A way of coping with a tragic loss has turned into a wonderful tribute for the family of the late Betty Travis.

The Hamburg Reporter’s strongest advocate and one of the community’s most recognizable residents, Betty passed away unexpectedly in 2023.

Left to mourn her passing were Amy Baker, daughter; Emily, Alyson and Braden Barker, grandchildren; Layken and Daisy, great grandchildren; and Aaron Connell, father to Daisy and Layken.

Betty’s children and grandchildren have always loved cooking, trying new things, baking up whatever sounded good, and having fun in the kitchen.

Through it all, Betty was their biggest supporter. She never missed a chance to try what they cooked up and she always gave them her honest feedback. She believed they were great cooks and always told them they should share their delicious food with more people.

When Betty passed away in June of 2023, it hit the family hard. To keep their minds busy, they started a sourdough starter, something simple that needed a little attention every day. It became a small comfort during a tough time.

Today, that starter has begun to fulfill Betty’s dream for them as they’ve opened a farm stand in Hamburg to share the goodies that she used to taste test. They’ve all worked hard on this project and it has been a special way to keep Betty close and share something they’ve always loved doing together.

At the stand, you’ll find a rotating variety of sourdough-based baked goods — from classic boule loaves and sandwich breads to bagels, cookies, and loaves with unique inclusions (something different each day they’re open).

They also have dry mixes, granola and even their own dehydrated sourdough starter to give patrons their own baking journey at home.

The baked goods at the farm stands won’t be the end of this story.

“This is just the beginning for us, as we grow, we plan to add handmade craft items like earrings, shirts, bags, and even woodworking pieces to the stand. We think she’d be proud and would be telling everyone in town to come by and try a bite. We’re excited to keep building on what we’ve started – creating, sharing, and doing what we love all in memory and honor of our mom/grandma Betty!”

Submitted by Teresa Crecelius.