A couple that lives just outside Washington, Georgia says they have the winning Mega Millions ticket, which is worth $130 million.
James F. Jones said that his wife, Margaret, bought the ticket on Tuesday. She played the same numbers she has played for years, he said.
"We're just glad the good Lord gave it to us and we plan to put it to good use," Margaret Jones said Wednesday night from her home as her family gathered to celebrate.
The Joneses, who own an automobile repair shop in Washington, said they were not sure what they would do with the winnings, which they had not yet officially claimed with the Georgia Lottery office.
But James Jones, who is active with the Shriners, did say he hopes to build a place for the local Shriners to meet and wants to raise money for Shriners hospitals.
"This is the second-largest (prize) in Georgia history," said Tandi Reddick, a spokeswoman for the Georgia Lottery.
The highest prize, $150 million, was given out in 2003 to a soldier, Staff Sgt. Stephen Tirrell Moore, who was stationed in South Korea and played the lottery while visiting home in Fitzgerald.
In the meantime, James Jones is anxious about how winning the Mega Millions jackpot will change he and his wife's lives.
"We just don't know," he said. "I don't know what it is we're facing."
The Mega Millions lottery began in May 2002. States participating in the game are: Georgia, Virginia, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Texas and Washington.
"We just don't know," he said. "I don't know what it is we're facing." this is not a cool move. he should have hired a lawyer etc...better not go down the whittaker (sp) route.
Yeah I saw them on good morning america today and he said he was going to continue working because he needed something to do! The Misses took the cash value which she said comes to around 52 Million. And I'm sitting there wondering why in the world would you go on national T.V.? I mean get me a lawyer and I'm gonna make "Real" sure NO-BODY!!! knows who I am.
This guy is due a lot of problems now talking smack without actually claiming it. I am sure every deadbeat will be after him now.
We just don't know," he said. "I don't know what it is we're facing."
How's that for starters......................
Yeah I saw them on good morning america today and he said he was going to continue working because he needed something to do! The Misses took the cash value which she said comes to around 52 Million. And I'm sitting there wondering why in the world would you go on national T.V.? I mean get me a lawyer and I'm gonna make "Real" sure NO-BODY!!! knows who I am.
I'm glad she wants the CASH, what's with these stupid people in CA?
Actually, she won with a Quick Pick -- not the numbers she "played for years."
updated news story