Ralph Artz knows Den Helder like no other. Together with his wife Sandra and their three sons, Jesse, Senne, and Jelte, he has built a wonderful life here. As a born Jutter, Ralph has always had a special bond with the City by the Sea. Not only as a resident, but also as an entrepreneur. “The fact that I had the Helderse flag placed on my bike, rather than the Dutch one, already conveys how proud I am.”
It all started in Julianadorp, where Ralph lived until he was sixteen. His part-time job as a newspaper delivery boy took him from Huisduinen to De Kooy, which gave him the opportunity to discover the beauty of Den Helder. When his parents moved to the city center, he was introduced to city life for the first time. “Living and working in this city, I think that is a wonderful combination. Precisely because you have peace, space, and nature all around you.”
As the owner of Ralph's Bikeworld (formerly Halfords Den Helder), Ralph has always had a passion for cycling. Although he has little time to go out himself, he enjoys the freedom, relaxation, and exertion that cycling can offer to others. His family is closely connected to the business, with two of his sons working part-time. Nevertheless, he encourages them to follow their own paths. “Doing what your passion lies in, that is important. That is what I try to instill in them.”
The family previously lived in Julianadorp but moved to Statenhoff in De Schooten last year. This decision stemmed from a desire to live closer to the business and to invest in a home for the future. The new house, a beautiful semi-detached property by the water, exceeded all expectations. “We really live fantastically there. A beautiful large south-facing garden, a carport next door, and everything within easy reach. I really never want to leave here.” The fact that everything is on the ground floor means that Ralph and Sandra can live here for their entire lives. “Where people normally have a garage, we have an extra bathroom and bedroom. It really is a dream place for us.”
As secretary of the Helderse City Centre Business Association, Ralph sees the positive changes that Den Helder is undergoing. As an entrepreneur, he notices the urban developments firsthand. According to him, the revamping of the city centre is a clear sign of progress. “I think we should count ourselves lucky with parties like Zeestad and the housing association, who are committed to the physical transformation of our city. Simply wonderful things are happening in Den Helder.”
Naturally, urban developments also bring with them some inconvenience. Ralph: “There is no result without effort. When you know how beautiful it will become, the noise is worth it.” He is therefore very optimistic about the flourishing future of his city. “A lot has already improved, and you can hear that reflected in the feedback. People from outside the city think it is beautiful here.”
Ralph therefore encourages the residents of Den Helder to head out for themselves. “Tourists go to harbors, beaches, and museums. They are enthusiastic. Go play tourist in your own city for a change. There really is plenty to do!”
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