CANDID INTERVIEW WITH DR. HENRY J. PON

Dr. Pon, how long have you been a dentist?
I have been in private practice since 1984. The first year and a half was spent associating with a couple of older dentists to gain some experience.

Have you always been a dentist?
Before entering dental school I obtained a degree in Chemistry at the University of Alberta and was working at the Alberta Research Council and Syncrude. Before that I had a number of jobs while I was still in school but most of them were in restaurants.

What influenced you to become a dentist?
Working in restaurants gave me the opportunity to meet and work with a lot of different people. Working in the Chemistry field created a void and I knew that I could not continue in a work environment that wasn't more involved with the public. Dentistry was a logical answer because I've always had a desire to work in the health field, and I enjoyed doing things with my hands.

What do you like most about working here?
The people. We have a family practice and that means lots of children. I have always gotten along well with my young patients

What do you do when you are not working?
I enjoy a number of extracurricular activities. The one that comes to mind right now is skiing because it is something that I can do with my children - Lauren is 15 and Jared is 13. I also play Volleyball on a co-ed team. Other activities include squash, tennis, cycling, rollerblading, seadooing, camping, and a bit of golf when I have to. I've also done a bit of snowboarding but I don't think I'll ever trade in my skis.

Sounds like you are pretty active, what are your kids into?
Over the years they have done many things including skiing, piano, soccer, gymnastics, figure skating, snowboarding, and the list goes on… Right now though, Lauren has found a love for sing and dance. She is currently taking voice lessons from Alberta College and dance from the Riverbend Dance Academy. Jared will never tire of video games but he is now playing hockey for SWAT and is taking guitar lessons from Alberta College. Although they do not downhill ski race competitively any more both still enjoy recreational skiing in the mountains.

Where do you like to ski?
Marmot Basin in Jasper is a great family ski hill. It where I learned to ski as well as my kids. Lauren and Jared have fond racing memories in Marmot. I also enjoy Lake Louise and Sunshine. Out of this immediate area, I love Kirkwood in Lake Tahoe.

What kind of music do you like?
I enjoy a wide range of music but most of it seems to stem from pop and rock and roll.

How's about restaurant recommendations?
Two of my favorite restaurants are Furosato for sushi, and Cafe Puccini in Whitemud Crossing. Both are smaller restaurants with excellent food. Jack's Grill has always been a favorite too.

How is the amateur skating that was living with you?
Katie has moved out and is currently living with her fiancée and studying pre med at the U of A. Although she does not skate competitively anymore she still likes to lace up the skates once in a while.

Is it true that you have been Go-Kart racing?
Yes some friends and I have been out to Stratotech raceway and it was a blast. The guys out there are just great!

How's about vacation hot spots?
My kids love Disneyland and I've always had an affinity for Mickey Mouse. Hawaii is great for a relaxing holiday with the opportunity to do lots if you like. I like New York City because there is never a shortage of things to see and do there.

Do you have a question for Dr. Pon? If so e-mail him.