By Suzy Kridner
skridner@hometownnewsol.com
EDGEWATER - James Mahoney of Edgewater says he plans to bank the $1 million he won in the Billion Dollar Blockbuster Scratch-off game.
Actually, he took $650,000 from the Florida Lottery as a one-time, lump-sum payment after scratching off the $1 million ticket.
When he answered the phone at his home Monday, he said he was putting the money in the bank. Mahoney, who said he has five children, added he has no other plans for the money right now.
He was upset the state of Florida released his name. In New York state, he said, winners can request to keep their names private.
Mr. Mahoney purchased the $20 ticket at the Publix supermarket at 2970 S. Ridgewood Ave., Edgewater.
According to lottery officials, he is the 46th winner to claim $1 million in the Billion Dollar scratch-off game.
There are still 74 $1 million prizes remaining.
The Billion Dollar game also started with 10 prizes of $10 million each and six of them remain. There are other rewards in smaller amounts.