'Thanks for the memories.' NY Lottery icon Yolanda Vega retires and Twitter reacts
Yolanda Vega, the well-known and popular host of the New York state Lottery drawings, is retiring after 32 years.
The New York Lottery announced her retirement in a Tweet on Tuesday.
“The Yolanda Vega, our iconic Draw Team member, has retired after an incredible 32 years. We truly hit the jackpot by having her as a part of the New York Lottery family,” the tweet said.
Besides being the host of the drawings, she also presented checks in-person to lotto winners across New York, including making several appearances in Rochester through the years.
The New York Lottery did not say who would replace Vega.
Yolanda Vega retires and Twitter reacts
After news of her retirement was released, Twitter lit up with well-wishes and memories from fans.
I fondly remember tuning in and hearing "I'm Yolaaaaaanda Vega and here's..." at 11pm. Ms. Vega is a New York institution just like the legends, @SamChampion, @lloyd_lindsay, and @winsjuliet. #newyorkcity
— 🅽🆈🅼🅾🅾🆂🅸 (@NYmooSI) January 26, 2022
Every night during Jeopardy and Wheel of Fortune on Channel 7, she announces the winning numbers with so much excitement! Thanks for the memories Yolanda! We'll miss you. ❤️
— Antigone Hughes (@AntigoneNYC) January 26, 2022
Congratulations Yolanda Vega on your retirement! I met her at LePage’s Market (Cohoes,NY) when she gave a million dollars to a couple. She was very friendly! Best of luck & well wishes to you in your future!! Enjoy retirement!!
— Amy Modesti (@ALMArtPhoto) January 26, 2022
Enjoy yourself thank you for all the wonderful years ❤ lottery drawing will never be the same without you god bless you Yolanda Vega 🌹👑❤
— Doodyj2014@gmail.com Judy (@doodyj2014) January 26, 2022
Years ago when I was sick, my mom went to the grocery store and Yolanda Vega was there doing a promotional event. In the early days of cell phones, my mom called me at home and I answered to hear “it’s YOLANDA Vega and I hope you feel better!”
— Alexander Marion (@alexandermarion) January 26, 2022
This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Yolanda Vega retires from NY Lottery after 32 years. Twitter reacts
