2024.41

Found in Collection

To view this recording, scroll down to the bottom of this entry and click the blue web link. This video was created by Saugatuck-Douglas History Center volunteers or was donated to the Center in a good faith effort to preserve local history. If you feel this content should not be available to the public — or have additional information that will add context to this interview — please contact the SDHC Archives at [email protected].

YouTube summary: Nov 4, 2025 PUMPERNICKELS Larry Botz (b.1948) was interviewed on March 23, 2010, by John Shack. Larry Botz, originally from Taylor, Michigan, transitioned from a successful career in the hotel industry to opening a restaurant in Saugatuck. After a series of personal tragedies, including the death of his daughter, Botz and his wife decided to step back from the fast-paced corporate world and purchase a building in Saugatuck. They renovated it and opened a restaurant, eventually to accommodate 310 people. Botz discusses the rewarding experience of employing and mentoring young people, many of whom have gone on to successful careers. The unique service model at the restaurant, where orders are taken at the counter and food is delivered by runners, has proven effective in managing labor shortages and maintaining high service quality. Larry reflects on the evolution of Saugatuck as a tourist destination and his personal connection to the area. The early days of the restaurant are fondly remembered, with a focus on the supportive community and memorable characters. The restaurant faced challenges like the Gulf War, but always rebounded due to the town’s resilience and tourist appeal. Consistent nostalgia and lack of restrictive ordinances have contributed to the town’s charm and success. The building has a rich history, with many characters and businesses having occupied it over the years. Larry shares anecdotes about the building’s past, including the eccentric Helen Metzger, who lived upstairs and hired Ted Kimball to change her light bulbs monthly. Larry also discusses the building’s transformation into a successful eatery, highlighting the contributions of various individuals and businesses to its success. The building once served as a jewelry store, pool hall, ice cream parlor, meat market, and grocery store. It still houses a cookie factory and apartments.

YouTube summary (generated by AI): Nov 4, 2025 PUMPERNICKELS Larry Botz (b.1948) was interviewed on March 23, 2010, by John Shack. Larry Botz, originally from Taylor, Michigan, transitioned from a successful career in the hotel industry to opening a restaurant in Saugatuck. After a series of personal tragedies, including the death of his daughter, Botz and his wife decided to step back from the fast-paced corporate world and purchase a building in Saugatuck. They renovated it and opened a restaurant, eventually to accommodate 310 people. Botz discusses the rewarding experience of employing and mentoring young people, many of whom have gone on to successful careers. The unique service model at the restaurant, where orders are taken at the counter and food is delivered by runners, has proven effective in managing labor shortages and maintaining high service quality. Larry reflects on the evolution of Saugatuck as a tourist destination and his personal connection to the area. The early days of the restaurant are fondly remembered, with a focus on the supportive community and memorable characters. The restaurant faced challenges like the Gulf War, but always rebounded due to the town’s resilience and tourist appeal. Consistent nostalgia and lack of restrictive ordinances have contributed to the town’s charm and success. The building has a rich history, with many characters and businesses having occupied it over the years. Larry shares anecdotes about the building’s past, including the eccentric Helen Metzger, who lived upstairs and hired Ted Kimball to change her light bulbs monthly. Larry also discusses the building’s transformation into a successful eatery, highlighting the contributions of various individuals and businesses to its success. The building once served as a jewelry store, pool hall, ice cream parlor, meat market, and grocery store. It still houses a cookie factory and apartments.