Silver Dollars & Wooden Nickels: Silver dollar-only menu this week

The Nevada Appeal's "Silver Dollar" and "Wooden Nickel" feature recognizes positive achievements from the capital region and, when warranted, usually points out others that missed the mark.

This week, however, we take a break from the steady stream of gloomy economic news and offer a silver dollar-only menu.

Silver dollar: We're already salivating over the news of two new eateries opening this summer at the Carson Mall.

Local restaurateurs Doug and Jamesa Cramer, who operate Mom & Pops Diner in downtown Carson, announced they are opening a tropical-themed restaurant called Paradise Cove.

Additionally, those familiar with the Schat's Bakery in Bishop, Calif., have visions of tasty baked goods dancing in their heads. Paul Schat's Bakery will open for business later this summer, fulfilling the wishes of the mall operator to have a bakery to compliment the other eateries brought on board recently.

Both Paul Schat's and Paradise Cove are expected to open in time for the Taste of Downtown in June.

Silver dollar: Joey Jacobsen, the 10-year-old from Minden injured last fall in a tree-cutting accident, returned home this week after four months at a children's hospital in Oakland, Calif.

The Douglas County community had rallied around the Jacobsen family, including adopting a slogan of "We believe!" that was displayed on banners and signs around Minden and Gardnerville during Joey's ongoing recovery. More than 100 well-wishers met Joey and his family when they drove up to their County Road home Wednesday. Many in the crowd were his Little League teammates and classmates from Minden Elementary.

After he was helped out of his dad Tim Jacobsen's truck and into a wheelchair, Joey waved to the crowd as his dad wheeled him up the driveway.

"Thanks for believing in me," Joey said.

Silver dollar: It's not a signal the recession is going to end anytime soon, but it was a piece of good news for potential homebuyers and those looking to refinance existing homes.

The national average rate on a 30-year, fixed-rate mortgage fell to 4.94 percent last week. It marked the first time the average had fallen below 5 percent since at least 1979.

Silver dollar: Lastly, we recommend everyone who has the chance to take advantage of one of the best reasons to live within shouting distance of the Sierra " spring skiing and snowboarding.

Abundant snow (the weather forecasters even hint that we're in for another significant spring snowfall) and the usual nice weather and sunny skies of a Sierra spring beckon snow sport enthusiasts. In keeping with this week's silver dollar-only theme, treat yourself and find a way to hit the slopes and enjoy the great outdoors.

- Do you have a suggestion for a Silver Dollar or Wooden Nickel? Send your idea to editor@nevadaappeal.com.