A Missouri state employee from Russellville claimed a $10,000 Missouri Lottery prize on Jan. 12. Jacqueline Morrow, 40, bought a “Red Hot & Wild 7’s” Scratchers ticket the night before at Eagle Stop, 3505 Missouri Blvd., in Jefferson City. 

“I knew exactly what gas station I was going to, and exactly what ticket I wanted,” began Morrow.

She also knew which clerk she wanted to sell her the ticket. She scratched it in her car and went back in to have the clerk verify her win. Morrow said she kept the winning ticket in a safe until she could claim it the next day.

“I just was flabbergasted,” she recalled. “I’m still a little overwhelmed.

This is the first big win for Morrow, who suggested it might be a sign.

“I do play Scratchers a little more than I should,” she offered. “I’m sure I’ll still scratch, but not near like I have been. I’ll still play Powerball, though.” 

Morrow, who has two teenage boys, said the money would pay off one car and help cover car insurance.

“It’s a blessing and a very, very needed windfall for me,” she said. “It came at the perfect time. I think it is wonderful.”

Morrow said “Red Hot & Wild 7’s” is one of her favorite games, because “seven has always been a lucky number for me.”