Issue date: Nov. 13-15, 1998

TV host B. Smith offers several easy tips -- including how create a unique tabletop, and a favorite family recipe for corn pudding.
Photo by Matthew Jordan Smith for USA WEEKEND.

The best Thanksgiving meal you ever had
Familiar, yes. Boring, no. We scouted recipes from award-winning chefs to bring you an exciting new holiday menu that zings with updated flavors and textures. We also include a shopping list, a schedule, dinner conversation starters, and ideas for decor and presentation to keep your Thanksgiving holiday on track.

Schedule: T-Day and counting
Shopping list: The pantry staples and an itemized list for our meal.
Decor: A new Thanksgiving table with restauranteur and TV host B. Smith (left).
Gadgets: The newest and coolest.
Turkey tidbits: Turkey Day trivia, conversation starters, and meals at the millennium.
Recipes, recipes, recipes
Wine: What goes with this special menu.
"Eat Smart" for the holidays: Add spice to your pantry. Report on almonds and alcohol calories.