Mega Millions Prize is ‘in the Bag' for Illinois Player

Drawing Date: 12/24/2013

January 31, 2014 - When Elizabeth Parker discovered she had won $1million, she knew exactly what she would do with her winnings. "I'll be very responsible with this money but I am going to splurge on one thing… I've always wanted a designer handbag!" The lucky Lombard resident became $1million richer Christmas Eve when her $1 Quick Pick ticket matched the first five numbers - 23 - 34 - 53 - 58 - 73- (02) - in the Tuesday  December 24 Mega Millions drawing.

Parker was at a gas station when she decided to cash in some winning Illinois Lottery instant tickets. "I had won a total of $25 on scratch tickets I received as Christmas gifts."   As she took the tickets out of her wallet, she noticed her Mega Millions ticket. She checked it using the self-service scanner and the message 'file a claim' appeared on the screen. "I asked the clerk to confirm my prize amount and I couldn't believe it!" Parker immediately signed the back of her ticket and returned it to her non-designer handbag!

A regular Mega Millions player, Parker said she buys one $1 Quick Pick ticket every week.  Her plans for the windfall include paying off student loans and investing. She bought her winning ticket at Jewel, 1177 South Main Street in Lombard. The retailer received a $10,000 bonus, 1 percent of the prize amount, for selling the winning ticket.