How long have you been in business?

The Bali Hai has been in the Ham/Baumann Family 70 years. Tom Ham’s Lighthouse opened in 1971. Unfortunately, Tom Ham passed in November of 1973. I became part of a management team and subsequently married Susie Ham. Together we ran both restaurants for many years. Fast forward, we now have all four of our children, Grant, Jessica, Tom and Andy in management positions! We have long term leases with the Port of San Diego. We are not going anywhere!

What do you love most about what you do?

There is much to love about my job. I get to spend the best of times with guests. We are blessed with two beautiful properties but are truly blessed to be woven in the fabric of so many families lives. Great loyal customers spend every special occasion with us. We ”make memories” on a regular basis.

What’s one thing you’d like locals to know about your business or how you serve the community?

Living and working in the same community offers many opportunities to give back, sometimes there is just not enough time, talent and treasure. I was one of the first business members of Pt. Loma Association. (It was called Pt. Loma Village Beautiful.) I eventually went on to serve as President for two terms and I hosted the monthly board meetings at the Bali Hai for years. I’ve been a proud member of the Pt. Loma Optimist Club since 1977, served as President in 1987. I am currently on the Pt. Loma Optimist Foundation Board. I still look forward to my turn putting up the flags on Rosecrans St. I served as President of the Greater Shelter Island Association for many years and have been and still serve as the Chairman and President of the Annual San Diego Bay Christmas Parade of Lights. (2025 is the 55th Annual Parade of Lights). Also, I am a member of the Pt. Loma Assembly.

How has being part of the Point Loma Association helped you or your business?

Being a member of the PLA has provided many opportunities to meet neighbors and build relationships. I believe relationships are the key to success in both business and life.

What’s one thing you’re proud of that you’ve accomplished?

Over the years I have employed countless young people from Pt. Loma. I’m beyond proud of how many shy youngsters we’ve employed who learned to make eye contact, smile and serve their neighbors. Currently, I have a young woman, who started as a shy hostess at 16 years old, she just graduated Law School with honors and she is still working with us!

What’s a lesson you’ve learned the hard way in business?

One can’t do it alone, it takes a team!

What’s your go-to way to recharge after a long day?

Family, Padres, Aztec basketball, wine.