Crowds flock to State Fair to buy Powerball tickets

WEST ALLIS (WITI) -- The jackpot for Wednesday, August 7th's Powerball drawing has reached $425 million -- the fourth biggest prize in any U.S. lottery.

People have been flooding stores to buy their tickets, but there's also a big group of dreamers hoping to cash-in at the Wisconsin State Fair.

Large crowds were found at the lottery booth inside the Exposition Center on Wednesday afternoon.

“We've never had this big a jackpot at the State Fair. It'd be just great, even awesome, if someone bought their ticket here and won,” said Wisconsin Lottery Director Mike Edmonds.

He says the booth has always been a popular spot at the fair, but since no one won the Powerball jackpot last Saturday, foot traffic has been non-stop.

“I think we're going to see it pick up today. It's pretty early and we have a lot of people coming through,” said Edmonds.

There were many Powerball regulars buying their tickets.

“Everyday. I play every single game you can possibly play in Wisconsin,” said Wendy Luedke.

“Someone's gotta win. You got to be in it to win it, so I play,” said Connie Hering.

Others were there trying to push their luck again. For Walter Schneider, the State Fair is a special spot.

“About five years ago, I won a hundred dollars at the State Fair on a scratch off ticket,” said Schneider.

From the State Fair to convenience stores, people can't get enough of the Powerball. The jackpot is equal to about $244 million as a cash payout.

“I bought six tickets. I'm hoping to win the lottery, and if I do, I'm just going to shop, shop, shop, shop,” said Lorraine Ewing.

They are also hoping luck is on their side, even though the odds of winning are 1 in 175 million.

“You'd get struck by lightning twice before you're going to win the lottery, but it could be it. Still willing to take your chances, exactly,” said Sean Gariarty.

The Powerball drawing will take place at 9:59 p.m. Wednesday.