Food Castle Store Owner and Residents Delighted as Jackpot Brings Joy to Mid-Michigan
GRAND BLANC TWP., Mich. – The small community of Grand Blanc Township is buzzing with excitement as news broke that the winning ticket for Monday night’s staggering $842 million Powerball jackpot was sold at the local Food Castle. This marks the second-largest jackpot ever won in Michigan, with a cash value lump sum amounting to an impressive $425.2 million.
The identity of the fortunate winner remains a mystery, awaiting contact with the Lottery officials. The last Michigan resident to claim a Powerball jackpot was back in 2020, with a Waterford resident securing $70 million.
TV5 caught up with Bill Nannoshi, the owner of Food Castle, a 30-year-old establishment where the winning ticket was purchased. Nannoshi expressed his delight, stating, “Usually, you hear about stuff like that happening in different states, so it’s great. It’s great for this community. Grand Blanc is an awesome place to work and live in.”
The winner, yet to come forward, is required to submit an online claim and visit the Lottery Headquarters in downtown Lansing to collect the life-changing prize.
Regular customers at Food Castle were quick to share their excitement. Susie, a salesclerk, expressed her hope that the winner is a local resident, saying, “I’m hoping and praying that it’s one of our regular customers and they’ll be able to use it in a positive way.”
Juan, a resident and customer, acknowledged the positive impact on the town, stating, “It’s nice. I guess I blew it. It wasn’t my ticket and I play here all the time, so congratulations to whoever won. It’s nice to know somebody here in town won.”
Acting Michigan Lottery Commissioner, Jessica Weare, highlighted the significance of such jackpots, stating, “A lucky Michigan Lottery player woke up to life-changing news this morning after winning the $842.4 million Powerball jackpot on New Year’s Day! Jackpots like this also help local businesses, and ticket sales benefit Michigan’s public schools.”
Food Castle, the retailer that sold the winning ticket, is set to receive a $50,000 bonus commission. The Powerball jackpot run, which commenced in October, contributes to the Lottery’s mission of supporting public education in Michigan.
Last month, the Lottery announced a contribution of more than $1.3 billion to the School Aid Fund for Fiscal Year 2023, marking the fifth consecutive year of substantial support for schools. Everyone at the Lottery is thrilled to celebrate a Powerball jackpot winner in Michigan, extending hearty congratulations to the fortunate recipient!