We are always looking for ways, at the Virginia Lottery,
to put a spotlight on deserving educators.
Each year, we run a campaign called Thank A Teacher.
So, in this campaign, we invite Virginians to thank as many public school teachers as possible.
And ultimately, we select two teachers to win a Virginia-themed vacation.
Before we go any further, I have a special guest to introduce.
My name is Kevin Hall. I am the executive director of the Lottery.
I'm really glad you gave us a few minutes to join you today, even if it can't be in person.
At the Lottery...
circumstances may have changed, but not our commitment to K-12 and to our teachers.
Especially when so many teachers
are reaching out to their students from empty classrooms, from their own kitchen counters, from their home offices.
I doubt there's a single Virginia parent today
who doesn't have an even deeper respect and appreciation for what y'all do.
So, I'm going to do a DIY drum roll.
To announce that one of our winners today is Elizabeth Flaherty.
Shut up!
*laughter*
Congratulations!
Thank you!
And now, I have another special guest
to ask if she could pop in, to wish congratulations to Ms. Flaherty.
I just want to say, good morning, everyone!
And congratulations, Elizabeth!
We are so thrilled for you!
Thank you so much!
Well, I know this is well earned!
This is fantastic, and amazing, and I don't even know what to say.
I'm speechless.
Which those of you who know me know, that never happens!
I know you're going to enjoy your special prize
and come back rested and refreshed, with new ideas for the classrooms, because that's what teachers do.
But, I also wanted to offer an additional prize.
I would love to give you a personal, very special tour of the Governor's Mansion and the grounds for you and your students.
Once we all get back online.
Oh my gosh.
Oh my gosh. That's fantastic!
Teachers rock!
And especially now.
And I just want you to know that we appreciate it,
And we are just thrilled to death that we were able to do this for you today.
It's all of us together.
And I just appreciate everybody.
And I appreciate the Lottery. This is really cool.
Thank you so much.
I don't even know what to say.
