Lottery News

WALLINGFORD, Conn. — July 23, 2025 — As the popular saying goes: happy wife, happy winner. At least, that’s how Joe and Barbara Freeman of Meriden, CT would put it.

Joe says he’s been a CT Lottery player for more than 40 years and was shocked when he checked his Powerball ticket after the July 12, 2025 drawing.

He usually plays his lucky numbers, but it was his wife Barbara’s system of choosing numbers that matched five of the six winning numbers — four white balls and the Powerball. They were one number short of winning the jackpot.

Because Joe purchased the Power Play option, his $50,000 win instantly became $100,000.

“I was checking the ticket and checked it again. Then checked it again. Then checked it again…” recalled Joe, before telling his wife the news. “It’s still sinking in.”

The ticket was purchased at the Wheels Convenience Store #174 on Old Stratford Rd. in Shelton.

The happy couple says they’ve been married for 25 years, and the win doesn’t change a thing. (Joe was quick to point out that he immediately gave the prize check to his wife.)

The couple plans to use the winnings to pay off bills and travel. Congratulations to them!

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Overall odds of Powerball are 1 in 24.9. Jackpot odds 1 in 292,201,338. Purchasers must be 18 or older. Help is available for problem gambling. Call (888) 789-7777 or visit ccpg.org.

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About the Connecticut Lottery Corporation:
The Connecticut Lottery Corporation (CLC) is a quasi-public state agency committed to generating revenue for Connecticut in accordance with the highest standards of public policy and social responsibility.

In fiscal year 2024 alone, players won more than $1 billion in prizes. At the same time, the Connecticut Lottery Corporation returned approximately $387 million to our state’s General Fund — providing critical dollars for essential services like education, public health, public safety, and libraries that strengthen communities across Connecticut. 

Since 1972, the Lottery has contributed more than $11 billion to support our state’s programs and awarded more than $23 billion to lucky winners. That’s a track record of meaningful impact — both for the people who play and the people who benefit from the revenue it generates. 

Players must be 18 or older to purchase lottery tickets, and at least 21 to place sports wagers. For help with a gambling problem, call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org.

To learn more, visit any CT Lottery retailer, go to ctlottery.org, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and X (@ctlottery), or call (860) 713-2700. You can also download our apps here.