Fort Washington man wins first top prize on Diamonds & Gold scratch-off
Fourteen years ago, the best and brightest dream that one Prince George’s County resident had was to immigrate to the United States, live with family members and prosper. Today, the lucky man from the Philippines has achieved those dreams and one more – winning the Lottery!
The Fort Washington resident claimed a $50,000 top prize on a Diamonds & Gold Doubler scratch-off, the first top-prize winner on the new $5 scratch-off that debuted March 27.
The lucky man’s journey to the Lottery Winner’s Circle began with his family. He and his siblings were the first to come to America. They were joined by his wife and two sons, who arrived one by one, and his youngest son went on to play a key role in his big scratch-off win.
The 50-year-old property maintenance worker sent his youngest son to purchase a Mega Millions ticket from Fort Washington Liquors. While waiting in line, the 21-year-old spotted the new Diamonds & Gold scratch-off. Knowing his father likes trying the new instant ticket games, he opted to buy the scratch-off rather than the $1 Mega Millions ticket.
The father scratched off the instant ticket later that day, revealing a star emblem over a $50,000 prize. He rushed home to share news of his good fortune with his family.
The lucky man plans to realize yet another dream later this year by officially taking the Oath of Allegiance for U.S. citizenship at a naturalization ceremony. He plans to spend a portion of the $50,000 prize on a family vacation to see the Philippines once more.
The win also is also a boon for the lucky retailer. Fort Washington Liquors located at 10200 Old Fort Road in Fort Washington will receive a $500 bonus from the Lottery for selling the top-prize scratch-off in the Diamonds & Gold Doubler game. There are still plenty of prizes awaiting players in this game including seven more $50,000 top prizes and thousands of others ranging from $5 to $5,000.