Powerball Jackpot Draws Hopeful Crowds

CHARLOTTE, NC — In North Carolina you’re looking at $509 million, in South Carolina, $497 million.

“Because I want the money, that’s the only reason. I don’t normally play, but I’m going to give it a shot this time,” said Mooresville resident Joel Kendrick.

It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to guess why people packed a Mooresville gas station. Two dollars a pop, hoping for a one in 292 million chance to get crazy rich. It’s the same reason folks in Matthews headed out, even during rush hour.

“My wife’s got four, I got three at home, and I’m going to get those three right there, see them,” said Matthews resident Don Nolan.

“First of all charity for people, then we’ll start thinking about what next,” said Matthews resident Kurt Vyas.

Hopeful winners stood in a long line at a 7-Eleven on Providence Road in South Charlotte, hoping to change their lives forever.

“One point whatever billion dollars, I could do a lot with that. That’s a lot of Happy Meals for my daughter,” said Henry Bryant of South Charlotte.

“Just leaving the country and investing, just giving my family members a lump sum and leaving. Nobody knows where I am,” said Althiea Cunningham of South Charlotte.

Everyone thinks they have the winning ticket, but one thing everyone agrees on.

“You won’t win unless you play,” said Kendrick.

Here’s some breakdown of numbers for you: 26 cents of every dollar spent on tickets in North Carolina goes towards education.

Last year, about $55 million went to Mecklenburg County, compared to about $9 million in Iredell County.