Monroe Man is Louisiana Lotterys First Millionaire of 2010

Phillip Gossett of Monroe became the first Louisiana Lottery millionaire of 2010 when he claimed a $1 million Powerball prize from the Feb. 3 drawing at Lottery headquarters yesterday.

"Excited doesn't even cover it, man," exclaimed the 36-year-old Gossett after learning he had won a million dollars. "My boss said he was going to have to give me mouth-to-mouth if I'd have kept on going. . . words can't describe it."

Gossett's ticket matched all five white balls, but missed the red Powerball number, to win $200,000. By adding the Power Play option to his ticket, Gossett's winnings were automatically multiplied by five, bringing his total prize to $1 million.  His ticket was a quick-pick, meaning his numbers were randomly generated by the Lottery's system.

For an additional $1, Powerball players can purchase the Power Play option to multiply any nonjackpot Powerball prize up to five times.  In 2009, there were six $1 million Powerball with Power Play winning tickets sold in Louisiana. 

Gossett received $700,000 after federal and state taxes were withheld. The winning numbers were 17-22-36-37-52 and the Powerball number was 24. 

Gossett said he plans to use his winnings to set up college funds for his children, purchase a new home and invest what remains.

He purchased his winning ticket from Sterlington U Pak It on Highway 2 in Sterlington. The store will receive a bonus of $10,000, or 1 percent of the prize, for selling the winning ticket.

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.