Zachary Woman Claims $30,000 Cherry Crossword Top Prize

Judy Smith of Zachary had no idea how much money she actually won on her Cherry Crossword scratch-off ticket when she arrived at Lottery headquarters in Baton Rouge to claim her prize, but she was feeling lucky. 

Smith was shocked when she realized she won a $30,000 top prize from her Cherry Crossword scratch-off ticket.  She and several of her family members who were present immediately burst into tears and embraced one another after hearing the news. 

"I had a feeling that I had won, but I just wasn't sure," explained Smith, age 54.  "I counted up my numbers and letters about 15 times and then the store clerk told me I had to go to the Lottery office, so I knew it was something big." 

Smith shared that she chose Cherry Crossword because she loves crossword-style scratch-offs and had previously won $200 playing the game.  She purchased her top-prize winning ticket at Cracker Barrel Store #13 on Highway 19 in Zachary.

Smith plans to share her winnings with several family members and hopes to pay off her trailer.  She is also planning to help her son purchase a car.

Cherry Crossword is a $3 game that offers players the chance to win up to $30,000. The game has five top prizes remaining as of Feb. 25.

Persons must be at least 21 years of age to purchase a Lottery ticket.  Anyone who has a gambling problem or friends and family of anyone with a gambling problem are encouraged to call toll-free 1-877-770-7867. For security purposes, the Lottery strongly encourages players to sign the back of their ticket after purchasing.