TENNESSEE - As the holiday season unfolds, 16 Tennessee Lottery players are basking in extra sparkle and joy after winning prizes ranging from $500 to $1 million this month through the VIP Rewards "Play It Again!" drawing program. One of the big winners lives right here in Rutherford County.

In Murfreesboro, local resident and retired nurse Linda Y. was stunned when she heard she'd won $500,000, exclaiming, "I think I'm going to faint … thank goodness I'm sitting down!" Telling her about the winnings was Lottery President and CEO Rebecca Paul. When Ms. Paul told her about the $500-grand, Linda further said, “I’m over the moon!” The VIP Rewards program not only brings joy to winners but also adds value to non-winning tickets, encouraging responsible disposal and deterring litter.

“The whole family will have a great Christmas!” Frank P. of Hixson, TN told Ms. Paul with the lottery when claiming his $200,000 prize. Frank, who has two children and three grandchildren, won by entering a non-winning White Hot 7’s ticket into the online program.

Yvette W. from Elizabethton, who won an incredible $500,000, had an extra reason to celebrate as she received the life-changing news on her birthday. Overwhelmed with joy, Yvette shared her plans to pay off her house with the unexpected windfall. “Wow! I can’t believe it! What a great birthday!” she said

About the Tennessee Education Lottery Corporation: Operating solely from the revenue generated by its product sales, the Tennessee Education Lottery Corporation has, since January 20, 2004, raised over $7 billion to fund designated education programs. These initiatives include college grants, scholarships, Drive to 55 initiatives, and after-school programs. Apart from benefiting education, players have won over $19.5 billion in prizes, while Lottery retailers have earned more than $1.8 billion in commissions. For more information on VIP Rewards, Play It Again!, and a complete list of drawing winners, visit tnviprewards.com