BRUNSWICK COUNTY — A Southport man won $217,608 from a Carolina Cash 5 drawing, according to a notice from the N.C. Education Lottery.
Peter Miller, a 20-year veteran of the U.S. Navy, says he’s using the winnings to enjoy retirement and share with his five grandchildren. He picked up the winning ticket at the Murphy Express on North Howe Street, while buying gas. Miller claimed his winnings at lottery headquarters on Thursday.
Miller purchased three Carolina Cash 5 “Quick Pick” tickets for the Dec. 21, 2016 drawing. The next morning he looked up the results on his computer and discovered he had one of two winning tickets. The $435,216 jackpot was split between Miller and Norman Rogers, of Weaverville, in Buncombe County. Rogers collected his winnings on Dec. 28.
Miller is originally from Cherry Hill, New Jersey and served 20 years in the Navy before working at Lockheed Martin for 25 years. He and his wife have been living in Southport since he retired in 2010.
“I’m going to keep playing,” Miller said as he claimed his prize money. “I don’t think the lottery has a memory. Every day is a new day.”
Miller said he plays the lottery for more than a chance to win.
“I’m glad the money goes to education, scholarships and new buildings,” he said.
After required state and federal withholdings, he got a check for $151,240.
For more information about the North Carolina Education Lottery visit its website.
