Pelican State News

This past summer, the Louisiana Lottery selected 10 finalists from over 55,000 entries in its Golden Nugget Second-chance Drawings. These finalists won a VIP Prize Package trip to the Golden Nugget Lake Charles Hotel and Casino from March 7-9. The package included suite accommodations for two nights, a $100 food credit, and $1,000 spending cash. The highlight of the event was a chance to win up to $1 million during a Grand Prize Event.

John Connolly of New Orleans emerged as the top prize winner, taking home $100,000 during the final round. "The Lottery aims to give players added value and excitement with their ticket purchase," said Lottery President Rose Hudson. She emphasized that offering these VIP trips is one way they are enhancing player experiences this year.

The event required each finalist to wear protective gear and break open gem “nuggets” with a prospector’s pick to reveal numbers corresponding to prize envelopes. Blaise Dempster of Destrehan, Daniel Burton of Benton, Tracy Holmes of Baton Rouge, and Emmit Brown Jr. of Baton Rouge each won $500 in the first two rounds. Coby Williams of Breaux Bridge, Eloise Horton of Baton Rouge, and Ronald Wilkinson of Maurepas won $1,000 each. Mary Miller of Mansura and Linda Granger of Eunice secured $10,000 prizes.

Connolly advanced to the final round but missed out on the $1 million prize when his gold envelopes did not match golden nugget symbols. Despite this, he plans to buy a new truck with his winnings.

Lottery ticket purchasers must be at least 21 years old. Scratch-off tickets must be claimed within 90 days after game closure. For those who may have gambling issues or know someone who does, assistance is available at 1-877-770-7867.

Golden Nugget trademarks are owned by GNLV LLC and its affiliates. The Louisiana Lottery Corporation administers all related games and drawings independently from Golden Nugget Lake Charles LLC.