Lotto Jackpot is hit again!

New Orleans resident and boating enthusiast Jim Opitz became the Louisiana Lottery’s latest jackpot winner after matching all six numbers during the June 28 Lotto drawing. The Lotto jackpot was also won during the previous drawing four days earlier by a Baton Rouge resident.

“I’m still shaking” Opitz said, as he received his official winning check. “It still hasn’t hit me!” He has been playing Lotto since the game’s start in 1992.

Checking his numbers has become part of Opitz’s weekly routine. “I get into work very early,” he said, “and the first thing I do on Thursdays and Mondays is check my numbers for the Lotto drawing.” Opitz’s work schedule allowed him to make the trip to the Lottery’s headquarters in Baton Rouge where he claimed his check just a few hours after discovering he was a winner.

The winning ticket was purchased at Robert Fresh Market #131 in New Orleans, where Opitz is a regular customer. The store will receive a one-time selling bonus of $2,500 which is 1 percent of the prize.

“I immediately thought about my boat,” the 64-year-old recalled, “but I’ll put the money towards bills.” After going debt-free, Opitz said he plans to put the remainder into the bank. “Well, I might spend a little on my boat,” he added with a smile.

Opitz received $175,000 after state and federal tax withholdings. The winning numbers were 02-03-07-12-17-32.

 Lottery ticket purchasers must be at least 21 years of age. Draw-style game tickets must be claimed within 180 days of the drawing. Anyone who may have a gambling problem or friends and family of anyone with a gambling problem should call toll free 1-877-770-7867 for help.

For security purposes, the Lottery strongly encourages players to sign the back of their tickets immediately after purchasing. More information about Lotto and other jackpot winners can be found on the Lottery’s website, www.louisianalottery.com.

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