North Carolina Man Strikes Gold with $120,000 Online Lottery Win
Michael Standish of Zebulon, North Carolina, is celebrating a life-changing win after hitting a $120,000 jackpot in the Cash 5 lottery. The lucky winner, visibly elated, shared his reaction: “I was happy, I was smiling,” Standish said. “It felt great.”
Standish purchased his winning $1 Quick Pick ticket for the Thursday drawing at Privettes Mini Mart on Old U.S. 64 East in Zebulon. The odds of matching all five numbers in Cash 5 are a challenging 1 in 962,598, making Standish’s win particularly remarkable.
A Feeling That His Time Was Coming
Interestingly, Standish wasn’t a complete stranger to near misses. He revealed he had come close to winning before, matching four of the five numbers on three separate occasions. “I was thinking recently, ‘I’m about due,’” he said, suggesting a premonition of good fortune. This highlights the enduring appeal of the online lottery – the possibility, however slim, of a significant payout.
Standish claimed his prize on Monday at lottery headquarters in Raleigh, taking home $86,412 after federal and state tax withholdings. He plans to use his winnings responsibly, focusing on paying off bills and bolstering his retirement savings.
Playing the Online Lottery: Convenience and Accessibility
The North Carolina Education Lottery offers players multiple ways to participate. Cash 5 is one of six games available for purchase at retail locations, but increasingly, players are turning to the convenience of online lottery options. Tickets can be purchased through the lottery’s official website or the NC Lottery Official Mobile App, offering a seamless and accessible gaming experience.
As of Tuesday, the Cash 5 jackpot stands at $140,000, presenting another opportunity for players to try their luck. You can learn more about the North Carolina Education Lottery and responsible gaming practices at their official website: North Carolina Education Lottery.
Controversy and Concerns
Recent comments, such as those from Floyd P., have raised concerns about fairness and potential biases in the lottery system. These allegations, specifically regarding a perceived favouritism towards Wake County players, underscore the importance of transparency and rigorous oversight in lottery operations. While the NCEL maintains the integrity of its games, ongoing scrutiny and investigation are crucial to maintaining public trust.
Remember, the online lottery, like all forms of gambling, should be approached responsibly. If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling addiction, resources are available. Please visit North Carolina Problem Gambling Help Line for support.
Disclaimer: Odds to win a prize and the top prize vary based on the game or promotion. Jackpot values are estimated. See game or promotion pages for more detail.
