By KATHY STEPHENSON, Salt Lake Tribune

Flip through the television channels and it's clear that America is mad about makeovers. This Thanksgiving, consider new takes on some old side dishes.

We asked local culinary figures to help. Each one was assigned a holiday classic -- stuffing, sweet potatoes, green beans and cranberry sauce -- and told to give it an update. Here are the results:

STUFFING:

It's one sandwich that bursts with many contrasting flavors.

The Vietnamese-style hero sandwich -- called banh mi -- is a melding of a crusty baguette, seasoned meats, crisp Asian vegetables and cooling herbs. It's been called "French and Asian fusion at its best" and even "cheesesteak sandwich meets spring rolls."

In addition to new classes, textbooks and homework, the new academic year also signals the return of after-school sports.

The long hours away from home for practices and games can create a nutritional challenge for young athletes who need to be fueled and hydrated to perform their best.

All eyes are on China these days, as Beijing hosts the Summer Olympics.

For those of us watching the competition from the couch, celebrating Asian culture can be as simple as preparing a bowl of noodles.

In honor of National Pie Day on Jan. 23, here are some pie facts you might want to know:

Whether it is in the form of a cake, a house or a little bald man, gingerbread is one of the staples of the Christmas season.