New Jersey – The second New Jersey Lottery jackpot-winning Powerball ticket from the August 7 draw was claimed at Lottery Headquarters on August 22 by Mario Scarnici from Monmouth Junction. Joined by his wife and family, Scarnici presented and claimed the ticket. The winning ticket annuity value was more than $149 million. Opting for cash, Scarnici will receive almost $62 million after Federal and State tax withholding, some of which he distributed to his two adult sons.
Scarnici, his wife and family were thrilled by the win but did not share any plans for spending any of their newfound wealth. He purchased his ticket at Super Stop n Shop, 24 Summerfield Blvd. & Rt. 522, South Brunswick in Middlesex County, as he has done daily for years. "I go in the store and buy a newspaper and lottery tickets," shared Scarnici, a long-time lottery fan. The winning numbers were one of three wagers he placed for the Powerball game that day, all of which were Quick Picks.
Carole Hedinger, Executive Director of the Lottery had the opportunity to congratulate the winners personally. "One of the most rewarding aspects of my job is to meet the Lottery winners. Most of whom are hardworking, average people. Their lives are then dramatically changed by the win removing any burden of debt from their lives. On behalf of the Lottery, I wish the Scarnici Family well."