Locals say how they would spend the Powerball jackpot

Powerball’s estimated jackpot is quickly nearing one billion and the lottery hysteria is setting in.

People will begin to flock to the nearest convenience store for a chance at the jackpot, but TCB Stop n’ Geaux comptroller Samantha Belsome says some people play even when the winnings are low.

“We actually see a lot of repeat customers daily that come play the lottery daily. There are multiple drawings a week, so they actually come in and buy new tickets each time,” Belsome said. “We see a lot of people who aren’t regulars or don’t buy lottery tickets daily or weekly come in when they hear about the lottery being a lot higher, so we do see a lot of different faces at that time. When it gets higher.”

These regulars may be on to something. You’re more likely to become president than win the Powerball according to The Motley Fool – but you have a 1 in 10,000 chance to win the daily Mississippi Cash 4.

While some people are testing their luck daily, others are only trying when the numbers get high. Either way, everyone has their reason for buying a lottery ticket.

Their answers may be surprising.

“I would pay off bills,” said Jessica Stone. “I would help my family, and then help those in need because there’s just not enough of the going around”

Jerry Cuevas said, “Well, we got a lot of grandkids and great-grandkids and a lot of friends that need help, and that’s what we would do is help them.”

There was one thing Jessica Stone said she would spend her winnings on selfishly.

“Maybe a new car!” she said.