'Shocked' Frankfort Resident Wins $1 Million Illinois Lottery Prize

Frankfort resident Marie Berlongieri said she was “absolutely shocked” to discover she had won the lottery.  “I get so excited when I win $10, I never imagined I would win a prize like this!”  The lucky lottery player won $1million when the numbers on her Quick Pick ticket matched the first five numbers – 13 – 14 - 19 - 31 - 38 - (25) - in the Saturday Jan. 18 Powerball  drawing.

Berlongieri has lived in Frankfort for 15 years.  She is married with three children and four grandchildren.  Her plans for the windfall include sharing with family, starting college funds for her grandchildren, and traveling.  “I’d love to go on a trip to Italy,” she said. 

The winning ticket was purchased at BP, 9595 West Lincoln Highway in Frankfort.  “Every Sunday on my way home from church I stop there to buy my Powerball ticket,” Berlongieri said.  The retailer will receive a $10,000 bonus, 1 percent of the prize amount, for selling the winning ticket. 

Powerball drawings take place Wednesday and Saturday nights at 9:59 p.m.  For more information, please visit www.illinoislottery.com.