Lonnie Poland
Candidate for Vermont House of Representatives
Milton/Georgia (Chittenden/Franklin District)
I'm running for VT State Representative in the Chittenden-Franklin district to bring my years of leadership, collaboration, and community-building to our legislative process. With a background in healthcare and founding Experience Yoga, I've seen firsthand the challenges our community faces—mental health, addiction, and rising property taxes. I'm committed to practical solutions that foster health, education, and safety for all Vermonters. Together, let's build a Vermont that works for everyone.
Prioritizing Health, Happiness, and Safety for Every Vermonter
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A Bit About Me...
I have been an engaged resident of Milton for 38 years. Following in my father's footsteps, I joined the Vermont Air National Guard, where I met my husband, David, in the Medical Clinic. While serving, I earned a Bachelor's degree in Physical Therapy from the University of Vermont and dedicated 25 years to the UVM Medical Center Rehabilitation Department.
David and I raised our two sons in Milton, where they attended the Milton Town School District. I owned and operated Street Toys from 1999 to 2003 and founded Experience Yoga in 2010, offering services in my home studio and at Footworks Studio of Dance.
My community work includes serving as Chair of the Milton Skate Club, working with at-risk youth, and creating safe spaces; serving as Project Manager for the Milton Outdoor Performance Center; and as Board President of the Vermont Reiki Association, expanding membership and regional coordinators. I also produced and starred in the independent feature-length comedy film Made in Vermont, which premiered to a sold-out crowd in 2019.
Throughout my life, I have prioritized happiness, health, and safety. My career in physical therapy has enhanced the well-being of individuals and families, while my work with Street Toys and Experience Yoga has fostered inclusive community spaces. My involvement in community projects reflects a commitment to building connections and serving others, driving my passion for ensuring everyone, regardless of wealth, has the opportunity to thrive.
Why I'm Running
I am running for VT State Representative in the Chittenden-Franklin district to bring my leadership, collaboration, and community-building skills to our legislative process. My life’s work has been dedicated to service, and this is the next step in that commitment.
Since founding Experience Yoga in 2010 and throughout my healthcare career, I have focused on health, well-being, and resilience. I have supported individuals facing mental health issues, addiction, and poverty, reinforcing my commitment to compassionate solutions.
I aim to integrate holistic health into policy-making, addressing root causes without adding financial strain. This includes tackling rising property taxes, investing in our schools, supporting our teachers, and creating opportunities for our youth. By prioritizing practical solutions, we can maintain public schools as community cornerstones and enhance workforce development in our tech centers, which are pivotal in driving innovation and preparing our future workforce.
Safety is paramount in our community. I am committed to ensuring secure neighborhoods, well-funded emergency services, and effective crime prevention measures.
In these times of division, unity is crucial. I prioritize happiness, health, educational opportunity, and safety for all Vermonters, striving to build a Vermont that works for everyone.