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'Band
of Brothers' aids friend in need By Rhonda Westfall They're not driving back Nazi troops in a final push along the Western Front, but Matt Hutton and his 'Band of Brothers' are displaying courage, self-sacrifice and camaraderie in a very real battle against a deadly foe - ALS. Matt, 34, was diagnosed this past November with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, most commonly known as Lou Gehrig's Disease. The motor neuron disease is a progressive chronic disease of nerves coming from the spinal cord that causes muscle weakness and wasting. While the lifelong St. Johns resident and his family and many friends are still reeling from the blow that neurologists at the University of Michigan Hospital delivered Nov. 20, they're not about to let ALS pin them to the mat. The network of 'Brothers' is rallying in support of their SJHS classmate, planning a benefit dinner for March 15 and assisting Matt and his wife, Tami, and their four children in any way possible. "Matt's been there for me every time I've asked," said Jeff Falor, a friend of Matt's since early childhood and an "adopted" member of sorts into the Hutton family. "He'd never ask for help himself, but our intention is to be there for him. "Physically, emotionally and mentally, Matt's a strong person - he means the world to me." That sentiment about the skilled carpenter who is well-known for his construction and renovation work on area buildings is repeated over and over by his friends and family members. The fact that ALS so vigorously attacks the motor skills which the craftsman relies on to earn a livelihood makes the assault of the disease particularly heart-wrenching. "Matt loves being a carpenter - he loves seeing things take shape with his hands," said his father, Tom Hutton, a retired teacher from St. Johns Public Schools who has worked side-by-side with his son in recent years. "When we got the confirmed diagnosis about ALS down at U-M, he just looked at us and said, 'All I ever wanted to do was be a carpenter.' Not being able to work now like he wants to is a very hard thing to deal with." Another childhood friend, Brian Barnett, who is also a professional carpenter has a special empathy for the toll ALS is taking. "It just tears you up inside talking to him, knowing he can't do what he loves," Barnett said of the talented man whose nearby home in Greenbush Township was lovingly constructed with his own hands. "Matt's an 80-hour-a-week guy - he'd work a regular job and then come home and work at his house until well beyond midnight. He's a super, super carpenter - the stuff he and his dad do is just beautiful." Ironically, his chosen profession which is intricately linked to top-notch motor skills, may have initially masked some early warning signs of ALS. When he finally relented and went to a doctor this past fall, he thought the problem he was having with weakness in his hands and arms could be carpal tunnel - a result of years of repetitive motion from hammering and other carpentry actions. "His left arm in particular was giving him trouble - he couldn't buckle his carpenter belt," Matt's mother, Mary Hutton, said, adding that a gradual decline in his ability to perform what were for him routine tasks prompted an appointment in early October with a neurologist. "He was surprised when they initially told him he might have had a slight stroke, or be showing signs of the onset of multiple sclerosis. At the time, that seemed devastating - now, given the confirmed diagnosis of ALS, a stroke or even MS wouldn't have been as bad." Mary, who retired two years ago after working for 38 years as a Registered Nurse, knows better than anyone what her son is facing. She also is well aware that like his three siblings - Jon, Ben and Joe - and his close circle of friends, Matt has a reservoir of spirit and determination. Two 'good buddies' have an intimate knowledge of their friend's upbeat attitude and positive outlook on life. "Matt's a mountain of a man - nothing but muscle and bone with hands like a sledge hammer," said Tim Cleaver, another 'life-long' friend and classmate whose dad, Jim, served as wrestling coach - and mentor - for both men. "We were neighbors when we were little, and Matt's birthday is the day before mine, so our families always celebrated together. He's a pretty shy person in a group - but get him with some friends and…well, we've all had a lot of fun together." Tom Ladisky, who along with his wife, Kim, are helping coordinate plans for the March 15 benefit at Smith Hall in St. Johns, has similar 'untold' tales about youthful experiences with his friend. "We've just always gotten along, particularly in high school - not necessarily because of classroom work," Ladisky said, recalling more than one day at school that was shortened - or simply non-existent - when the lure of the outdoors was too overpowering to resist. "We enjoyed hunting together, and that friendship has always remained. We're really all just a bunch of friends who are trying to help Matt in whatever way we can." Right now a top priority of that assistance is collecting items and donations for a silent auction that is a focal point of the fund-raising event that also includes dinner, a dance and 50-50 raffle. Individuals or organizations who want to donate an item for the auction - or make a monetary contribution - can contact Tom or Kim Ladisky at (989) 224-1958 (evenings), or (989) 224-3474 (days). Tickets for the dinner and dance are $20 each, available from any of event organizers and at Smith Oil & Propane, Ye Old Roadhouse restaurant, and Beaufore's Barber Shop. Persons who are not able to attend the benefit may send checks made payable to "Matt Hutton Family Account", 6901 N. Krepps Road, Elsie, Mich., 48831. Matt's 'Band of Brothers' are positive that many other friends will step up and show their support. "He's been there for all of us at one time or another," Falor said. "He'd be the first one to show up to help and the last one to leave - now it's our turn." Local bands stage Jan. 2 concert for Hutton family
A pair of local bands are working together to ring in the New Year in a manner that provides entertainment and benefits an area family at the same time. The Last Broadcast, whose EP Matthew pays tribute to Matt Hutton, will headline the Jan. 2 show that was arranged by another local group, Olivine. Also playing at the show that begins at 7 p.m. in the cafeteria at St. Johns High School are Pictures of Annie, a group from Tecumseh, and Hope for August from Jackson. Admission is $5. The title track of The Last Broadcast’s debut EP was written by St. Johns resident Dan Gleason, who grew up nearby the home of Matt’s parents, Tom and Mary Hutton. The connection between the two families forms a basis for the composition of Matthew. "I wrote the song Matthew based on something Matthew’s father (Tom Hutton) had once told my dad," Gleason said. "Mr. Hutton said that Matthew is, and has always been his ‘rock,’ the one person who he could always depend on. Hearing that really moved me." Hutton, 34, was diagnosed with ALS, commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease, in November 2002. His family and friends are continuing to deal with the reality of the motor neuron disease that results in chronic progressive muscle weakness and wasting. "I feel more connected to this song than any other I’ve ever written -- the line ‘such a strong, strong heart’ always gives me chills, and I hope it does the same for our listeners," Gleason said. Members of The Last Broadcast along with Gleason are Connor Germain, Ryan Pavlovivh, Jacob Wolfgang and Corban Lott. The band officially released Matthew at a Dec. 2 concert on the campus of Central Michigan University. The EP is available locally at the Depot Art Center, Treasure Chest, and Chart Hits Video. A portion of proceeds from the sale of the E.P. is being donated to the Hutton family. Information on Matthew is available at the band’s website, www.thelastbroadcast.net or at Selah Records, www.selah-records.com Coordinating the Jan. 2 show are members of the St. Johns band, Olivine. The group of local performers includes Zach Webb, Matthew Dedyne, Mitch Pero and Andy Keilen. Information on the band is available at olivinemusic.com Pictures of Annie includes Justin Curth, Ashleigh Raczkowski and Bryan Debus. Information is available at picturesofannie.com. Members of Hope for August, a female-fronted rock group, are Kristina Rubritius, Andrew Volk, Shane Pitmon and Andrew Carpenter. Information is available at hopeforaugust.com Mattew EP is available locally Inquiries by a number of area residents has prompted the band, The Last Broadcast, to make its debut EP, Matthew, available for sale at area establishments. The title of track is written in honor of St. Johns resident, Matt Hutton, who is continuing a battle with Lou GehrigÕs Disease. A portion of proceeds from the sale of the EP are being donated to the Hutton family. Matthew is currently available at The Depot Art Center and Treasure Chest, both located in downtown St. Jons; Chart Hits Video in the Southgate Plaza; and the Family Bible House, 1114 N. Lansing St., St. Johns. Cost is $5. The band also hopes to perform a benefit concert this spring. Area businesses or organizations that are interested in donating a performance site for the concert should email The Last Broadcast via sean@selah-records.com
Matthew: By Rhonda Westfall photos courtesy of Cole Cornwell and Dan Heathman Tragic situations can sometimes prompt creations of great beauty.That’s the case for Matthew, the debut E.P. of The Last Broadcast -- the title track is written for Matt Hutton, a St. Johns area resident who is battling amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, more commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease.The band officially released the E.P. at a Dec. 2 concert on the campus of Central Michigan University. Proceeds from the sale of the E.P. are being donated to the Hutton family. "When I first heard the news of my neighbor being diagnosed with Lou Gehrig’s disease, my first reaction was one of confusion," Dan Gleason, lead singer and songwriter for The Last Broadcast said in an interview on the band’s website."I had lived next to Matthew all my life and he was such a strong person. I have always admired him, especially for his commitment to building things from the ground up with his own hands, and when someone you’ve known for so long is threatened like this you feel helpless, and that’s exactly how I felt."Hutton, 34, was diagnosed with ALS in November 2002. His family and friends are continuing to deal with the reality of the motor neuron disease that results in chronic progressive muscle weakness and wasting. That family connection played a big part in the composition of Matthew."I wrote the song Matthew based on something Matthew’s father (Tom Hutton) had once told my dad," Gleason said. "Mr. Hutton said that Matthew is, and has always been his ‘rock,’ the one person who he could always depend on. Hearing that really moved me. "I feel more connected to this song than any other I’ve ever written -- the line ‘such a strong, strong heart’ always gives me chills, and I hope it does the same for our listeners."Members of The Last Broadcast along with Gleason are Connor Germain, Ryan Pavlovivh, Jacob Wolfgang and Corban Lott. They are all committed to the Matthew project. "Our hope is to raise some money for Matt’s family as well as awareness of ALS," Gleason said. "Hopefully we can lift the spirits of all who contend with this awful disease, especially Matthew’s family, who has always been supportive of me and whatever I do. I pray that we are doing the best we can."Information on Matthew is available at the band’s website, www.thelastbroadcast.net or at Selah Records, www.selah-records.com Hutton golf benefit entry deadline is Aug. 15 Golfing in the summer sunshine will be fun and provide an opportunity to support a local family at the Matt Hutton Children’s Golf Benefit, Aug. 23 at North Star Golf Course. Friends of Matt Hutton and his family are organizing the four-person team scramble that includes 18 holes of golf with a cart and a meal; cost is $55 per person or $220 per team. A shotgun start at 8:30 a.m., begins the fun event that features an assortment of prizes for contests like closest to the pin, longest drive, longest putt and other link challenges. A 50-50 raffle is planned along with on-going raffles for other prize items. Donations are still being accepted for hole sponsorships and prize sponsorships. Cory Chaffee is assisting in securing sponsorship donations; Troy Tatroe and Jeff Saylor are coordinating the benefit for their friend and classmate. Proceeds from the benefit will be placed in a separate fund for each of the Hutton children. The entry deadline for teams is Aug. 15. Contact Tatroe at (989) 227-8703; checks may be mailed to the Matt Hutton Children’s Golf Benefit in care of Tatroe, 6803 N. Krepps Road, Elsie, Mich., 48831. Hutton family is 'overwhelmed' by support at
benefit By Rhonda Westfall Music, food, and lots and lots of laughter. That's what organizers had hoped for in planning a benefit dinner for their friend, Matt Hutton, and it's exactly what they got. "There were cars parked all over the place - so many people - it was just fantastic," said Tom Ladisky, one of the 'Band of Brothers' who helped coordinate the March 15 event that was held at Smith Hall in St. Johns. 'Hut' and his family - wife, Tami, and their four children, Madison, Emma, Logan and Haley - spent much of the evening visiting with friends, several of whom were former St. Johns High School classmates who made the trip back home to attend the benefit. Matt, 34, was diagnosed this past November with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, most commonly known as Lou Gehrig's Disease. The motor neuron disease is a progressive chronic disease of nerves coming from the spinal cord that causes muscle weakness and wasting. Organizers planned the dinner and silent auction to assist the Hutton family with travel and other expenses that will be incurred as Matt battles the disease. "The whole community just pulled together for this," Ladisky said. "This is just a great place with wonderful people." An account remains in place for additional contributions. For information call the Ladisky's at home, (989) 224-1958, or work, (989) 224-3474. Checks may be made payable to "Matt Hutton Family Account," and sent to 6901 N. Krepps Road, Elsie, Mich., 48831. Following is an open letter to the community from the Hutton family. "Matt and Tami Hutton and children, Madison, Logan, Emma and Haley thank their friends and relatives from the bottom of our hearts. "The response to our recent fundraiser was overwhelming in its generosity and outpouring of love to our family. The kindness of this community will never be forgotten and always cherished. "The success of the fundraiser was due to the cooperation of local businesses and the 'Band of Brothers' committee who coordinated and freely offered their expertise and resources. Special thanks to Chuck DeSander and his family who provided a delicious and memorable meal. "What could have been difficult became a wonderful celebration of life enjoyed by 500 people in attendance. God bless you all. You will walk this road with us and we will never feel alone." Cruise, hot tub, jewelry - benefit for Matt Hutton
has it all By Rhonda Westfall When the friends of St. Johns High School alumnus Matt Hutton decided to plan a benefit to aid in his battle with Lou Gehrig's Disease, they knew support would be forthcoming from lots and lots of people - but no one expected donations would include things like a seven-day cruise, hot tub and jewelry. Or, maybe they did. Friends like Tom and Kim Ladisky, whose home has been transformed into a 'storage unit' for the March 15 benefit dinner that features a silent auction, have first-hand knowledge of the special place that 'Hut' has in the hearts and minds of so many other classmates and acquaintances. "It's been overwhelming," Kim said of the multitude of items that have been donated to date. Matt, 34, was diagnosed this past November with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, most commonly known as Lou Gehrig's Disease. The motor neuron disease is a progressive chronic disease of nerves coming from the spinal cord that causes muscle weakness and wasting. A network of friends is coordinating the benefit which will help assist Matt and his wife, Tami, and their four children, Madison, Emma, Logan and Haley. Among the other 'big ticket' silent auction items are a PSE compound bow, variety of oak tables, 5,000 watt generator, quilts, Sheraton Hotel overnight/dinner gift package, picnic tables - and 1,000 pounds of mint compost. So many gift certificates for products and services and other items have been donated that organizers plan to hold on-going raffle drawings throughout the night. "We have lots and lots of items - and so have lots and lots to give away," Kim said, adding that a 50-50 cash drawing is also planned in addition to the numerous other raffle drawings. Tickets are $20 each for the buffet dinner that begins at 5 p.m. at Smith Hall in St. Johns; set-ups and snacks will be provided for the dance that is also part of the event. Bids on the silent auction items will be accepted from 5 to 8 p.m., with winners announced during the remainder of the evening. There's still time for individuals or businesses to donate items for the silent auction and raffle; call the Ladisky's at home, (989) 224-1958, or work, (989) 224-3474. Persons who cannot attend the benefit but would like to make a cash donation may make checks payable to "Matt Hutton Family Account," 6901 N. Krepps Road, Elsie, Mich., 48831. Tickets for the benefit dinner are available at Smith Oil & Propane, The Roadhouse and Beaufore's Barber Shop.
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