Microsoft Word document of news release

DATE: September 1, 2009
CONTACT: Karie Lowe (785) 296-5744, karie.lowe@kslottery.net

Topeka Resident Claims $200,000 Powerball Prize

TOPEKA, KAN. – A lucky Topeka resident, who wishes to remain anonymous, has claimed a $200,000 Powerball prize by matching the first five numbers in the Aug. 26 drawing. The $2 Quick Pick ticket was one number away from winning the Powerball jackpot! In fact, the Powerball number for that night’s drawing was 11 and the winner matched it, but on a different play.

“I couldn’t believe it,” said the winner. “We had the Powerball number. It was just on the wrong play. I’m so thrilled to have won $200,000, but to realize we came so close to being millionaires it makes me shake.” The Powerball jackpot for Aug. 26 was $25 million. The jackpot for this Wednesday’s drawing is $45 million.

The winning ticket was purchased at Dillons 58, located at 1400 SW Huntoon St., in Topeka the night of the drawing. The winner, however, didn’t realize she had been carrying around a $200,000 winning ticket in her purse until last Sunday.

“I checked my ticket Sunday on the Lottery’s website,” the winner explained. “When I saw that I’d matched five numbers, I was shocked. What if my purse or wallet had been stolen? I never would have known I’d won. It’s scary to think about.”

The winner, who is married and has two children, was undecided how she’d spend her prize money.