of the meal. Starting there can make everything else easier.
Protein supports satiety and helps keep meals satisfying, which can be especially helpful at gatherings where food is available for hours (1).
Some BBQ-friendly options include:
Grilled chicken breast (or thighs for a more budget-friendly flavorful option)
Turkey burgers (often an affordable choice when feeding a crowd)
Shrimp skewers
Salmon fillets
Lean beef burgers
If you’re hosting, these proteins are easy to grill in batches. And if you’re attending, look for whichever protein option is available and build the rest of your plate around it.
“When you start a BBQ meal with a protein source, it naturally helps the meal feel more satisfying and balanced,” says Emily Sullivan, RD, MyFitnessPal dietitian.
Simple marinades with olive oil, citrus, herbs, or garlic can add plenty of flavor without needing heavy sauces.
Put Vegetables on the Grill
The grill isn’t just for burgers and chicken.
Vegetables cook beautifully over open heat, developing caramelized edges and smoky flavor that makes them just as appealing as the main dish.
Good grilling options include:
Zucchini and summer squash
Bell peppers
Mushrooms
Asparagus
Corn on the cob
Tomatoes
Onion wedges
Toss vegetables lightly with oil and seasoning before grilling, or place them on skewers for easy cooking.
“Vegetables contribute fiber, vitamins, and minerals that support overall health while adding color and variety to the table (2),” notes Sullivan.
BBQ spreads usually include several side dishes, and that’s part of the fun. Many of these classic sides are also simple and affordable to prepare for a crowd, which is one reason they show up at so many cookouts.
For your plate, rather than sampling a little of everything, choose two sides intentionally: one hearty option and one lighter, produce choice.
Hearty sides might include:
Potato salad
Pasta salad
Baked beans (a classic, budget-friendly BBQ staple)
Chips and dip
Fresh sides might include:
Cucumber or tomato salad
Coleslaw
Watermelon
Mixed greens
“Pairing your favorite BBQ side with fiber-rich foods like vegetables, fruit, or beans can help make the meal more satisfying overall (3),” adds Sullivan.
This approach keeps the meal enjoyable without feeling like you’re skipping the foods you came to enjoy.
Build a Balanced Plate
At a buffet-style BBQ, building your plate intentionally can make the biggest difference.
A simple guideline is to aim for a mix of:
Protein
Vegetables or fruit
One or two sides you enjoy
Extras like sauces, buns, and dips absolutely count toward your overall nutrition, so if you’re tracking meals in MyFitnessPal, remember to log them along with the rest of your plate.
Most importantly, remember that one holiday meal doesn’t define your habits.
Healthy Grilling Tips for Memorial Day
Grilling is a Memorial Day tradition, but some people wonder whether grilled meat is healthy. The concern comes from compounds that can form when meat is cooked at very high temperatures.
Two of these compounds, heterocyclic amines (HCAs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), can develop when proteins react to high heat or when fat drips onto flames and creates smoke that sticks to the meat (4).
In very high amounts, these compounds have been shown to cause cancer in animal studies, though typical exposure from grilling is much lower (4).
Fortunately, a few simple grilling habits can help reduce the formation of these compounds:
Choose lean cuts of meat. Leaner options like chicken breast, fish, and turkey produce fewer fat drippings, which can reduce smoke and PAHs while cooking (5,6).
Marinate meat before grilling. Marinades, especially those with acidic ingredients and herbs, can significantly reduce HCA formation (6,7,8).
Flip meat frequently. Turning meat more often can help prevent burning and limit the formation of HCAs (9).
Avoid heavy charring. Remove blackened portions and avoid overcooking meats as these can increase HCA levels (4,10).
Use moderate heat or indirect grilling. Keeping food slightly farther from direct flames can reduce smoke exposure and PAHs (6,5,9).
Adding fruits and vegetables to the grill is another easy strategy. They don’t produce HCAs and provide fiber, vitamins, and beneficial plant compounds that support overall health (11).
According to Sullivan, “grilling can absolutely be part of a healthy eating pattern, especially when you include grilled vegetables with proteins and use the right techniques.”
Yes. Grilled proteins, vegetables, and balanced sides can easily be part of a nutritious eating pattern. The key is focusing on variety, portion balance, and grilling techniques rather than avoiding certain foods altogether.
What are the healthiest foods to grill?
Lean proteins like chicken, fish, turkey burgers, and shrimp are good options. Vegetables such as zucchini, peppers, onion, and corn also work well on the grill and provide fiber and nutrients.
Should I track a cookout meal?
That depends on your personal goals. You may find it helpful to log meals in MyFitnessPal throughout the day, including at the cookout to stay mindful of your habits, while others prefer to simply enjoy the day and return to their routine afterward.
Is charcoal grilling bad for you?
Not necessarily. The bigger concern is very high-heat cooking and heavy charring, which can create compounds like HCAs and PAHs. Using moderate heat, marinating meat, and avoiding blackened portions can help reduce those risks (4,6,10).
Bottom Line
Memorial Day BBQs are about gathering, celebrating the start of summer, and sharing a meal outdoors.
Whether you’re firing up the grill or filling your plate as a guest, a few simple strategies can help you enjoy the holiday while still supporting your health goals. Start with protein, add grilled vegetables, and choose your sides intentionally to build a balanced plate.
And if you’re curious how your meal fits into your overall habits, MyFitnessPal can offer an easy way to stay mindful without taking away from the moment.
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Arthur Getz Born, Passaic, New Jersey, 1913; died, 1996. NYer work: 1938 -1988. Primarily a cover artist, he had one cartoon published: March 15, 1958. (You might say his career was a mirror image of George Price’s, who was one of the most prolific cartoonists, with over 1200 published, and one cover). According to the official Getz website, he was the most prolific of all New Yorker cover artists, having 213 appear during the fifty years he contributed to the magazine. The official Getz website, containing his biography.
