New state-wide lottery coming to Arkansas

Wednesday night’s $320-million Powerball jackpot, expected by lottery officials to grow to $400-million if no one wins Wednesday night, has Little Rock lotto players excited.

“If I could hit for $320-million, you’ll see a lot of millionaires in the Watson family,” says lottery player Claudie Watson.

Watson wants to win so he can help his family.

“I couldn’t even attempt to spend this much with myself. I’m an old man. But, my kids, grandkids, great-grandkids, they’ll remember me,” says Watson.

Now, the Arkansas Lottery Commission is banking on attracting players, like Watson, to the new Natural State Jackpot. It will be sold only in Arkansas six nights a week starting August 27, offering jackpots of at least $25,000. 

“I think the players will play both games. It’s a little bit different. It’s a smaller jackpot game. Your odds are better, however, the jackpot’s not as large,” says Arkansas Lottery Director Bishop Woosley.

Woosley thinks the dollar-a-ticket game should add $3-million in scholarship money every year for Arkansas students, and Watson likes that idea.

“With $320-million, I might even contribute to my high school and college,” says Watson.

Powerball numbers for 8/15

06, 27, 46, 51, 56, 21