Spiz: The Story of Betty Jean Howard Hammond

When Betty was encouraged in 2017 to put her memories and stories down in writing by friend Dodi Reilly, it turned into a short book and lots of photos with the help of that friend.

Grinnellian Betty Jean Howard Hammond advises the next generation to work hard and pursue their goals with determination. Reflecting on her own life, she recalls marrying at 16 to the toughest-looking boy in Beaman and building a marriage with Montie that lasted 64 years. Though it required effort and perseverance, their life together was rich with love, family, and companionship. From a young age, she took on significant responsibilities, such as preparing meals for hired workers at just 12 years old when her mother was in the hospital. She learned the value of hard work, whether it was dressing chickens, hauling 60-pound bags of seed, or feeding unexpected busloads of customers late at night at her restaurant. She and her husband lived within their means, explored various careers, and always approached their work with integrity and passion. Her advice is to find something you love and give it your best effort.

To learn why the book is titled Spiz, you will have to read it!