The niece of “Mr. Jack Daniels” stands in for his ceremonial Powerball winner photo. |
After waiting years to score a big win, a loyal Maryland Lottery jackpot player from Baltimore waited an additional nine days to claim his $50,000 Powerball prize.
A retired accountant who prefers to go by the name “Mr. Jack Daniels,” the 71-year-old bought a single $2 ticket for the Dec. 1 Powerball drawing. He matched four of five regular numbers (10, 11, 55 and 58) plus the Powerball, 26, to secure the $50,000 third-tier prize. Then he waited.
“I was trying to figure out what I should do and how to spend it,” he told Lottery officials. His decision: buy some Christmas gifts, share some of the prize with his family and “hold some in case of an emergency.”
The winner’s niece accompanied him to Maryland Lottery headquarters in Baltimore. She also stood in for him for a winner’s photo with his giant check.
“Mr. Jack Daniels,” a nickname he chose for its friendly qualities, has played Lottery games for years. He tried Pick 3 and Pick 4, but gave up on those in favor of chasing the big money in the jackpot games. Until now, however, his largest prizes ranged from $15 to $20. The no-nonsense player continues to enjoy Mega Millions, Multi-Match and, of course, Powerball, and often goes with the quick-pick option.
“I take my chances,” he said. One thing he won’t take a chance on is the menu for his celebration dinner. The numbers fan will select a restaurant with his perennial favorites of “steak or crab cake.”
Looking for a lucky Lottery retailer where you can buy a Powerball ticket or two for the Dec. 12 drawing? Try “Mr. Jack Daniels’ ” lucky location — Royal Farms #169 at 6201 Pulaski Highway in Baltimore.