Michael Boden-Baumann and his husband started Hula Pools in 2004. “I had previously worked in this field when I was younger, so when this opportunity came up, I thought it would be a great opportunity, and made a mid-life career switch,” Boden-Baumann said, noting Hula Pools is a customer-oriented business. “Our goal is to exceed our customers’ expectations. We provide weekly pool and spa cleaning and maintenance service for both private residential customers as well as commercial properties.”

New customers who mention Hula Pools’ ad in the Gay & Lesbian Times will receive half off their first month’s service. Hula Pools also offers free estimates.

Boden-Baumann said that people sometimes recognize him from his many years of bar tending in San Diego. “In my earlier days I was elected Mr. Gay North Park. Now I enjoy a quiet home life with my loving husband, Bruce,” he said.

Aside from staying busy with his business Boden-Baumann said he truly enjoys doing volunteer work. “Assisting others in need is easy, and doing something nice for a complete stranger makes you feel wonderful. I started years ago by volunteering for Mama’s Kitchen, and eventually working with Helping Hands at Being Alive San Diego, Something Special Food Pantry, and many years working with Ruth Hendricks, an amazing and inspirational woman, at Special Delivery, where I still volunteer,” he said.

Hula Pools is also involved in the San Diego GLBT community. Last year Hula Pools matched its clients’ contributions to AIDS Walk San Diego dollar-for-dollar, Boden-Baumann said. “We plan to do the same again in 2008!”