Meanwhile, back at the (Pizza) Ranch...

Muskegon Lumberjacks fans got an opportunity to interact with their favorite players Monday night at Pizza Ranch on Sherman Blvd. While there is still one week to go in the 2011-12 USHL regular season, Muskegon will finish the year on the road, so it was probably the final chance to say hello to Lumberjacks skaters, at least for a few months.

Jacks supporters did not let this appearance pass them by, as fans young and old filled Pizza Ranch from 6 to 8 p.m. to get autographs from and interact with this year's squad. Of course, team mascot Ollie was in the house, too!

At times this has been a difficult season, one of transition for your Lumberjacks. But receiving inspiration and encouragement from our loyal followers helps everyone in the organization, most notably the players, stay positive and work to improve.

Thanks to the folks at Pizza Ranch for providing a venue for the Lumberjacks to express their gratitude to those who want to see the team succeed, both on the ice and off. I think I speak for the entire club when I say that last night's event will help refresh the players for one final road trip!

Also, Community Relations Director Sarah Lambert, along with fellow front office team members Alicia Roberts and Andrea Clancy, deserve kudos for setting up the event and making sure everything at Pizza Ranch went smoothly.

Speaking of game action, the Jacks provided several exciting moments last weekend, when they pushed league-leading Green Bay and defending Clark Cup champion Dubuque over the course of two days. Listen below for great goals from Ryan Lomberg, Jon Padulo and Tyler Heinonen, as heard on 92.5 The Outlaw:

4-6 to 4-7 Weekend Mix by Matt Gajtka

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One last thing: with the Stanley Cup Playoffs beginning this week, I'd like to see if anyone has any predictions for this spring's first-round series. Post any thoughts or premonitions you may have in the comments below or on our Facebook wall.

Twitter is always an option, too! Send any tweets to @MuskegonJacks. Have fun watching the hockey...it's the best time of the year for puck fans.