Jacks to 'pay their fortune forward'

The Muskegon Lumberjacks’ players are very aware of how fortunate they are to play in a premier league like the United States Hockey League. That is why they are eager to pay their fortune forward next Monday and Tuesday.

After ringing bells for the Salvation Army at several locations Monday night, the Lumberjacks’ players and coaches will accompany underprivileged children from the area in shopping at the Meijer Superstore, 3267 Henry St., on Tuesday at 6:30 p.m.

Meijer will be donating individual $100 gift cards to 25 kids, and the Jacks will help them from the time they start filling their carts until they load up the groceries to bring them home.

“What started out as a simple request to get our players out in the community has turned into an opportunity to reach out and positively impact 25 young people and their families,” Lumberjacks president Tim Taylor said. “We’re grateful for the chance to work with Meijer on such a great initiative.”

On Monday night from 7-9 p.m., the Lumberjacks will be ringing bells for the Salvation Army at numerous locations throughout the city. The players will pair up, and you can spot them at the Plumbs Market locations on Apple Avenue and West Sherman Boulevard; Kmart on Apple Avenue; the Walgreens locations on Apple Avenue, Holton Road and East Sherman Boulevard; Sam’s Club on East Sherman Boulevard; the Lakes Mall, and Walmart on Henry Street. The players will also be handing out Salvation Army pins

“When you have the given ability and opportunity to play sports and be in the public eye, there needs to be a realization that it’s about something bigger than yourself,” Lumberjacks head coach Kevin Patrick said. “You need to carry yourself and be a role model. To whom much is given, much is expected.”